PINE NEEDLE TEA
In this episode, I will show you how to: identify, harvest, and prepare White Pine Needle Tea.
To make pine needle tea, follow these steps:
- Choose young, tender pine needles (preferably from the Eastern White Pine, as they have a milder taste). Avoid needles from pine trees labeled as toxic or unsafe for consumption.
- Rinse the needles thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Bring fresh, cold water to a boil.
- Add 1-2 loosely packed cups of pine needles to the boiling water. For a stronger flavor, use more needles; for a milder taste, use fewer.
- Reduce heat and let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain the needles out using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
- Add sweeteners or other desired ingredients, such as honey, lemon, or mint, to taste.
- Enjoy your pine needle tea while it's still warm and fresh.
