Last Updated on March 6, 2023
The ‘star’ ingredient in this starfruit, lemon, and ginger tea is Carambola (a.k.a. star fruit), which is in season during the winter months in Florida. If you’re lucky, you might even have a tree in your backyard or a neighbor who’s willing to share, but most supermarkets carry them, too.
Starfruit, Lemon, and Ginger Tea Benefits
This uniquely-shaped fruit is awesome, with flavors of white grape, apple, and even pear. This tea highlights those flavors, along with fresh ginger, lemon, orange, and honey, that result in a powerful combination during cold and flu season.
Carambola is full of vitamins C and B, along with potassium; ginger is packed with anti-inflammatory properties and soothes sore throats; lemon is high in Vitamin C, acts as a re-hydrator, and helps reduce inflammation; and raw honey has antibacterial properties. It’s all great stuff to warm you from the inside out.
Tea Recipe
Note: if the tea cools too much during the steeping process, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, after straining. You can find Starfruit at stores such as Publix or Nothing Beats Fantastic Florida Farmers Markets.
Starfruit, Lemon, and Ginger Tea
Ingredients
- 4 c. water
- 1 large Carambola
- 2” piece fresh ginger, peeled
- 1 large orange peel
- 1 lemon
- 2-3 Tb. raw honey
- Fresh mint (optional)
Instructions
- Pour water into a pot and bring to a boil.
- Remove ends of Carambola, then thinly slice and remove visible seeds.
- Thinly slice ginger and lemon; use a vegetable peeler for the orange.
- Once the water boils, remove from heat and add Carambola, ginger, lemon, and orange peel. Allow to steep, uncovered, about 20 minutes, then stir in the honey.
- Strain into a cup and enjoy!
Check out another Authentic Florida drink recipe: