I got to come across butterfly pea flower tea in my recent trip to Bangkok and was attracted by the color of the tea when it was served to me. The butterfly pea flower tea is blue in color and not only that the tea is appealing, it have an important substance “Anthocyanin”, water-soluble vacuolar pigments that may appear red, purple, or blue depending on the pH.The benefits of butterfly pea flower tea includes nourish eyes, treat opthalmitis and eye infections, strengthen hair, provide antioxidants and boost body immunity. Butterfly pea is also recognized for its medicinal benefits, which include anti-depression, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. The blue concentrate is added to hair products also promotes healthy hair growth.
Butterfly pea is commonly used in Thailand to make a syrupy blue drink called nam dok anchan (welcome drink for guest) and as colouring for Thai desserts in blue and purple colors. The hot or cold tea is extremely refreshing and cleansing, without any caffeine and it is unique in color and taste. It tastes great both served hot or iced.
I had bought a packet of butterfly pea flower tea leaves from MBK Shopping Center in one of the shops that sell Thai snacks and goodies. Below is how you can brew a cup of butterfly pea flower tea:
Ingredients:
1. 6 Dried Butterfly Pea Flowers
2. Hot water – 1 cup
3. Honey to taste (Optional)
Method:
1. Infuse the dried flowers in hot water for 10 to 15 minutes or till the flowers turn pale and the water turns blue. Add honey to taste and serve chilled or hot.
This recipe can also be used as a dye in your dishes.
You can also add some fresh squeezed lime or lemon juice and the tea will change from blue shade to violet. By adding lemon, it will change the acidity of the tea and hence change the color. This is so amazing!
Let’s admire the cup of butterfly pea flower tea as the color is too attractive to be ignore!
