To infuse tea with gin, I like to use a simple method that yields great results. Here’s how I do it:
1. First, I gather my ingredients: gin and tea leaves. You can choose any type of tea leaves you prefer, such as black tea, green tea, or even herbal tea for a unique twist.
2. Next, I find a jar with a lid that is large enough to hold the desired amount of gin. I usually go for a 16 oz jar, which is perfect for a small batch.
3. I pour the gin into the jar, leaving some space at the top for the tea leaves to expand. The amount of gin you use depends on how concentrated you want the infusion to be. I usually go for about 8 oz of gin.
4. Now it’s time to add the tea leaves. I typically use about 2 tablespoons of tea leaves for 8 oz of gin, but you can adjust the amount based on your personal preference. Make sure to add the leaves directly into the gin, without any tea bags or filters.
5. Once the tea leaves are added, I tightly close the lid on the jar and give it a good shake to ensure that the leaves are well-distributed throughout the gin.
6. Now comes the waiting game. I let the gin and tea leaves infuse together for about two hours. During this time, the flavors of the tea will slowly infuse into the gin, creating a delicious blend.
7. After two hours have passed, it’s time to strain out the tea leaves. I use a fine-mesh sieve or a coffee filter to remove any solids from the infused gin. I discard the tea leaves, as they have done their job of flavoring the gin.
8. Once the infusion is complete and the gin is strained, I return it to the jar for storage. It’s now ready to be used in cocktails or enjoyed on its own.
To make a refreshing gin and tea cocktail, I like to mix about 2 ounces of the infused gin with some ice in a glass. I give it a good stir to chill the drink and ensure that the flavors are well-mixed. Then, I simply garnish with a lemon twist or a sprig of fresh mint, and my gin and tea concoction is ready to be enjoyed.
I hope you find this method helpful in infusing tea with gin. It’s a simple yet effective way to add a unique twist to your cocktails or create a flavorful gin infusion for sipping. Cheers!