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woman pouring longan red date tea from teapot into cup.

Longan Red Date Tea (龙眼红枣茶)

A warming, blood-nourishing tea rooted in traditional Chinese postpartum care. Naturally sweet, deeply comforting, and delicious.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 28 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 50
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 10 dried red dates (jujubes), about 70g slits cut into the sides or halved
  • 1 large handful dried longan, about 40g
  • 3-4 slices fresh ginger, about 30g no need to peel
  • 1 small handful goji berries, about 10g optional
  • 1 tbsp molasses or Taiwanese brown sugar regular brown sugar also works
  • 2 liters water just over 2 quarts

Equipment

  • 1 medium to large pot

Method
 

  1. Prep the dates: Cut slits into the sides of each red date or slice in half to allow the flavor to steep into the tea.
  2. Prep the ginger: Slice into 5–6 pieces. No need to peel.
  3. Combine: Add the red dates, dried longan, ginger, and sugar or molasses to a pot. Cover with 2 liters of cold water.
  4. Boil: Bring to a boil over high heat.
  5. Simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, until the red dates have given their full flavor to the tea. You may let the tea continue to steep for 5-10 minutes after turning the heat off.
  6. Strain and serve: Strain and pour the tea into a teapot or pitcher, discard the solids, and serve warm.

Notes

This tea keeps in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For a stronger, sweeter tea, increase the dried longan to 60g.