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a pitcher of pink/red shiso tea

Shiso Tea | Perilla Lemon Calming Tea (柠檬紫苏热饮)

A warming, rose-hued shiso tea rooted in Chinese postpartum tradition. Naturally calming, vitamin C-rich, and stunning in the cup — with a little help from kitchen chemistry.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 4 cups
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 30
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 handful red shiso / perilla leaves (fresh or dried)
  • 3 slices lemon
  • 1 Liter water 4 cups
  • honey to taste (never for infants under 1 year)

Equipment

  • 1 Pot

Method
 

  1. Combine shiso leaves and cold water in a pot. Bring to a boil and simmer 3–4 minutes.
  2. Add lemon slices. When the tea turns rose-pink, remove from heat.
  3. Strain into a glass bottle or pitcher.
  4. Serve warm with honey. Refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently as needed.

Notes

This shiso tea keeps in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a stronger tea, increase the shiso leaves. Not for cold serving in the postpartum period — drink warm.