Meadow Tea (Amish Mint Tea) — refreshing and nutritious, too

In an Amish novel I was recently reading, I noticed several references to Meadow Tea. Since I had no idea what it was, I did some investigating and then, of course, I had to give it a try.  Barry and I both agree that this sweetened mint tea with lemon is refreshing. I used honey as a natural sweetener in the second batch and it was a nice substitution for the granulated sugar . Additional investigation of mint reveals that it aids digestion, soothes the stomach, and freshens breath. It’s also naturally rich in nutrients like potassium, calcium, vitamin C, and more. 

Above: A refreshing glass of Meadow/Mint Tea.
Below: Mint leaves steeping in hot water. 

Amish Meadow Tea (Amish Mint Tea)

2 quarts water (8 cups)

1 cup packed with spearmint leaves (but I’m also going to try it with chocolate and pineapple mint) + a few extra for garnish 

1/2 cup granulated sugar or 1/4 cup honey if you prefer a natural sweetener

1 tablespoon lemon juice + lemon slices for garnish 

1. Wash and rinse off mint to remove any dirt or pests. Blot dry with a towel or spin in a salad spinner. 
2. Fill a large pot with 2 quarts of water and bring it to a boil over high heat on your stovetop, or heat water in an electric kettle
3. Add in one cup of packed mint leaves, place a tight-fitting lid over top, and remove the pot from the heat; if using electric kettle—place mint leaves in a heat safe container and pour hot water over mint. If using honey as the sweetener, add it now to insure it will dissolve. 
4. Let this mix steep for around 2 ½ hours or more, until the water turns a mint green color.
5. After it’s done, strain and discard the mint as you transfer the tea into a container of your choice.
6. If using granulated sugar, add it now and stir until it’s completely dissolved. Add lemon juice and stir. 
7. Refrigerate the tea until it’s completely chilled.
8. To serve cold: Fill a glass with ice, add the tea and garnish with lemon slice(s) and fresh mint leaves. Note: Meadow/Mint Tea can also be served hot.