Ihlamur Cayi (Turkish Linden Blossom Tea)

İhlamur Çayı is the tea Turkish grandmothers reach for on chilly evenings or when a cold is coming on. Dried linden blossoms steep into a pale, honey-scented infusion that’s naturally caffeine-free. It’s simple enough to make any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 4 cups water
• 3 tablespoons dried linden (lime) blossoms
• Honey, to taste
• Lemon slices, for serving

Instructions

1. Boil the water
   Bring water to a boil in a small pot.
2. Steep the blossoms
   Remove from heat, add the dried linden blossoms, cover, and steep for 8-10 minutes.
3. Strain and sweeten
   Strain the tea into cups, discarding the blossoms. Stir in honey to taste.
4. Serve warm
   Add a slice of lemon to each cup and serve hot, especially at the first sign of a cold.

Look for dried linden blossoms at Middle Eastern or specialty tea shops.