Nana tea, or mint tea in Arabic, is soothing, caffeine free, great for digestion and so comforting! Just a hint of the exotic with a pinch of saffron, this is one tea you should try.
What is nana tea?
Nana translates to mint in Arabic, so nana tea is Arabic style mint tea, made with just a hint of sweetness and a pinch of saffron. Everything is obviously adjustable, so add more sweetener to your taste. You can also leave out the saffron but just a few threads really gives a wonderful undertone of flavor. Saffron also gives a beautiful yellow color.
Why should I make this tea?
Mint is thought to be good for digestion, and is commonly steeped in tea to be consumed after meals in the Middle East. Red tea with mint is a very common preparation, but making nana tea without any tea leaves ensures you have a lovely warm drink without any caffeine at all. It’s a different way to enjoy tea, but I’m sure you’ll love it!
It’s so easy to make, with the ingredients just added to a pot and brought to a boil then left to steep.
What ingredients do I need?
Fresh mint leaves, a big handful. A little hint of sugar, if desired. A pinch of saffron, and water. That’s it!
You can substitute honey for the sugar, or leave out any sweetener whatsoever. You can leave out the sugar altogether.
With the saffron, a little goes a long way. You just need a few threats.
How do I make mint tea?
The way I make it is super simple. Just add the mint leaves and the water to a pan, and bring to a boil. Once the liquid boils, add the saffron and sugar, stir, and set off the heat and cover to steep for about 15 minutes.
I then strain the mixture into a tea pot and enjoy!
Health benefits of Arabic mint tea:
Mint contains antioxidants called flavenoids which protect the body against free radicals
Mint leaves help digestion, by soothing nausea, bloating and gas.
It can even help relieve congestion and other symptoms of cold and flus.
If you liked this recipe, you might like:
These other Middle Eastern classic drinks:
Or these decadent winter drinks:
Nana Tea (Arabic Mint Tea)
Ingredients
- big handful mint leaves about 4-5 sprigs
- 4-5 cups water
- pinch saffron threads, just a few
- 1 tablespoon sugar or honey, optional
Instructions
- Add the mint leaves, saffron and sugar to a pot along with the water and bring to a boil. Stir. Once the water boils, remove from heat and cover.
- Let the mixture steep, covered for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying.
Judy says
Just like all over Africa & mid-east. So good for my tummy.
Farah Abumaizar says
That’s right!!! Sooo soothing!
Hanadi says
I usually do this t’es after each meal but the one difference is that I boil water first then I add mint saffron crystals sugar and remove it from heat In my mind it keeps mint “healthier “
Thanks for all your recipes
Hanadi
Montreal
Farah Abumaizar says
I think the way you do it is very common! Thanks for the tip Hanadi, much appreciated!!