Tea with "maramieh" - Tea with Salvia officinalis

Tea with Maramieh - Savor the Flavors of Tradition

Total preparation time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 2

If you wish to enjoy a moment of indulgence and relaxation, I propose a simple and traditional recipe: tea with maramieh, also known as sage tea. This aromatic beverage is not just a warm liquid that delights your senses, but also a health elixir, bringing with it a rich history and impressive nutritional benefits.

Necessary Ingredients
- 2 cups of water
- 4-5 dried sage leaves (Maramieh)
- Sugar to taste (or honey, for a more natural touch)

Additional Ingredients (optional)
- A slice of lemon for an extra freshness
- A dash of cinnamon for an exotic aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Sage Leaves
Start by taking the dried sage leaves. If possible, pick them from your garden. Make sure they are well-dried, cutting them into pieces of about 4-5 cm. This step is essential to allow the flavors to optimally release during infusion.

2. Boiling the Water
In a kettle or a small pot, add the 2 cups of water and bring it to a boil. It is important not to boil the sage with the water, as this will add a bitter taste to the tea.

3. Infusing the Tea
Once the water has boiled, remove the kettle from the heat. Place the dried sage leaves in the water, cover the kettle with a lid, and let it steep for 5 minutes. This interval allows the flavors to reveal themselves, creating a rich and characterful tea.

4. Sweetening the Tea
After 5 minutes, add sugar or honey to taste. Stir gently until completely dissolved. If you like, you can also add a slice of lemon or a dash of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.

5. Serving
Pour the tea into cups and enjoy it warm. It pairs deliciously with Arabic sweets, such as baklava or almond cookies. This tea can also be enjoyed at dinner, providing a refreshing and aromatic note to your meal.

Practical Tips

- Drying Sage: If you pick fresh sage, make sure to dry it in a dark and well-ventilated place to preserve its intense aroma.
- Alternative with Fresh Leaves: If you have fresh leaves, you can use about 6-8 leaves. The infusion will take about 3-4 minutes.
- Nutritional Benefits: Sage tea is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It is an excellent natural remedy for colds or digestive issues.

A Short Story
Sage, also known as Maramieh, has a deep history in culinary and medicinal traditions. Its name comes from the Latin "salvere," meaning "to save," evoking the story of the Virgin Mary who hid in sage bushes. This plant has been used since ancient times to bring relief and health, symbolizing protection and blessing.

Frequently Asked Questions

- What other ingredients can I add to sage tea?
You can experiment with various spices such as ginger, mint, or basil for interesting variations.

- Is sage tea suitable for everyone?
Although it is a beneficial drink, it is recommended that pregnant individuals or those taking certain medications consult a specialist before consuming sage tea.

- How can I store dried sage?
You can keep it in cloth bags or glass jars, in a dark and dry place to maintain its aroma.

Possible Variations
- Sage Tea with Honey and Lemon: A delicious and healthy variant, perfect for refreshing the body.
- Sage Tea with Mint: A refreshing combination that adds an extra coolness on hot summer days.

In conclusion, tea with maramieh is not just a simple drink, but a ritual full of tradition, flavor, and health. Whether you choose to enjoy it alone or in the company of loved ones, each sip will transport you to a universe of flavors and stories. Enjoy your tea!