Oolong Pear Morning Paper

Pear and a tiny pinch of cardamom bring a soft, spiced character to cooled oolong. The tea adds structure without making the drink feel heavy. Use a ripe pear and mash a few thin slices so its flavor actually reaches the tea. Cardamom can be powerful, so measure the small amount carefully and stir it in well. This is an understated, slightly textured iced tea, more aromatic than sweet. Oolong contains caffeine, even when served cold.

Ingredients

• 1 tea bag Oolong tea
• 6 oz Water
• 1/2 fruit Ripe pear, cored and sliced
• 1 tiny pinch Ground cardamom

Make it

1. Brew the tea in the measured water, using the temperature and steeping time on its packet. Remove the tea bag.
2. Cool the tea in a heatproof container, then chill for about 30 minutes.
3. Mash any soft fruit in a separate glass. Lightly bruise herbs or ginger; add these and the listed juices or spices to the cooled tea.
4. Stir well and taste. Remove ginger or herb sprigs when their flavor suits you. Strain if you prefer a smoother drink, then serve chilled.

Benefits

Oolong and pear · refreshing fluids

The water does a simple, useful job in this oolong, pear, and cardamom combination: it contributes to hydration while stretching a fragrant, layered tea flavor into a full drink.

A different side of cardamom

There is a fragrant, almost citrusy warmth from the measured cardamom in the oolong and pear mixture, giving that ingredient a place without drowning out the other flavors.

Contains caffeine.