🇹🇭 Thailand · Drinks
Lemongrass and Ginger Tea (Nam Takrai Nam Khing)
By eatmundo · July 9, 2026
A fragrant and soothing herbal tea, combining the zesty freshness of lemongrass with the warm, spicy kick of ginger. This traditional Thai beverage is not only delicious but also cherished for its invigorating and comforting properties, perfect served warm or over ice.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare 2 stalks of lemongrass: first, trim off the tough ends and remove any dry outer layers. Then, use the back of a heavy knife or a mortar and pestle to bruise the stalks firmly, about 3-4 times each, to release their essential oils and intense aroma.
- 2
Peel 50g of fresh ginger and thinly slice it into rounds or matchsticks. For an even stronger flavor, you can lightly bruise these slices as well, similar to the lemongrass, to help them infuse better.
- 3
Combine the prepared lemongrass and ginger with 750ml of fresh water in a small saucepan. Ensure all ingredients are submerged, ready for infusion.
- 4
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it gently simmer for 10-15 minutes. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully and intensify, filling your kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
- 5
Carefully strain the tea into serving cups or a clean pitcher, using a fine-mesh sieve to catch all the solids. Discard the lemongrass and ginger pieces, leaving you with a clear, golden infusion.
- 6
Sweeten to taste with 1-2 tablespoons of honey or sugar, stirring until fully dissolved. For an extra zesty note and brightness, add about 1 teaspoon of fresh lime juice. Serve warm for comfort, or chill completely and serve over ice for a refreshing cold drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I effectively bruise lemongrass and ginger?+
To bruise lemongrass, use the flat side of a heavy chef's knife or a mortar and pestle to gently smash the stalks a few times until they start to split and release their fragrance. For ginger, simply slice thinly and a light smash can further release its oils.
Can I use dried lemongrass or ginger for this tea?+
While fresh ingredients yield the best flavor and aroma, you can use dried lemongrass or ginger. Use about 1/3 the amount of dried compared to fresh, as their flavor is more concentrated, and steep for a slightly longer time.
How long can I store this tea, and how should I store it?+
Once brewed and cooled, this tea can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's excellent served chilled, making it a great make-ahead option.
What are the traditional health benefits associated with lemongrass and ginger tea?+
In Thai traditional medicine, this tea is believed to aid digestion, reduce inflammation, alleviate cold and flu symptoms, and promote relaxation due to the calming properties of lemongrass and the warming effects of ginger.
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