Red Dates & Longan Tea — My Favourite Confinement Drink (That I Still Sip in Winter!)
A nourishing, caffeine-free winter warmer with traditional health benefits
Hello my lovelies,
I first discovered red dates and longan tea during my confinement period. For anyone unfamiliar, the confinement period is the traditional 30–40 day recovery phase after childbirth, focused on rest, warmth, and nourishment. I have to say the red dates & longan tea was my favourite confinement meal/drink that my mum made for me.
Even though I’m long past that stage, I still find myself brewing this tea every now and then, especially in winter. The tea is very delicious - sweet and fragrant & I find it very comforting.
Made from dried red dates and dried longan fruit, this tea is naturally sweet, caffeine-free, and packed with traditional health benefits. Sometimes I add some goji berries too. You can find red dates & dried longan in Asian stores.
The red dates & longan tea is not just delicious, there are health benefits too:
Supports circulation – Red dates are traditionally used to nourish and replenish the blood.
Warming for the body – Especially comforting during cold winter months.
Caffeine-free – A lovely alternative to your afternoon tea or coffee with natural sweetness.
Full of antioxidants – Red dates and longan are known for their immune-supporting properties.
To make: pop a few red dates (pitted) and small handful of dried longan in a saucepan with some water to cover, and simmer for 40 minutes or so until it smells sweet & colour deepen. Start with just enough water covering the dried fruits and add more if you prefer weaker tea. It is best to buy just the dried longan flesh if available. In this photo I used dried longans with shells so I had to peel them first.
I love drinking the tea warm. You can strain the bits out or nibble on them as well.
Note for expectant mums
If you're currently pregnant, please check with your healthcare provider before drinking red dates and longan tea. Some traditional herbs and fruits (including longan) are considered "warming" in nature and may not be suitable during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.
Hope you enjoy,
Amelia x
