Jasmine Downy Pearls Sparking Tea

Author: Layla Osberg

This drink is reflective of the season; the bubbles and evocative jasmine tea balls, called 'pearls,' are reminiscent of fancy parties, entertaining and extravagant gift giving that fill the holiday time. It’s also a drink that suits the various gatherings that pop up. It would work well for an impromptu drop-in from friends, accompany a Christmas feast, a New Years' toast, or even a solo afternoon pick-me-up.

We’ve also taken into consideration the fact that you've likely got enough cooking or holiday baking on your plate, so you’ll find this recipe refreshingly simple and can even be kept in the fridge until ready to serve. Happy gathering!

Sparkling Jasmine Downy Pearls Tea

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons of Murchie’s Jasmine Downy Pearls
• 1 cup boiling water
• Ice cubes
• 1 litre sparkling water
• Honey syrup (equal parts honey and water)
  *substitute sparkling wine for an alcoholic version

Directions

Steep Jasmine Downy Pearls in 1 cup of freshly boiled water for 4 minutes.

Pour tea through a strainer over 2 cups of ice cubes in a large pitcher.

When ready to serve, pour the sparkling water into the pitcher over the tea and stir.

Add honey syrup to taste (to make the honey syrup dissolve honey into hot water).

Pour into glasses with ice.

*Garnish with citrus zest or a rosemary sprig if desired.