- Why did the tea turn bitter?
- You likely steeped the leaves for too long or the water was too hot, releasing the tannins.
- What rum should I use?
- Dark rum or spiced rum gives the fullest flavour; white rum is less distinct in this drink.
Warming rum tea with lemon and honey
A sophisticated homemade version of the classic 'Jägertee'. In this hot drink, some of the rum's alcohol evaporates, but the treacle-like, characterful aroma remains, which pairs beautifully with the deep, tannic notes of black tea to instantly warm the body. The lemon and honey not only flavour the drink but also balance its sharpness.
Ingredients
2
tsp
Black tea (loose or bags)
200
ml
Water
50
ml
Dark rum
2
tbsp
Honey
10
ml
Freshly squeezed lemon juice
1
slice
Lemon
1
pinch
Orange zest (optional)
1
piece
Clove (optional)
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Equipment Needed
- Kettle: For water at the correct temperature.
- Teapot or heatproof jug: For steeping the tea.
- Cup: For serving.
Instructions
1
✓
Boil the water, then let it stand for 30 seconds before pouring over the tea. Steep for exactly 5 minutes until the water turns a dark reddish-brown hue.
Tip: Boiling water can scorch the tea leaves. A short rest allows it to reach the ideal temperature of around 95°C.
2
✓
If using orange zest or cloves, add them to the hot tea now so the heat releases their essential oils.
Tip: Flavour compounds in spices are released and dissolved in water through heat (extraction).
3
✓
Strain the tea (or remove the bag) and immediately stir in the honey until completely dissolved.
Tip: Honey's viscosity decreases in warm liquid, allowing it to blend more easily.
4
✓
Pour in the rum and lemon juice. Do not boil at this stage, just stir through.
Tip: If boiled, both the alcohol and the Vitamin C content of the lemon would evaporate or break down.
5
✓
Serve piping hot in a thick-walled mug, garnished with the lemon slice.
Tip: When tasting, look for balance: the triangle of acidity (lemon), sweetness (honey), and bitterness (tea/alcohol).
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 2 tsp Black tea (loose or bags)
- 200 ml Water
- 50 ml Dark rum
- 2 tbsp Honey
- 10 ml Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 slice Lemon
- 1 pinch Orange zest (optional)
- 1 piece Clove (optional)