Ginger Tea: A Comforting Korean Tradition You Can Enjoy at Home

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 When winter arrives in Korea, the first thing many people reach for is not a vitamin bottle or cough syrup, but a warm cup of ginger tea, known as saenggang-cha (생강차). This traditional drink has been loved for centuries for its soothing warmth, gentle spice, and believed health benefits.

For me, ginger tea is deeply nostalgic. I still remember my mother simmering fresh ginger on the stove whenever I showed the slightest sign of a cold. The whole house would fill with its spicy-sweet aroma, and she would hand me a steaming cup with a slice of lemon and a spoonful of honey. Even today, one sip brings back that comforting feeling of being cared for.

In this post, I’ll introduce what makes Korean ginger tea special, how to make it easily at home, and how to prepare a homemade ginger syrup that you can store and enjoy anytime.

What Is Korean Ginger Tea?

Korean ginger tea is a traditional herbal infusion made from fresh ginger that has been boiled or steeped in hot water. It is often sweetened with honey or sugar and sometimes includes jujube (Korean red dates) or cinnamon for added flavor.

While ginger tea exists in many cultures, the Korean version focuses on:

  • warming the body

  • supporting digestion

  • soothing cold symptoms

  • calming the stomach

In Korean traditional medicine, ginger is believed to increase circulation and help balance internal energy, especially during cold seasons.

Health Benefits Traditionally Associated with Ginger Tea

Although scientific opinions may vary, Koreans traditionally believe ginger tea helps with:

  • relieving cold and flu symptoms

  • warming hands and feet

  • easing nausea and indigestion

  • improving circulation

  • calming sore throats

This is why many Korean households always keep ginger on hand during winter.

How to Make Korean Ginger Tea at Home

This recipe is simple, beginner-friendly, and requires only a few ingredients.

Ingredients

  • 100g fresh ginger

  • 3–4 cups water

  • 1–2 tbsp honey or sugar (optional)

  • 2–3 slices of lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Peel the ginger and slice it thinly.
    Thin slices release more flavor.

  2. Add the ginger to a pot with water.

  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.

  4. Strain into a cup.

  5. Add honey or sugar to taste.

  6. Serve with a slice of lemon if desired.

✅ Adjust the simmering time depending on how strong you want the flavor.

Making Ginger Syrup (Ginger Preserve) for Long-Term Use

If you want to enjoy ginger tea quickly without boiling it every time, a ginger syrup (similar to Korean fruit preserves used for yuja tea) is a perfect solution. It creates a sweet, spicy concentrate that lasts for weeks.

Ingredients

  • 200g fresh ginger

  • 200g sugar or honey

  • 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the ginger thinly.

  2. Mix ginger and sugar (or honey) in a sterilized jar.

  3. Add thin lemon slices if you like a brighter flavor.

  4. Close the lid and store in the refrigerator for 3–7 days.

  5. When the ginger releases its juices, it becomes a syrup.

To serve:

  • Mix 1–2 tablespoons of syrup with hot water.

  • Stir and enjoy.

This method creates a convenient and delicious base for quick ginger tea and can also be used in:

  • cocktails

  • sparkling water

  • baking

  • marinades

Personal Reflection

Even now, whenever I feel a chill in the air or notice the first signs of a cold, I instinctively prepare a cup of ginger tea. It warms my hands, my throat, and somehow my heart as well. It reminds me of quiet winter mornings and the simple comfort of homemade care.

Sharing this recipe makes me feel like I’m passing on a small piece of Korean tradition—one that brings warmth not just to the body, but to everyday life.

Tips for Better Flavor

  • Use fresh ginger for the strongest aroma.

  • Add cinnamon or jujube for a traditional Korean twist.

  • Let the syrup ferment slightly for a deeper taste.

  • Slice ginger as thin as possible.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re interested in Korean culture, looking for a natural home remedy, or simply enjoy warm, fragrant drinks, Korean ginger tea is a wonderful tradition to explore. With just a few ingredients, you can bring a bit of Korean winter comfort into your own home.

Warm, soothing, and full of character—ginger tea is more than just a drink. It’s a comforting experience shared across generations.

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