An autumnal recipe by Amanda Cook.

The common weed we love to hate, the dandelion really excels in the autumn. Dandelion roots are a popular traditional remedy worldwide as a diuretic and to support the liver. When you chop and roast dandelion root, it develops a rich flavor, similar to coffee. In fact, dandelion root has been a coffee substitute for centuries, and was even used as a coffee flavour enhancer before high-quality coffee was widely available.

I like to mix dandelion root with dried spices and create a warming chai tea, perfect for the cooler autumn temperatures.

Ingredients:

1 tb. dandelion root, dried

2 tsp. loose-leaf rooibos tea (or black tea)

1 cinnamon stick

4 cardamom pods

1 star anise

4 black peppercorns

1 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced

4 cups water

To finish: Milk (organic whole, almond or coconut) + honey

Method:

Put all ingredients (except milk + honey) in a pan. Cover & simmer 20-30 minutes. 

Strain out the spices and reserve the liquid tea.

Mix the tea with your choice of hot milk and add honey to taste. I like 2/3 tea, 1/3 milk – but mix it to your own strength.

Enjoy!

Store any extra tea.