Kiwi Mint Cold Brew

This Kiwi Mint Cold Brew Green Tea has become my summer sanctuary during those sweltering afternoons when even the thought of a hot beverage makes me perspire. The gentle fusion of earthy green tea with bright kiwi and cooling mint creates a refreshing drink that hydrates while offering subtle energy without the caffeine crash.

I first created this recipe during a particularly brutal heatwave last summer when my air conditioning decided to quit. What began as desperate hydration turned into a family favorite that my children now request weekly as their "special drink" during our Sunday brunches.

• Cold water forms the base allowing the flavors to infuse gently without the bitterness hot water can extract
• Green tea bags provide antioxidants and a subtle earthy foundation look for high quality Japanese sencha for best results
• Ripe kiwis bring natural sweetness and vitamin C choose fruits that yield slightly to gentle pressure for peak flavor
• Fresh mint leaves add cooling sensation and digestive benefits the fresher the better so pick right before using if possible
• Honey optional for balanced sweetness raw varieties offer more complex flavor notes than processed options
• Ice cubes for serving larger cubes melt slower preventing dilution

How To Make Kiwi Mint Cold Brew Green Tea

Prepare the Base

Add cold water to a large glass pitcher ensuring you use filtered water for the cleanest taste. Gently add your green tea bags or loose leaf tea in a strainer submerging them fully without squeezing or agitating which can release bitter compounds.

Add Aromatics

Wash and pat dry your mint leaves before adding them whole to the pitcher. The gentle cold brewing process will extract the aromatic oils without the harsh menthol that hot water can pull out. Slice your kiwis with a sharp knife to about 1/4 inch thickness ensuring maximum surface area for flavor infusion.

Sweeten If Desired

If adding sweetener do so while the water is still fresh as it dissolves more readily before the brewing process begins. Start with less than you think you need approximately one tablespoon per pitcher as the kiwi will release natural sweetness during steeping.

Patient Infusion

Cover your pitcher with plastic wrap or a tight fitting lid and place in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours though 12 hours yields the most balanced flavor profile. The slow extraction process allows delicate flavors to bloom without any harshness.

Strain and Serve

Using a fine mesh strainer remove all solids pressing gently on the kiwi slices to extract remaining juice. Pour into ice filled glasses and garnish with fresh mint sprigs and kiwi wheels for an impressive presentation.

The mint in this recipe holds a special place in my heart as it comes from the same variety my grandmother grew in her kitchen garden. Every summer she would make us mint tea as children but this adult version with its subtle complexity brings me back to those carefree days while satisfying my more developed palate.

Flavor Variations

The beauty of this cold brew lies in its adaptability. For a tropical twist substitute one of the kiwis with half a cup of diced pineapple which pairs wonderfully with the mint background notes. Citrus enthusiasts might appreciate adding thin slices of lime or a tablespoon of lemon juice which brighten the green tea base considerably. For special occasions a splash of coconut water replaces some of the plain water elevating this refresher to mocktail status with its natural sweetness and electrolytes.

Storage Solutions

This cold brew maintains its flavor profile beautifully when stored properly. Keep it in a glass container with an airtight seal rather than plastic which can sometimes impart subtle flavors to delicate infusions. The tea will stay fresh for up to three days though the vibrant green from the kiwi may soften slightly over time. If preparing in advance consider keeping the strained tea base separate from the fresh garnishes adding them only upon serving for the most impressive presentation and brightest flavors.

Health Benefits

Beyond its refreshing taste this Kiwi Mint Cold Brew Green Tea offers impressive nutritional benefits. Green tea contains polyphenols known for their antioxidant properties while kiwi provides more vitamin C than an equivalent amount of orange. The mint contributes menthol which can aid digestion and provide respiratory benefits especially welcome during warm weather. As a hydration option this infusion encourages increased fluid intake due to its appealing flavor profile without the added sugars found in commercial beverages. Many of my friends trying to reduce their soda consumption have found this recipe helps them transition to healthier options without feeling deprived.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen kiwi instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen kiwi works well in this cold brew. Allow the frozen kiwi to partially thaw before adding to the pitcher, which will help release the flavors. As a bonus, frozen kiwi can serve as natural ice cubes that won't dilute your drink.

→ How long will this cold brew last in the refrigerator?

The cold brew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a sealed container. The flavor is best within the first 48 hours. If storing, consider straining out the kiwi and mint after the initial brewing period to prevent over-infusion.

→ Can I use other types of tea instead of green tea?

Absolutely! White tea works beautifully for a more delicate flavor, while herbal teas like chamomile provide a caffeine-free alternative. Black tea creates a bolder base but may require a shorter steeping time to prevent bitterness.

→ What's the best sweetener to use in this drink?

Honey complements the kiwi and mint flavors perfectly, but agave nectar, maple syrup, or simple syrup also work well. For a sugar-free option, stevia or monk fruit sweetener can be used. Consider making a mint-infused simple syrup for extra flavor depth.

→ Can I add other fruits to this cold brew?

Yes, this cold brew is very adaptable! Cucumber slices, berries, citrus, or stone fruits like peaches all pair wonderfully with the kiwi and mint. For a more complex flavor profile, try adding a small amount of muddled ginger or a few sprigs of lemongrass.

→ How can I make this into an alcoholic beverage?

To transform this into a cocktail, add 1-2 oz of vodka, white rum, or gin per serving. For a sparkling version, use half cold brew and half prosecco or champagne. A splash of elderflower liqueur also pairs beautifully with the kiwi and mint flavors.