Looking for a unique, aromatic, and invigorating drink to refresh your day? This cold brew infusion combines the deep, warming spice of whole cloves with the crisp freshness of green mint leaves. Prepared right in your refrigerator, this smooth cold infusion offers a perfectly balanced flavor profile with gentle herbal undertones.
Whether served as a revitalizing afternoon iced drink or as a soothing wellness tonic, this easy, no-boil recipe delivers maximum aroma with minimal effort.
Why You Will Love This Cold Brew Infusion
- Smooth & Crisp: Cold brewing extracts natural flavors without extracting bitter tannins from hot steeping.
- 100% Natural: Made with whole spices and fresh herbs with zero added sugars or preservatives.
- Effortless Prep: Simply combine ingredients in a bottle or jar and let your refrigerator do the work.
- Aromatic & Invigorating: Blends the subtle warming warmth of cloves with cooling mint leaves.
Health Benefits of Cloves and Mint
Combining whole cloves and mint leaves creates a functional, wellness-focused herbal drink:
- Digestive Comfort: Both mint and cloves are traditionally known for soothing the stomach and aiding healthy digestion.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Cloves are packed with eugenol, a potent natural compound that helps combat oxidative stress.
- Breath & Mouth Freshness: Mint and cloves naturally promote a clean, refreshing feeling in the mouth and throat.
Ingredients Needed
To prepare this cold infusion, gather the following simple ingredients:
- 1 Tablespoon Whole Cloves: Rinsed.
- 1 Handful Fresh Mint Leaves: Thoroughly washed.
- 4 Cups Filtered Cold Water
- 1 Medium Lemon or Lime (Optional): Sliced into rounds for extra citrus zest.
- 1–2 Tablespoons Raw Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional): For subtle sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Gently wash the fresh mint leaves under cool running water. Lightly slap the leaves between your palms to release their natural aromatic oils.
- Rinse the whole cloves briefly in a fine sieve to remove any excess dust.
Step 2: Combine in Container
- Place the whole cloves, bruised mint leaves, and optional lemon slices into a clean glass jug or food-grade pitcher.
- Pour 4 cups of cold filtered water over the herbs and spices.
Step 3: Cold Brew in the Fridge
- Seal the bottle or jar securely with its cap or lid.
- Transfer to the refrigerator and let it cold-infuse for at least 6 to 12 hours (overnight is ideal).
Step 4: Strain and Serve
- Pour the chilled tea through a fine-mesh sieve into glasses over ice cubes.
- Stir in a touch of honey or maple syrup if desired, and garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
Expert Tips for the Best Cold Infusion
- Don’t Over-Infuse Cloves: Whole cloves are very fragrant. Keep the steeping time under 12–18 hours so the spice flavor stays balanced and doesn’t overpower the light mintiness.
- Use Glass Bottles: Storing cold brews in glass bottles or containers preserves the pure herbal aroma without absorbing plastic odors.
- Add Sliced Ginger: A few thin slices of fresh ginger root add a delicious, fiery complement to the cloves and mint.
Storage and Handling
- Refrigeration: Keep sealed in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 to 3 days for optimal freshness.
- Strain Before Long Storage: If storing for more than 24 hours, strain out the solids to prevent the tea from becoming overly spicy or strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I re-infuse the ingredients with more water?
Yes! You can refill the bottle with fresh cold water once for a second, lighter batch.
Is cold brew tea healthier than hot brewed tea?
Cold brewing allows for a smoother extraction of aromatic essential oils with less acidity and tannin extraction, making it gentler on sensitive stomachs.