Discover butterfly pea flower tea, a vibrant blue herbal tea known for its colour-changing magic. Learn its benefits, how to make it and easy recipes like lattes, mocktails and lemonade.
What is Butterfly Pea Flower Tea?
Butterfly pea flower tea is a naturally caffeine-free herbal infusion made from the dried petals of the Clitoria ternatea. It has roots in Thailand and other parts of Southeast Asia, where it has been enjoyed for centuries. Traditionally, it is used for herbal wellness practices and natural food colouring.
It is not a true tea as it is not from the tea plant. Instead it is classified as a tisane or an herbal tea. Sometimes it is referred to as blue tea simply because of the vibrant blue colour it is known for, however, it is not a type of tea on its own.
This herbal tea is also known for its colour-changing magic as this herbal tea transforms into purple or pink when acidic ingredients like lemon juice are added.
Health Benefits of Butterfly Pea Flower
A cup of this beautiful herbal tea has its benefits. However, please note that you should always consult a medical professional before taking any herbs for health purposes.
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea is:
- Rich in Anthocyanins: This is a type of antioxidant that helps protect the body from oxidative stress.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Studies suggest the flower contains compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
- May Support Skin & Hair Health: Some early studies and traditional uses point to benefits for skin and hair, though more research is still needed.
- Naturally Caffeine-Free: Perfect for those looking to reduce caffeine intake.
How to Make Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
To prepare this herbal tea you will need:
- Water: Freshly boiled (100 degrees Celsius or 212 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Butterfly Pea Flowers: 1-2 teaspoons dried butterfly pea flowers
- Teaware: Teapot and/or mug with infuser basket or tea strainer
- Optional: Lemon and/or Sweetener (ie. sugar, honey, maple syrup, etc.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Find a printable recipe card below with the full measurements and directions, too!
Step 1:
Pour warm water into your steeping vessel (teapot or mug), swirl it around carefully then discard the water. This step will warm the teapot or mug which will help the herbal tea retain heat and steep properly.
Step 2:
Add dried butterfly pea flowers to the warm teapot or infuser mug. Pour freshly boiled water over the dried flowers, cover the teapot or mug with a lid or small plate and steep for 5 minutes.
Step 3:
If using a teapot without an infuser, pour the steeped tea into a cup over a strainer to catch the loose flowers. If using an infuser in the teapot or mug, remove the infuser basket when the steeping process is complete.
Step 4:
If desired, add sweetener of your choice to the cup and stir until dissolved. You can also add other ingredients here for more flavour.
For example, add a splash of fresh lemon juice to change the beautiful blue colour to a purple hue. This step is completely optional, however, it can enhance the experience. Sip and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
- Use high-quality dried flowers for the best colour and flavour
- Don’t over-steep as it can become slightly bitter
- Pair with citrus for colour changing effect or honey, mint or vanilla for added flavour
- Try it iced for a refreshing summer drink
Butterfly Pea Flower Recipes to Try
If you want to get creative, this flower really shines in recipes. Here are a few favourites from the blog:
- Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Mocktail: A refreshing, colour-changing drink that is fun and delicious for gatherings or an afternoon treat without alcohol.
- Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Latte: A creamy, naturally caffeine-free latte that highlights the herbal tea’s subtle notes.
- Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Lemonade: Bright, citrusy, and vibrant layered drink. This one is always a showstopper!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does butterfly pea flower tea taste like?
It has a very mild, earthy flavour with subtle floral notes. It is quite light on its own so I prefer it with added flavours like fruit (ie, citrus) or sweeteners.
Is this tea caffeine-free?
Yes, it is naturally caffeine-free.
Why does butterfly pea flower tea change colour?
The colour change happens due to a reaction between the tea’s anthocyanins and acidity (like lemon juice).
Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Ingredients
- 1-2 teaspoons dried butterfly pea flowers
- 1 cup water freshly boiled (100 degrees Celsius or 212 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Lemon juice and/or sweetener optional
Instructions
- Pour warm water into your steeping vessel (teapot or mug), swirl it around carefully then discard the water. This step will warm the teapot or mug which will help the herbal tea retain heat and steep properly.
- Add dried butterfly pea flowers to the warm teapot or infuser mug. Pour freshly boiled water over the dried flowers, cover the teapot or mug with a lid or small plate and steep for 5 minutes.
- If using a teapot without an infuser, pour the steeped tea into a cup over a strainer to catch the loose flowers. If using an infuser in the teapot or mug, remove the infuser basket when the steeping process is complete.
- If desired, add sweetener of your choice to the cup and stir until dissolved. You can also add other ingredients here for more flavour. For example, add a splash of fresh lemon juice to change the beautiful blue colour to a purple hue. This step is completely optional, however, it can enhance the experience. Sip and enjoy!