Iced Green Tea - The Perfect Cup

We are only beginning to appreciate the health benefits of green tea, something every Asian doctor has known for ages. Now the drink of our future, green tea is a powerful antioxidant. It protects against cancer and may help lower cholesterol. Green tea contains hundreds of phytochemicals,. Lemongrass can be found in Asian markets and in the produce section of many supermarkets. This is a refreshing alternative drink to accompany light summer style meals.

3 stalks lemongrass

2 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons Japanese green tea leaves (sen-cha)

Remove tough outer leaves from 2 stalks of lemongrass. Finely chop lemongrass stalks, including the darker tops.

Bring 4-1/4 cups water, chopped lemongrass, and honey to a rapid boil. Lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Place green tea leaves in a heatproof pitcher. Pour lemongrass infusion over the leaves and let steep for 2 minutes. (If you leave it longer the tea becomes bitter.)

Strain through a fine-mesh sieve. Cut remaining lemongrass stalk in half lengthwise, then crosswise. Let sit in tea until cool. Refrigerate until very cold. Serve over ice, garnished with a lemongrass stick.