Clitoria ternatea - Blue Pea Flower

Blue pea flower blooms have been used for centuries in Vietnam and Thailand to make tea and other beverages. The taste of this flower tea is similar to green tea, but it is often enhanced with ginger, mint, honey, and fruit. This tea is a traditional drink in Southeast Asia, consumed after dinner for relaxation.

The distinct blue color has made this flower famous, bringing it to all corners of the world.

Spice for coloring cocktails and gin tonics

Gin & Tonic, cocktails, and other beverages with the addition of this flower take on beautiful blue shades. Adding lemon juice makes the blue shades darken and turn purple. But the fun doesn't stop there. Add the flower to water and make blue ice cubes.

Butterfly Pea Flower Tea

Butterfly pea flower tea is simple to prepare. Here are the steps to make this tea:

Prepare the Ingredients:

• 1-2 teaspoons of dried butterfly pea flowers (Clitoria ternatea)
• 1 cup of hot water (around 95°C)
• Optional: honey, lemon, or other sweeteners and additives

Brewing the Tea:

1. Boil the water and let it cool slightly so it is not too hot.
2. Place the dried butterfly pea flowers in a cup or teapot.
3. Pour the hot water over the flowers and let them steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on the desired intensity of color and flavor.

Finishing and Serving:

• Strain the tea to remove the flowers.
• Optionally, add honey for sweetness or lemon for a refreshing taste. Adding lemon will change the tea's color from blue to purple due to the reaction with the acid.
• Enjoy your aromatic and healthy butterfly pea flower tea!