Basil & Mint Tea

This is really why I was so happy to be growing basil.  And it is going to town.  I had to pick some leaves before it sagged under its own weight.  It also happened to be that time again to rip out yet more mint in the front yard.

This is very similar to the tea you get at the end of a Moroccan meal.  I made mine a bit less sweet and didn't add any black tea so it would be decaf, but the heady herbal fragrance is intact.  It is also great iced, and you could "season" it up to make an adult drink with any of a number of spirits.

6 C water
1/2 C packed fresh basil leaves
1/2 C packed fresh mint leaves
2 Tb sugar or honey, or to taste

1.  Bring water and sugar to a boil.  Add herb leaves and boil for 5 minutes.  Turn off heat and let steep for half an hour.

2.  Strain out leaves.  Taste and add sugar if necessary.  Either serve hot or chill for iced tea.

Makes 6 cups, or 6-8 servings

Difficulty rating  π