Apple Raisin Tea

Why people make this tea

This is one of Bro Niu’s simplest and most loved recipes — just two ingredients, fifteen minutes, and you have a warm, naturally sweet tea with a lovely apple fragrance. Apple has long been called the “youth fruit” in Chinese food-therapy tradition, and it is not hard to see why: it is rich in pectin, vitamins, and minerals that support skin softness and circulation. Raisins, which are nutritionally more concentrated than fresh grapes, are associated with nourishing the blood, strengthening the muscles, and improving the stomach. Together, this tea is traditionally favoured by women who want to support a brighter complexion, fade dullness or light brown spots, and maintain energy. Children can enjoy it too.

Who it suits / who should be cautious

• Suitable for most adults and children as a daily wellness tea
• Particularly associated with supporting those with a dull or uneven complexion, fatigue, or sluggish digestion
• No significant contraindications at these amounts; diabetics should enjoy in moderation due to the natural sweetness of raisins

Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)

• Apple (ping guo): Contains abundant pectin, multiple vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. The skin of the apple contains phenolic compounds and flavonoids associated with antioxidant and anti-aging effects in food science research.
• Raisins (pu tao gan): Nutritionally denser than fresh grapes. Traditionally associated with nourishing the blood, strengthening digestion, and supporting the tendons and bones.

Ingredients (2 cups)

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Apple	1	Keep skin on; slice thin
Raisins	2 tablespoons	Rinse before use
Water	2 bowls (~400 mL)	—

Method

1. Wash the apple thoroughly with the skin on — see tip below for removing wax and pesticide residue.
2. Slice the apple thin, leaving the skin on; no need to peel.
3. Rinse the raisins.
4. Combine apple slices, raisins, and 2 bowls of water in a small pot.
5. Bring to a boil over medium heat and simmer for about 15 minutes.
6. Pour into cups and enjoy warm. The cooked apple and raisins can be eaten as well.

Bro Niu’s tips

The skin of the apple is genuinely beneficial and should be kept on — it holds most of the phenolic compounds that support healthy skin. To clean wax and surface residues from commercially grown apples: briefly dip the whole apple in hot water, then scrub with a pinch of salt. This removes most surface wax and pesticide residue effectively. This tea is gentle enough to enjoy daily, and the best time to have it is between meals as a light snack.

Community questions answered (selected)

• Q (Yvonne): Can this tea be drunk every day? What is the best time to take it? Bro Niu: Yes, this tea can be enjoyed every day. The best time is between meals — have it as a little snack and you will get the most out of it.

• Q (karenwong): Can children drink this? Bro Niu: Yes, children can enjoy this tea.

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Published June 29, 2017 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.