Fresh and Dried Passion Fruit Tea

Why people make this tea

Passion fruit has earned something of a reputation in recent years, and not without reason. Dried passion fruit pieces — made from whole fruit juice and pulp that has been slowly dried — offer a concentrated, sweet-sour flavour that works beautifully as a tea base. Research attributes more than 165 distinct aroma compounds to passion fruit, which may partly explain its unusual depth of fragrance. Beyond the sensory appeal, it contains flavonoids and polyphenols associated with anti-inflammatory, circulation-supporting, and lipid-managing effects. Adding a small handful of dried pieces to fresh passion fruit intensifies the flavour and makes the whole drink considerably more aromatic than fresh fruit alone. Dried passion fruit pieces are available at Chinese herb shops, Asian grocers, or online.

Method

1. Halve the fresh passion fruit and scoop all of the pulp and seeds directly into a cup or small teapot.
2. Add the dried passion fruit pieces.
3. Pour warm water at about 60 degrees Celsius over the mixture — water that is too hot can diminish some of the volatile aromatic compounds.
4. Stir gently and allow to infuse for a minute or two.
5. Drink as is, seeds and all — the seeds are edible and beneficial.
6. Add a small drizzle of honey if you prefer a less tart flavour.

Nourilo’s Tips

Do not discard the seeds — they are edible and actually quite good for you. The pulp and seeds together help support the gut microbiome and assist the body in eliminating toxins, which in turn benefits the clarity of the skin and reduces breakouts. For the most fragrant result, use warm rather than boiling water, and drink it fresh.