Butterfly Pea Tea Recipe

If a drink could have main-character energy, Butterfly Pea Tea would be it. With its mesmerizing blue color (and the ability to magically shift to purple when you add lemon), it’s basically a science experiment and a refreshment in one.

Made from dried butterfly pea flowers—native to Southeast Asia—this tea isn’t just about good looks. It’s caffeine-free, packed with antioxidants, and has a light, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with citrus, honey, and herbs. It can be served hot or iced, used in lattes, cocktails, or lemonade, and gives major “I grew this in my fairy garden” vibes.

Whether you’re hosting brunch, need a caffeine-free afternoon pick-me-up, or just want a drink that looks great on your feed, this tea brings the drama (in the best way).

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Ingredients (serves 2–3):

• Dried butterfly pea flowers – 1 tbsp (or about 10–12 flowers)

• Hot water – 2 cups (480ml)

• Honey or agave – 1–2 tsp (optional, to taste)

• Lemon or lime juice – 1–2 tsp (to watch the color change!)

• Ice – if serving cold

• Optional: fresh mint, lemongrass, ginger slices, or edible flowers for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Steep the flowers (5–7 minutes):
Bring water to just below boiling (around 90°C / 195°F). Pour over the dried butterfly pea flowers in a teapot or heat-safe glass container. Let steep for 5–7 minutes until the water turns a deep cobalt blue. The longer it steeps, the richer the color.

2. Strain and sweeten (1 minute):
Strain out the flowers and pour the blue tea into your favorite glass or mug. Stir in honey or agave if you want a hint of sweetness.

3. Add citrus magic (1–2 minutes):
Here comes the fun part: squeeze in fresh lemon or lime juice and watch the color change from deep blue to violet or bright purple. Give it a gentle stir and enjoy the glow-up.

4. Serve hot or iced:
You can sip it warm as-is, or chill the tea and serve it over ice for a refreshing version. Garnish with a lemon slice, mint leaves, or edible flowers if you’re feeling fancy.

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Pro Tip:

The color of butterfly pea tea reacts to pH levels. Want it blue? Keep it basic (literally). Want it purple or pink? Add acid (like lemon). And don’t throw out leftovers—chilled butterfly pea tea makes a stunning base for lemonade, cocktails, mocktails, or even rice water for blue sushi rice.

Bonus: freeze it into ice cubes for magical color-changing drinks on demand!