Organic Golden Turmeric Orange Star Anise Tea Blend
This Twinings blend contains mostly clean ingredients but includes 'Natural Orange Flavouring' which likely contains artificial compounds. The high sugar content suggests concentrated liquorice root or added sweeteners. A DIY organic version using real orange essential oil and whole spices will provide superior flavor and eliminate any processing chemicals.
Based on: Turmeric With orange & star anise tea
· Makes approximately 40 servings (200g total blend)
· Serving: 1 teaspoon (5g) for 8oz cup of tea
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial Turmeric With orange & star anise tea from Twinings often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
The original Turmeric With orange & star anise tea may also contain artificial dyes. Check it on DyeFreeCheck to find out.
Contributes bright citrus oils and natural vitamin C without artificial flavoring
Instructions
Step 1. Prepare your workspace by laying out parchment paper and gathering a coffee grinder, fine-mesh sieve, and large mixing bowl. Ensure all tools are completely dry to prevent clumping.
Step 2. Grind the star anise pods first: Add 8-10 whole organic star anise pods (20g total) to a clean coffee grinder and pulse in 3-second intervals until you achieve a coarse powder consistency. The goal is to break down the pods while retaining some texture for optimal flavor extraction. Sift through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any large pieces and re-grind if needed.
Step 3. Measure and combine the base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 90g organic turmeric powder, 60g cut lemongrass (if pieces are larger than 1/4 inch, pulse briefly in grinder to reduce size), 20g ground star anise, 20g cut liquorice root, and 10g orange peel granules. The liquorice root should be in small pieces no larger than 1/8 inch for proper steeping.
Step 4. Blend thoroughly using a whisk or large spoon, mixing for 2-3 minutes to ensure even distribution. The turmeric will want to settle, so mix vigorously. The final blend should have a uniform golden-orange color with visible flecks of the various herbs.
Step 5. Sift the entire mixture through a coarse-mesh strainer to break up any clumps and achieve consistency. This step is crucial for turmeric blends as the powder tends to form dense pockets that won't steep properly.
Step 6. Transfer to an airtight glass jar or tin with tight-fitting lid. Label with contents and date. Store in a cool, dark cupboard away from heat and moisture.
Step 7. To brew: Use 1 teaspoon (5g) per 8oz cup of just-below-boiling water (200°F). Steep for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally as turmeric settles. Strain before drinking. For a more concentrated version matching the original product's nutrition profile, use 2 teaspoons per cup and steep for 10 minutes. Add honey or stevia to taste if desired.
Step 8. For best flavor, consume within 18 months of blending. The essential oils in the orange peel and star anise will gradually fade, but the blend remains safe to consume. Shake or stir the container before each use as ingredients may separate over time.
Storage
Store in airtight glass container in cool, dark location. Shelf life: 18 months for optimal flavor, 2 years for safety. Avoid exposure to light and humidity which degrades turmeric potency.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$0.21
Cost per serving (store-bought)$0.45
Savings53%
Higher upfront ingredient cost but dramatic per-serving savings due to bulk buying. First batch costs more due to ingredient purchase, but subsequent batches cost only $2.50 as you use existing supplies.