Spruce Needle Vitamin Drink

This invigorating spruce needle vitamin drink harnesses the natural goodness of pine needles to create a unique and refreshing beverage. It's a nourishing option, especially during the colder months, offering a natural way to boost your vitamin intake. The gentle flavors of the infusion pair well with honey or lemon, enhancing its taste while offering additional health benefits. With just two main ingredients—spruce needles and water—this drink showcases the simplicity and wonders of nature. The waiting period for the infusion allows the flavors and beneficial properties to meld together, creating a soothing and aromatic drink. Perfect for those seeking an intriguing herbal concoction, this drink invites you to appreciate the potential of indigenous ingredients. Ideal for a morning pick-me-up or a calming evening sip, it seamlessly fits into a health-conscious lifestyle. Whether shared with friends or enjoyed in solitude, it's a delightful experience in a cup.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1-2 handfuls of spruce needles
1 liter of water

Optional Enhancements:

Honey to taste
Lemon slices

Preparation Time

Total Time: 500 minutes (including overnight infusion)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Rinse the spruce branches under flowing water to remove any dirt or impurities. Ensure that the needles are clean and fresh.
Use scissors to cut the branches into smaller segments. Focus on trimming the larger branches to separate the needles.
Boil water until it reaches a rolling boil, then let it cool slightly to reach a temperature between 60-70 degrees Celsius.
Add two generous pinches of the prepared spruce needles into a thermos. This quantity is typically suitable for one person.
Pour the hot water over the needles in the thermos, sealing it tightly to allow the infusion process to begin.
Leave the mixture to steep overnight, allowing the flavors and vitamins to fully integrate.
In the morning, strain the infusion to remove the needles, yielding a clear, aromatic drink.
Enhance the flavor with a teaspoon of honey or a slice of lemon, as desired, to personalize your drink.
Serve the drink warm or let it cool to a preferred temperature before consuming.
Enjoy the drink as part of a healthy diet, both for its distinctive taste and its nutritional benefits.

Tips:

Choose fresh, green spruce needles for the best results.
Avoid boiling the needles directly to maintain full vitamin integrity.
Use a clean thermos to keep the drink warm during the infusion period.
For a stronger flavor, add more needles or extend the infusion time.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 10 per serving
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g

Variations

For a different aroma, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a clove during the infusion process.
For those avoiding honey, maple syrup or agave can be suitable sweeteners.
Experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or lime for diverse flavor profiles.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this drink with a light breakfast such as oatmeal or yogurt for a balanced start to the day.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a lemon twist for a decorative touch.
Enjoy alongside herbal teas or biscuit snacks during an afternoon tea session.

Best Places

Spruce & Spice Café - Known for its herbal beverages and cozy ambiance. Location: 123 Elm Street, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Nature's Elixir Bar - Offers a variety of plant-based drinks, including spruce infusions. Location: 45 Greenway Avenue, Toronto, Canada.
The Herbal House - Praised for its unique approach to beverages using local ingredients. Location: 78 Willow Lane, Wellington, New Zealand.
Pine & Petal Tea Room - Specializes in aromatic herbal infusions amidst a quaint setting. Location: 37 Oak Street, Seattle, USA.
Nordic Sips Bistro - Features traditional Northern European flavors in all its offerings. Location: 99 Birch Boulevard, Stockholm, Sweden.
Zen Brew Café - Known for promoting wellness through mindful coffee and tea experiences. Location: 14 Peace Avenue, Kyoto, Japan.
The Evergreen Bar - Combines botanical ingredients with modern culinary techniques. Location: 56 Forest Lane, Zurich, Switzerland.
Forest Flavors Inn - A favorite spot offering an eclectic mix of natural drinks. Location: 12 Cedar Row, Oslo, Norway.
Wild Herb Den - Celebrated for its commitment to organic and locally-sourced beverages. Location: 22 Heathery Road, Dublin, Ireland.
Roots & Blooms Lounge - Offers a diverse menu with a focus on innovative drink pairings. Location: 65 Prime Path, Sydney, Australia.