The air in Xuan Ai Commune is abuzz with the earthy scent of cinnamon as we embrace the heart of the autumn harvest. Right now, our curved knives are peeling away bark, the clatter of busy hands and the swish of cinnamon leaves accompany us. You can almost taste the spice in the air—just like that first sip of cinnamon tea we can’t wait to enjoy.
Why Is Autumn the Best Time for Cinnamon?
Autumn, stretching from August through September, is when our cinnamon is richest in essential oils. The crisp mountain air and the cool, temperate climate nurture our trees, and at altitudes between 200 and 1000 meters, the cinnamon thrives. This exact season is when our green gold tree, or ‘cay vang xanh’, really shines. I won’t pretend I knew this when I started, but autumn’s bounty is unmatched, yielding the most aromatic bark perfect for our Vietnamese cinnamon and the perfect reason to share a cinnamon tea recipe with you.
What Are the Farmers Doing This Month?
This month, as the sun casts longer shadows, our bamboo racks are lined with cinnamon undergoing its sunbath, drying just enough to lock in the robust flavor. It’s a busy time in the commune. From sunrise to sunset, the farmers, including our beloved Dao ethnic community, are meticulously peeling, sorting, and crafting everything from bark sticks to powder. The leaves, not to be overlooked, are pressed for their precious oil. Every part of the tree is put to use, and nothing goes to waste.
How to Make the Perfect Cinnamon Tea
With the bounty resting in our hands, it’s time to turn it into something that warms the soul as much as it does the body. Let’s get to the cinnamon tea recipe — a tradition and a taste of our family’s legacy.
- Gather Your Ingredients:
- 1 cinnamon stick (from our Vietnamese cinnamon)
- 2 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon of black tea leaves (or a teabag)
- Honey or sugar, to taste
- A slice of lemon (optional)
- Directions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a small saucepan.
- Add the cinnamon stick to the boiling water. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the oils to infuse the water.
- Add the black tea leaves or teabag into the saucepan, and let it steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired strength. Remove the tea leaves or bag.
- Pour the tea into a cup, add honey or sugar as desired, and give it a good stir. If you like, toss in a slice of lemon for a zesty twist.
- Enjoy your warm, comforting cup of cinnamon tea.
5 Benefits of Our Cinnamon Tea
While it’s always tempting to enjoy tea just for its delightful taste, our cinnamon tea packs several benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Thanks to the high oil content of our autumn harvest.
- Boosts Metabolism: The natural properties of cinnamon aid digestion.
- Warmth and Comfort: Perfect for those chilly harvest evenings.
- Stress Relief: Its calming aroma helps soothe the mind.
- Immune Support: The tea’s nutrients help fend off seasonal sniffles.
Beyond Just a Cup of Tea
In our story, each harvest season is a reminder of the connection between the land, the trees, and our community’s commitment to preserving this tradition. When you sip our cinnamon tea, you’re tasting more than just a blend of flavors—you’re experiencing a piece of our legacy. This cinnamon tea recipe isn’t just about warmth in a cup; it’s about sharing a moment, a heritage, and the care of the farmers who have nurtured these trees for generations.
As we continue to peel, dry, and prepare our cinnamon for you, know that each stick is a token of Lao Cai’s deep-rooted history. Here’s to many comforting cups filled with the spirit of our village — and the hope that you’ll feel a little of our home wherever you are.