Published:
Nov 25th 2021
by 
Nutritionally reviewed by 
Last updated: Nov 2nd 2025
Cerasee Tea is a traditional Caribbean herbal drink celebrated for its bold, bitter flavor and soothing qualities. This simple recipe uses dried cerasee leaves, known for their unique taste and potential health benefits, making it a perfect choice for a warm, relaxing moment. Enjoy it hot or chilled, and customize it with ginger or lemon for an extra touch of flavor.
Pro Tip This recipe offers a unique blend of bold flavors and soothing qualities, making it a delightful addition to your tea collection. It's easy to prepare and can be enjoyed hot or chilled, allowing for versatility in serving. Customize it with ginger or lemon for added zest, and savor the traditional benefits of cerasee.
Key nutrients
- Antioxidants: from cerasee leaves — May help protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Vitamin C: from lemon slice — Supports immune function and helps absorb iron from foods.
- Gingerols: from ginger — Can add anti-inflammatory properties and aid digestion.
Why it matters
- Herbal teas like this can be a hydrating, low-calorie beverage choice.
- Plant compounds in cerasee and ginger may offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Lemon adds a fresh flavor and a small vitamin C boost.
Balance & portion
Aim for a balanced plate (vegetables, protein, smart carbs). Choose portions that fit your needs.
What to watch
- Bitterness — Cerasee tea is naturally bitter; adjust steeping time or add honey to taste.
- Added sugars — Using sugar or honey increases sweetness and calories; use sparingly if desired.
- Not for everyone — Cerasee tea may not be suitable during pregnancy or for certain health conditions.
Make it even better
- Add fresh mint or basil for extra antioxidants and refreshing flavor.
- Use honey or agave in moderation to limit added sugars.
- Pair with a light snack for balanced energy, especially if drinking on an empty stomach.
- Try coconut milk for creaminess and a new flavor profile without extra sugar.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
References
- Healthline — Cerasse Tea Health Benefits - Source for cerasee tea’s traditional uses and potential benefits.
Best fit
- Vegan: Contains only plant-based ingredients when sweetened with sugar or agave.
- Gluten Free: No wheat or gluten-containing ingredients are used.
- Low Fat: Naturally very low in fat, especially if served without added sweeteners.
- Low Sodium: No added salt or high-sodium ingredients included.
Use with caution / avoid
- Added sugars: Sweetening with sugar or honey may not suit diabetic or low-sugar diets; use unsweetened if needed.
- Pregnancy: Cerasee tea is traditionally avoided during pregnancy; consult a healthcare provider before use.
Helpful modifications
- Use agave or maple syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetener option.
- Skip added sweeteners to keep the tea suitable for diabetic-friendly diets.
- Add extra lemon for more vitamin C and a brighter flavor without sugar.
- Serve chilled with fresh mint for a refreshing, sugar-free twist.
Pair with: A small serving of fresh fruit or a handful of unsalted nuts to add fiber and healthy fats.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
References
- Healthline — Nutrition - Used for background on cerasee tea’s traditional uses and cautions.
No major allergens detected based on the listed ingredients. Always check labels for hidden allergens in sauces or blends.
Notes are based on the listed ingredients; always verify brand labels and local regulations. Swaps may require adjusting cook time and steps; the original recipe isn’t tailored to substitutions.
Clean
- Wash your hands with soap and water before handling ingredients.
- Rinse fresh ginger, lemon, and any fresh cerasee leaves under running water.
- Clean all utensils, strainers, and the saucepan before use.
Separate
- Keep raw produce separate from other foods to avoid cross-contamination.
- Use a clean cutting board for slicing ginger and lemon.
Cook
- Bring water to a full boil before adding cerasee leaves to ensure safety.
- Steep tea covered to prevent contamination from airborne particles.
Chill
- Cool leftover tea quickly and refrigerate within 2 hours.
- Store in a clean, airtight container and use within 2 days.
References
- CDC — Food Safety - General food safety practices for home preparation.
- Cerasee tea is prized in Caribbean households for its bold, bitter flavor and is often enjoyed both hot and cold.
- The drink is traditionally made from dried leaves of the bitter melon vine, known locally as cerasee.
- Adding ginger or lemon can mellow the bitterness and introduce extra layers of flavor to the tea.
- Cerasee tea is typically served without milk, highlighting its herbal notes and natural bitterness.
Name & origins
This recipe has roots in Caribbean cuisine, where cerasee tea is a staple herbal beverage.
Ingredient spotlight
- Cerasee leaves: Provide a distinctively bitter, earthy base for the tea.
- Ginger: Adds warmth and a spicy kick that balances the bitterness.
- Lemon: Offers a fresh, citrusy note that brightens the overall flavor.
Technique tidbit
Steeping the leaves after boiling helps extract robust flavors while controlling bitterness based on steeping time.
Before you start
- Gather all ingredients and equipment for smooth preparation.
- Ensure your saucepan is clean and ready for boiling water.
- Use fresh cerasee leaves if available for enhanced flavor.
During cooking
- Watch for a rolling boil before adding cerasee leaves.
- Adjust steeping time based on your desired bitterness.
- Avoid oversteeping to prevent excessive bitterness.
Make-ahead & storage
- Prepare the tea in advance and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently to maintain the flavor without overheating.
Common mistakes
- Steeping too long → Reduce steeping time for a milder taste.
- Not straining properly → Ensure all leaves are removed before serving.
Serve with
- Whole grain crackers or a light rice cake for a satisfying crunch.
- A fresh garden salad with citrus dressing to complement the tea's bitterness.
- Honey or ginger dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Toppings & textures
- Fresh mint leaves or basil for a refreshing herbal contrast.
- A dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat if desired.
Occasions
- This recipe shines during warm afternoons or casual gatherings.
Substitutions
- If you lack dried cerasee leaves, use fresh leaves for a more intense flavor and potential health benefits.
- For a vegan option, substitute honey with agave syrup for a sweeter taste without animal products.
Variations
- In Jamaica, cerasee tea is often brewed with lime juice for a zesty twist that enhances its bitterness.
- Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy texture that balances the tea's bold flavors.
Refrigerate
- Cool the tea to room temperature and store in an airtight container.
- Use within 2 days for the best flavor and quality.
Freeze
- Freezing not recommended as the tea may lose its flavor and texture.
Reheat
- Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat until steaming hot throughout.
- Add a splash of water if needed to adjust consistency.
Repurpose ideas
- Use leftover tea as a base for smoothies for a unique flavor boost.
- Incorporate it into marinades for meats or vegetables for added depth.
- Dried Cerasee Leaves: These leaves provide the base flavor, known for their bold bitterness and herbal qualities.
- Water: Serves as the solvent to extract flavors and beneficial compounds from the cerasee leaves.
- Ginger Slices: Adds a spicy warmth that enhances flavor and may aid digestion.
- Lemon Slice: Offers a fresh, citrusy note that brightens the tea and adds vitamin C.
Can I use fresh cerasee leaves instead of dried?
Yes, fresh cerasee leaves can be used and may offer a more intense flavor than dried leaves.
How bitter is cerasee tea?
Cerasee tea has a naturally bitter taste, which can be adjusted by the steeping time or by adding honey or lemon for balance.
Is cerasee tea safe for daily use?
Cerasee tea can be enjoyed regularly but is typically consumed in moderation due to its potent effects. Consult a healthcare provider if you have health concerns.
What are the health benefits of Cerasee Tea?
- Antioxidant Properties: Cerasee tea, made from the bitter melon plant, is rich in antioxidants, which may help protect against cell damage.
- Potential Diabetes Support: In traditional medicine, cerasee is used to help manage blood sugar, though scientific research is limited.
- Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial Effects: Contains saponins that may provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
- Traditional Uses: Widely used in the Caribbean to manage high blood pressure and detoxify the body. However, more human research is needed to fully confirm its health effects.
Note: Due to potential side effects, pregnant people, those trying to conceive, and individuals with certain health conditions should avoid cerasee tea.
While cerasee tea likely contains plant compounds with potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, its impact on human health remains uncertain.
Time & Serves
Ingredients
2 teaspoons dried Cerasee leaves
500 ml water
Sugar Or Honey to taste
1 teaspoon Ginger sliced
1 slice of lemon
Instructions
Place the water in a sauce pan and bring it to a boil on high heat.
Once the water is boiling, add the leaves and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Remove from the heat, cover and let steep for at least 5 minutes or longer for a stronger, more bitter tea flavor.
Strain the water to remove the leaves, then sweeten with sugar or honey and serve warm or chilled with ice.
Add the Ginger slices to the boiling water with the Cerasee leaves and continue with instructions.
Add a slice of lemon to iced cerasee tea.
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Can I use fresh cerasee…
Can I use fresh cerasee leaves or do they have to b dry