Toasted Rye Tea

Background

This recipe uses toasted rye berries to make a simple grain tea that can be served hot or cold.

Recipe

This is as simple as it is delicious.

We sourced rye berries from Castle Valley Mill. We toast them in a pan, on low-medium heat, until the berries develop a light golden hue and are lightly aromatic.

Add water, bring to a gentle boil, lower to medium heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.

Serve warm or cold over ice.

Notes

There are a few other possible preparations and techniques for Rye Tea.

1. Toasted rye tea with rye amazake. Use just the liquid of the amazake, for a clear drink that is both nutty and sweet.
2. Treating the rye berries like the rice in genmaicha. Boil, dried, roasted, and then steeped.
3. There are a few different methods for toasting the rye berries. Toasting them in the oven, at around 300°F, for 30 minutes will likely result in a more consistent toast.