Teh sereh has a way of slowing things down.

The aroma comes first—fresh, slightly citrusy, and clean—before the taste even hits.

It's not heavy or overly sweet, just a gentle blend that feels easy to drink at any time of day. Once you try it, it quickly becomes one of those simple recipes you keep coming back to.

What you'll need

This drink keeps things minimal, which is part of its appeal.

Ingredients:

1. Lemongrass stalks – 2 to 3 (fresh)

2. Black tea leaves or tea bags – 1 to 2 teaspoons or 1 bag

3. Water – 2 cups (about 500 ml)

4. Sugar or sweetener – 1 to 2 teaspoons (optional)

5. Ice cubes – 1 cup (for iced version)

Optional additions:

• A slice of lime for a brighter taste

• Honey for a softer sweetness

Preparing the lemongrass

Start by washing the lemongrass thoroughly. Trim off the dry ends and lightly press the stalks with the back of a spoon. This step helps release the natural aroma and flavor.

Cut the stalks into shorter pieces so they fit easily into your cooking container. You don't need to slice them too finely—keeping them in chunks works just fine.

Brewing the tea

Bring the water to a gentle boil, then add the lemongrass pieces. Let them simmer for about 5–7 minutes. This allows the flavor to infuse into the water without becoming too strong.

Next, add the tea leaves or tea bag. Turn off the heat and let it steep for another 3–5 minutes. This keeps the tea balanced and prevents it from becoming too intense.

Once done, remove the tea bag or strain out the leaves and lemongrass pieces. Stir in your sweetener while the liquid is still warm so it dissolves smoothly.

Serving it your way

For a warm version, simply pour the tea into a cup and enjoy it as is. The aroma is more noticeable when it's warm, making it feel calm and comforting.

If you prefer it cold, let the tea cool slightly, then pour it over a glass filled with ice. Adding a slice of lime at this stage gives it a slightly brighter edge, especially on warmer days.

You can also adjust the strength by adding a bit more water if the flavor feels too concentrated.

Tips for a better result

Fresh lemongrass makes a noticeable difference. It has a cleaner and more vibrant aroma compared to dried versions. If possible, choose stalks that feel firm and look slightly pale green.

Avoid over-boiling the tea after adding the tea leaves. Keeping the steeping gentle helps maintain a smoother taste.

If you want a lighter version, reduce the tea slightly and let the lemongrass take the lead. For a stronger tea base, do the opposite.

In the end, teh sereh is all about balance. It doesn't rely on strong flavors or complex steps—just a simple combination that comes together naturally. Once you get the rhythm of it, making a cup feels almost effortless.