Greeting Tea

adapted from The Herbal Kitchen by Jerry Traunfeld

• 2 quarts water
• 1 large bunch anise hyssop sprigs (2 ounces)
• 1 large bunch lemon verbena sprigs
• 3 TB mild honey

Bring the water to a full boil in a large saucepan. Stir in the herb sprigs, bending the stems first, if necessary. Remove the pan from the heat, cover it, and allow the herbs to steep for 15 minutes. Strain into a large pitcher and stir in the honey. Refrigerate until cold.

Note that this tea can also be made as a “sun tea” by placing the cold water and herbs in a large, covered jar or bottle, and setting the mix in full sun for three to six hours. You can also experiment with other herbs, such as fennel, lemon balm, and rosemary.