Egyptian yellow tea (helba, shambhala, fenugreek) is not as popular as other types of this drink. It is made from the seeds of the Shambhala plant. Beans with seeds develop from the flowers of this plant. Recipes for making yellow tea have already been described in ancient Egyptian scrolls. Hippocrates himself used the healing properties of seeds in his practice.
In Egypt, helba is used not only for making tea, but also as a seasoning for various dishes. In general, helba is not tea, because it has nothing to do with
tea bushes . But historically, the decoction of these seeds is called tea. By the way, there is also Chinese yellow tea, which has nothing to do with Egyptian.
Egyptian yellow tea: properties
Regular use of this drink in moderation helps to stabilize the intestines, restore its microflora. It is useful for the stomach, liver, kidneys, spleen.
The seeds contain B, A, D, E vitamins, minerals such as potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, calcium, sulfur. Its components make the muscles more elastic. In general, it helps to strengthen the immune system and gives vitality. Therefore, Egyptian yellow tea is recommended to drink with a breakdown and during bouts of weakness. Helps with bronchitis and colds, as it has expectorant properties that are superior to any medication. It is also an excellent means of quenching thirst. Seedlings cleanse and disinfect the kidneys, liver and blood. After scientific research by the European Scientific Society for Herbal Medicine, seeds were included in the list of diabetes medications and cholesterol reduction.
Taste
Experts have different opinions about the taste of this tea, but they agree that it is unique. By smell, it resembles vanilla to some, nutmeg to others, ginger to the third, and spicy cheese to some.
How to make Egyptian yellow tea?
The famous method of brewing "in Russian" for helba is not suitable. This tea must be prepared correctly. Hard seeds with simple boiling with boiling water will not give up their color, taste and aroma. Therefore, they must be cooked over low heat for about 15 minutes. Seeds during cooking begin to spin and gradually unfold, giving the aroma and color to the water. Depending on the strength of tea you want to get, the number of seeds is taken. On average, 1-1.5 tablespoons are required per cup of drink.
Also, Egyptian yellow tea can be brewed in another way. Two teaspoons of seeds are poured into a glass of boiling water and left for 7-8 minutes. The readiness of tea is evidenced by a characteristic yellow color. This method of preparation is simpler, but the taste will be inferior to the brewed drink. You can add honey, cinnamon, lemon or ginger to tea. Many people like to brew Egyptian yellow tea not with water, but with milk.
disadvantages
The main disadvantage of the drink is that after its use, the sweat acquires a wormwood smell. But this is a temporary effect that passes quickly. In extreme cases, you can always take a shower.