Dandelion Root Tea

Dandelion root makes an earthy herbal tea with a gently bitter finish. Simmering the chopped root in water brings out its flavour. Enjoy it plain, with a squeeze of lemon or with a little honey to soften the bitterness.

Using dandelion root

Use dried, chopped common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) root. If you gather your own, identify the whole plant before digging and choose a clean spot away from busy roads and treated ground.

Scrub the roots well, then chop and dry them completely. This recipe uses the root rather than the leaves or flowers.

Glass mug of amber dandelion root tea beside chopped dried dandelion root.

Dandelion Root Tea

An earthy, gently bitter herbal tea made by simmering dried dandelion root in water for 10 minutes.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Servings: 1 mug
Course: Drinks
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tsp Dried dandelion root chopped
  • 250 ml water
  • 1 Thin slice of fresh ginger or a small piece of cinnamon stick optional
  • Honey or a squeeze of lemon to taste, optional

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Mug

Method
 

  1. Put the dried dandelion root and water in a small saucepan. If using ginger or cinnamon, add it now.
  2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes.
  3. Strain into a mug. Taste and add a little honey or a squeeze of lemon, if you like.

Notes

Root: Use dried, chopped root for the stated quantity. Roasted dandelion root gives the tea a toastier flavour.
Yield: This makes one mug. The finished volume may be slightly less than 250 ml because some water evaporates during simmering.
Before use: Avoid dandelion root if you are allergic to plants in the daisy family. It is not recommended if you have gallstones, other bile duct problems or liver disease. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a healthcare professional before using dandelion root tea.

Serving Tips

Try the first sip plain so you can taste the root’s earthy bitterness. A little honey softens it, while lemon adds a brighter note.

If you want to taste the dandelion root on its own, leave out the ginger and cinnamon the first time. Add one of them to your next cup if you prefer a warmer, spiced flavour.

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