Why Winter Gur Chai Is a Must-Have? Health Benefits & Recipe

Consumption of jaggery tea, popularly known as gur chai, surges during the winter season as it offers the much-needed energy and warmth. The tea offers several health benefits that may include better immunity, improved digestion, soothing cold or cough, reduced inflammation, and better weight management. The tea has emerged a healthier alternative to sugar that can offer the required minerals along with natural sweetness. Presence of jaggery in the tea can effectively fight anemia as it is rich in iron and you can also notice improved metabolism. Given below are some benefits that you may receive:

Improved Digestion

The tea can stimulate digestive enzymes that eliminates constipation, bloating, and indigestion. One should sip the tea after heavy meal.

Loaded With Iron

The tea can improve the deficiency of iron due to the presence of jaggery that helps you fight anemia. Iron is significant for red blood cell production.

Improved Immunity

You may add spices such as ginger and clove along with jaggery for better immune function. It can offer you antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help you combat cold and flu.

Energy

Presence of jaggery in the tea provides fast and sustained energy.

Anti-inflammatory

It can alleviate inflammation and may offer relief in joint pain, respiratory issues such as bronchitis, and arthritis.

Weight Management

It helps in controlling sugar cravings, enhances metabolism, and helps you shed weight.

Detoxification

It can effectively help in eliminating harmful toxins from the body.

Skin Health

Minerals such as zinc and calcium in jaggery can help you get healthier skin.

Menstrual Relief

The warm nature of jaggery tea can effectively control blood flow and ease menstrual pain.

Gur Chai Recipe

Key Ingredients (Serves 2):

• 2 cups water

• 1 cup milk

• 2 teaspoons tea leaves (black tea)

• 1½–2 teaspoons grated gur (jaggery) or to taste

• ½ inch ginger (crushed)

• 2–3 cardamom pods (crushed) 

• A pinch of cinnamon or cloves (optional)

 Method To Prepare

• In a pan, add water and bring it to a boil.

• Add crushed ginger, cardamom, and any optional spices. Let it boil for 1–2 minutes so the flavors infuse well.

• Add the tea leaves and boil for another minute on medium flame.

• Pour in the milk and let the tea simmer for 2–3 minutes until it gets a rich color.

• Turn off the heat and add grated gur (jaggery). Do not boil after adding gur, as boiling can affect its taste and nutrients.

• Stir well until the jaggery dissolves completely.

• Strain into cups and serve hot.

Things To Remember:

• Always add gur after switching off the flame for best taste

• You can adjust the milk quantity based on how strong you like your tea.

• You may add a few tulsi leaves increased immunity during winter.

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.