Chaga is naturally formed in chunks, grown on the side of birch trees throughout the northern hemisphere. Traditionally Chaga chunks are brewed over a period of hours to release it's medicinal properties, the darker the brew the higher the potency.
With Chaga powder, the process is reduced significantly due to the increased surface area achieving more intense flavours faster. With that said, here are two great ways to use your Chaga powder.
Chaga Tea
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Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of Chaga powder to a reusable tea bag, tea infuser or even directly to your cup
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Brew the Chaga powder in near boiling water for around 10 to 15 minutes
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Remove tea bag, infuser steeper or filter out the ground Chaga with a strainer if using direct to cup method.
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Drink the tea while still hot, with the option of adding maple syrup or honey for those with a sweet tooth.
Chaga tea can also be served chilled. You can make larger batches to store in the fridge for up to 3 days, perfect for summer months. Let's not forget, those trying to cut down on coffee, milk can also be added to your brewed Chaga as an alternative to your morning coffee.
Chaga Coffee Blend
If you can't let go of that morning coffee ritual, don't worry, why not use Chaga with your coffee?
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When using ground coffee in a dispenser, simply reduce your typical amount of coffee by half and replace with ground Chaga powder
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Brew the coffee/chaga blend for around 10 minutes
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Pour the into a cup and enjoy with your choice of milk, or not.
This is a great way to enhance your morning routine by including the medicinal benefits of Chaga to your coffee, also giving it a nice earthy flavour to kick-start your morning.