In Swahili, the language of Kenya, Dawa translates to “medicine”. This delicious and simple tea recipe has a pungent ginger taste sure to warm you up and soothe a sore throat. In Kenya it’s so popular that it’s often turned into a cocktail, but this is the perfect non-alcoholic recipe.
To turn this into a cocktail Kenyans will add whiskey and lime or sugar. In my opinion, the warm non-alcoholic tea is the best way to consume it and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
This post is all about the delicious Kenyan Dawa Tea!
During my time in Kenya, I drank Dawa everyday. Each Dawa was different and unique, but they all contained the same 4 ingredients applied in similar ways.
After asking for a recipe from a few different people, I realized that the most important step was grating the ginger. By grating it you get a much stronger flavor and that’s what makes it “Dawa”.
*Disclaimer* I am not a doctor, nor do I have medical training. This is what I learned from individuals in Kenya.
THE IMPORTANCE OF DAWA’S INGREDIENTS
Though there are only 4 ingredients, each serves an important purpose.
Freshly grated ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, relieves nausea and increases both serotonin and dopamine levels.
The vitamin C in the fresh lemon juice helps to relieve sore throat symptoms and fight viral infections.
The raw honey has antibacterial properties, eases throat pain and as a bonus, acts as a sweetener. The honey used in Kenya is Acacia honey, but any raw honey you can get your hands on will work.
The last ingredient is water, though it may seem simple, hydration is incredibly important when fighting any illness.
Kenyan Dawa Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 24 oz Water
- 2 tbsp Grated Ginger
- 2 tbsp Raw Honey
- 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
Instructions
- Grate ginger and add to a pot with water
- Bring to a boil
- Once boiling cover and reduce to a simmer for 30 minutes
- Based on preference either strain ginger water or skip to step 5
- Stir in lemon juice and honey until fully disolved
- Pour into two glasses and enjoy warm!
RENAE D LARCUS says
Just spent several days in Kenya and 3 of them with laryngitis. Had dawa at least twice a day. Yummy and therapeutic. I just got the recipe so I can make at home.
Jack says
a must in the cold winter months!
Sportmenu says
Wow, this was such a helpful read! The information you’ve shared is not only practical but also very relevant for
anyone working on healthier habits. I love how you explained
it all so clearly. I’m going to link to this article on my blog about diets and nutrition – I know my audience will find it just as valuable.
Thanks for the great work
Steven says
Fantastic! Just like I remember.
Julia says
This literally cured me!! Thank you for introducing this yumminess into my life. Can’t wait to see what other fun recipes you discover on your travels! Xx