Dawa, a beloved Kenyan hot drink, is the perfect remedy for chilly evenings. Made with ginger, honey, lemon, and sometimes a hint of garlic, this invigorating beverage is not only soothing but also packed with health benefits. To prepare it right, you’ll need essential tools like kettles for boiling and pestle-and-mortar sets for crushing fresh ingredients.
Why Dawa?
Dawa (Swahili for “medicine”) is cherished for its immune-boosting properties, making it an excellent choice for combating colds and keeping you warm on cold nights. The combination of fresh ginger and lemon with honey creates a delightful balance of zest and sweetness.
Tools You’ll Need
1. Kettles
A quality kettle ensures quick and efficient boiling of water for your Dawa.
- Recommended: Electric Kettles in Kenya
2. Pestle-and-Mortar Sets
Crushing fresh ginger and garlic releases more flavor and nutrients compared to pre-ground alternatives.
- Recommended: Durable Pestle and Mortar Sets
Quick and Easy Dawa Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh ginger (crushed)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)
- Optional: 1 clove garlic (crushed)
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Water
- Heat water in a kettle until it reaches a rolling boil.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
- Use a pestle-and-mortar set to crush the ginger (and garlic, if using) to release their natural juices.
Step 3: Brew the Dawa
- Transfer the boiled water to a mug. Add the crushed ginger and garlic. Let it steep for 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Lemon and Honey
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice and honey. Adjust sweetness to your preference.
Step 5: Serve Hot
- Strain the mixture into a clean mug, if desired, and enjoy your warm, refreshing Dawa.
Tips for Perfect Dawa
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and lemon provide maximum flavor and health benefits.
- Crush, Don’t Chop: Crushing ginger and garlic releases more oils and nutrients.
- Adjust to Taste: Add more honey or lemon to balance the flavors.
Why the Right Tools Matter
Using the right tools makes preparing Dawa quick and efficient:
- Kettles: Boil water faster and with less effort.
- Pestle-and-Mortar Sets: Unlock the full potential of fresh ingredients by crushing them effectively.
Conclusion
Dawa is the ultimate drink to keep you warm and healthy during chilly evenings. With a reliable kettle and a pestle-and-mortar set, preparing this traditional Kenyan remedy is a breeze.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the comforting warmth of a freshly made cup of Dawa!