Dandelion Tea

In my newest book, But I Love My Mom Too, Annie's mom smells like dandelion tea. That detail didn't come from my own mom, but from my grandma, who always smelled like tea and jelly beans—a scent that felt like comfort and home.

So when someone asked me if you can really make dandelion tea, I smiled. Yes, you can. My grandad even made dandelion wine back in the day. Annie, however, would absolutely turn her nose up at that. Dandelion tea, though? That's exactly her kind of thing.

Dandelion Tea

Ingredients

• 2 tsp. Fresh dandelion leaves or roots (organic, pesticide-free)

• 1 C Water

• Honey

Optional additions: honey, lemon, cinnamon stick, or fresh mint

Instructions

If Using Dandelion Leaves

1. Harvest young, tender dandelion leaves from a clean area away from roads or treated lawns.

2. Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt and debris.

3. Boil water. Add leaves. 

4. Simmer for 10 minutes

5. Strain into a mug and sweeten with honey as desired.