National Dish Haiti: Thé Citronnelle (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Thé Citronnelle, Haiti’s cherished lemongrass tea and one of the most refreshing drinks in the Caribbean. Made from the fragrant leaves of lemongrass, this simple brew fills the kitchen with a bright, citrus aroma and can be enjoyed piping hot or poured over ice on a warm afternoon. Naturally vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free, it is as gentle on the body as it is on the spirit — a soothing cupful of Haitian hospitality.
About Thé Citronnelle
Thé Citronnelle, or lemongrass tea, is a refreshing drink that holds a special, traditional place in Haiti. The tea is brewed from the aromatic leaves of lemongrass, a plant prized not only for its distinctive flavour but also for its wellbeing benefits. Lemongrass is rich in antioxidants and has soothing, anti-inflammatory properties that can contribute to a greater sense of comfort. On top of that, the tea is wonderfully easy to make and suits any time of day, whether as a morning pick-me-up or a calming evening cup.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 cups water
- 1–2 stalks fresh lemongrass (or 1–2 teaspoons dried lemongrass)
- Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
- Fresh mint (optional, to garnish)
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for Thé Citronnelle are easy to track down and should be available in most supermarkets or Asian grocery shops. When buying lemongrass, look for stalks that appear fresh and juicy, as this makes a real difference to the quality of the tea. For a sweeter cup you can reach for honey or sugar, with honey offering the more wholesome choice. Do not forget to pick up some fresh mint if you would like to give your tea an extra aromatic lift.
Preparing the dish
Getting ready to make Thé Citronnelle is straightforward and takes only a few steps. First, wash the lemongrass well and peel away the tough outer layers. Then chop the stalks into small pieces to help release their aromas. If you are using dried lemongrass, you simply need to measure it out. Prepare your sweetener too, if you plan to use one, so everything is ready when the water comes to the boil.
Step-by-step instructions
- Bring 2 cups of water to a gentle boil in a small saucepan.
- Add the prepared lemongrass and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Take the pan off the heat and allow the tea to steep for a further 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine sieve to remove the lemongrass.
- Stir in honey or sugar to taste.
- Serve the tea hot, or let it cool and enjoy it chilled over ice.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Thé Citronnelle is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, as none of its ingredients contain grains or dairy. This makes the tea an excellent choice for anyone with food intolerances or for those following a vegan diet. If you fancy adding extra flavour, you can use alternative plant-based sweeteners or spices as needed, all of which are equally gluten-free. That keeps the tea not only delicious but also wonderfully easy on the stomach for everyone.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Thé Citronnelle is entirely suitable for vegans and vegetarians. Simply use plant-based sweeteners such as maple syrup or agave nectar to give the tea a touch of sweetness. These options let you vary the flavour while keeping the drink completely free of animal products. You can also experiment with different herbs or berries, which add a new dimension to the tea and fit beautifully into a balanced, plant-based way of eating.
More tips and tricks
To experience the full aroma of Thé Citronnelle, use the freshest ingredients you can find, as these bring out more intense flavours. Take care to gently bruise the lemongrass before adding it to the water; this helps release the essential oils that enrich the tea’s taste. Playing with different steeping times and water temperatures can also lead to interesting flavour variations. Let your creativity run free and find the brew that suits you best.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
One of the great things about Thé Citronnelle is its versatility. You can adjust the strength of the tea by changing the amount of lemongrass or the steeping time. If you prefer a milder flavour, use less lemongrass or shorter cooking times. For a more pronounced aroma, add extra herbs such as ginger or chamomile. This way you can make sure every sip matches your own personal taste.
Ingredient substitutions
If you cannot find fresh lemongrass, do not be discouraged. As an alternative, you can use lemon balm or green tea to achieve a similar flavour. These herbs also have fresh, citrusy notes that harmonise well with the tea. If you would rather not use honey, other natural sweeteners such as stevia or date syrup make a great, wholesome choice. This lets you adapt the recipe to whatever is available and to your own preferences.
Drink pairing ideas
Thé Citronnelle pairs beautifully with a range of treats. Try it as a refreshing companion to a tropical cocktail, or simply enjoy it alongside a slice of fruit cake. The tea also goes well with smoothies and fruity bowls. It can even form part of a cooling summer drink to serve at your next garden party. For a citrus-forward pairing, set it beside a glass of Boisson Citronnee, and these combinations bring out the lemongrass aroma wonderfully.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation can lift the whole Thé Citronnelle experience considerably. Serve the tea in clear glasses so its lovely golden colour can shine through. Add a few fresh mint leaves or a slice of lemon as a garnish for an extra touch of freshness. A charming teapot can also add to the presentation and highlight the cultural tradition of tea drinking. Make sure your tea set is clean and in good condition to leave a polished impression.
A bit of history
Thé Citronnelle carries a valued cultural meaning in Haiti and is deeply woven into Caribbean life. The tea is traditionally served in many Haitian households and often forms part of family celebrations and social gatherings, in the spirit of dishes such as Griot and Soup Joumou. Its preparation symbolises hospitality and the bond between family and friends. Over time the tea has also spread internationally and is often prized for its wellbeing benefits, adding to its popularity as a proud part of Haitian cuisine. In this way it brings a piece of Haitian culture straight to the cup.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Thé Citronnelle
Thé Citronnelle is more than just a tea — it is a piece of Haitian culture that is simple to make and full of intense aromas. With its wellbeing benefits and its versatile adaptability, it is a perfect choice for tea lovers and adventurous cooks alike. Whether served hot or cold, this refreshing herbal tea brings Caribbean joie de vivre straight to your cup. Let it inspire you and discover the world of Thé Citronnelle in your own kitchen.
