make 8 treasures tea (ba bao cha) with me
make 8 treasures tea (ba bao cha) with me is a easy Chinese recipe that serves 1. 20 calories per serving. Recipe by Vicky Phan on YouTube.
Prep: 2 min | Cook: 6 min | Total: 13 min
Cost: $13.99 total, $13.99 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 bag Eight Treasure Tea Blend (pre‑made bag) (Typical blend includes goji berries, red dates, chrysanthemum flowers, rose petals, licorice root, longan, hawthorn, and dried orange peel.)
- 8 oz Water (Hot, just off the boil (≈200°F / 93°C).)
Instructions
Boil Water
Fill the electric kettle with fresh water and bring it to a rolling boil.
Time: PT2M
Temperature: 200°F
Prepare Mug
Place the eight‑treasure tea bag into your mug or tea cup.
Time: PT30S
Add Hot Water
Pour the hot water over the tea bag, filling the mug to about 8 oz.
Time: PT30S
Temperature: 200°F
Steep
Let the tea steep for 5–7 minutes, depending on how strong you like the flavor.
Time: PT6M
Finish and Serve
Remove the tea bag (or infuser) and enjoy the tea warm. Optionally sweeten with a touch of honey.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 20
- Protein
- 0 g
- Carbohydrates
- 5 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Eight Treasure Tea Blend (pre‑made bag): DIY blend of the individual herbs listed above
Equipment Needed
- Electric Kettle
- Mug or Tea Cup
- Tea Spoon or Small Ladle (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Steeping for the correct 5‑7 minutes to balance flavor and avoid bitterness.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Add a slice of fresh ginger to the water for an extra warming effect and additional anti‑inflammatory benefits.
- For a sweeter profile, stir in a drizzle of honey or a splash of almond milk after steeping.
- Toast the dried herbs lightly (2‑3 minutes) before steeping for a deeper, roasted flavor.
Troubleshooting
Tea tastes weak or watery.
Increase steeping time to 7 minutes or use a fresh tea bag. Ensure water is near boiling (200°F).
Tea becomes overly bitter.
Reduce steeping time to 5 minutes and remove the bag promptly. Do not reuse the same bag.
Tea bag falls apart in hot water.
Place the bag in a tea infuser or use a fine mesh strainer to contain loose herbs.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store any leftover brewed tea in a sealed container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended; flavor degrades.
Room temperature: Keep the dry tea bags in an airtight container away from light and moisture.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Brew a larger batch (e.g., 4 cups) and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently or enjoy cold.
- Keep the tea bags sealed in a dry place to preserve flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Eight Treasure Beauty Tea in Chinese wellness traditions?
Eight Treasure Tea (八宝茶) has been enjoyed for centuries in China as a medicinal blend that balances the body's qi. The eight ingredients each represent a different health benefit—such as blood nourishment, liver support, and skin vitality—making the tea a holistic beauty tonic.
What are the traditional regional variations of Eight Treasure Tea in China?
In northern China the blend often emphasizes dried fruits like red dates and goji berries, while southern versions may add lotus leaf or chrysanthemum for cooling properties. Some regions substitute hawthorn with mulberry leaves for a sweeter taste.
How is Eight Treasure Beauty Tea traditionally served in Chinese culture?
Traditionally the tea is served hot in small porcelain cups during family gatherings or after meals to aid digestion. It is also offered to guests as a sign of hospitality and to promote health and longevity.
What occasions or celebrations is Eight Treasure Beauty Tea associated with in Chinese culture?
Eight Treasure Tea is commonly prepared during festivals such as the Mid‑Autumn Festival and Chinese New Year, when families seek foods that symbolize abundance and good health. It is also served during birthday celebrations for its reputed anti‑aging benefits.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in Eight Treasure Beauty Tea versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include goji berries, red dates, chrysanthemum flowers, rose petals, licorice root, longan, hawthorn, and dried orange peel. If any are unavailable, you can substitute dried apricots for longan, or use dried hibiscus in place of chrysanthemum for a similar tart note.
What other Chinese dishes pair well with Eight Treasure Beauty Tea?
The tea pairs nicely with light dim sum, steamed buns, or a simple congee breakfast. Its gentle sweetness also complements mildly spiced dishes like stir‑fried bok choy or tofu with black bean sauce.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Eight Treasure Beauty Tea at home?
Common errors include using water that isn’t hot enough, over‑steeping which creates bitterness, and reusing the same tea bag which reduces flavor and health benefits. Follow the 5‑7 minute steep time and use freshly boiled water for best results.
Why does this Eight Treasure Beauty Tea recipe use a pre‑made tea bag instead of loose herbs?
A pre‑made bag simplifies preparation, ensures the correct proportion of each ingredient, and prevents the herbs from scattering in the cup. It also makes cleanup faster, which is ideal for a quick daily wellness routine.
Can I make Eight Treasure Beauty Tea ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, brew a larger batch and keep it in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently or enjoy it cold; avoid boiling the stored tea as it can degrade delicate flavors.
What does the YouTube channel Vicky Phan specialize in?
The YouTube channel Vicky Phan focuses on Asian-inspired home cooking, beauty‑from‑inside recipes, and practical DIY food hacks that help viewers save money while enjoying authentic flavors.
How does the YouTube channel Vicky Phan's approach to Chinese wellness cooking differ from other cooking channels?
Vicky Phan emphasizes affordable, ingredient‑focused recipes that blend traditional Chinese health concepts with modern lifestyle needs. She often demonstrates how to source ingredients at local Asian markets and adapts classic formulas for busy home cooks.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
