Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Recipe (Blue Pea Tea / Aparajita Tea)

Butterfly pea flower tea recipe, also popularly known as blue pea tea or aparajita flower tea, is a naturally caffeine-free herbal drink famous for its deep blue color and calming properties. This stunning blue tea has been used for centuries in traditional Asian cultures, not just as a beverage but also as a natural food color and wellness drink.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn how to make butterfly pea flower tea, its origin, benefits, ingredients, step-by-step method, variations, and useful tips — everything you need to prepare perfect blue tea at home.

What Is Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Recipe?

Butterfly pea flower tea is made from dried flowers of the Clitoria ternatea plant, commonly known as butterfly pea or aparajita in India. When steeped in hot water, these flowers release a beautiful deep blue color, creating what we call blue tea.

One of the most fascinating features of this tea is its color-changing effect. When you add lemon juice, the blue tea turns purple or violet due to a natural pH reaction — making it visually magical and Instagram-worthy.

Origin & Cultural History of Blue Pea Tea

The origin of butterfly pea flower tea can be traced back to Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. In these regions, blue pea flowers have been traditionally used in:

• Herbal teas
• Ayurvedic & folk medicine
• Natural food coloring for rice and desserts
• Religious rituals and offerings

In India, aparajita flowers hold spiritual significance and are commonly used in Ayurveda for memory enhancement, stress relief, and overall wellness.

Today, blue pea tea has gained global popularity as a natural detox drink and a caffeine-free alternative to regular tea.

Blue Tea Ingredients

To prepare authentic blue pea tea, you need very simple ingredients:

• 5–6 dried butterfly pea flowers
• 1 cup hot water
• Honey or jaggery (optional, for sweetness)
• Lemon juice (optional, for color change and flavor)

These blue tea ingredients are easily available online or at herbal stores.

How to Make Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Recipe (Step-by-Step)

If you’re wondering how to make butterfly pea flower tea, follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Heat the Water

Bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Once boiled, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly (hot, not boiling).

Step 2: Add the Flowers

Add dried butterfly pea flowers to the hot water. You’ll instantly notice the water turning deep blue.

Step 3: Steep

Cover and let the flowers steep for 5–7 minutes. The longer you steep, the deeper the color and flavor.

Step 4: Strain

Strain the tea into a cup and discard the flowers.

Step 5: Customize

Add honey or jaggery if desired. Squeeze a few drops of lemon juice to see the tea change from blue to purple.

That’s it — your homemade blue pea tea recipe is ready!

🍋 How to Make Blue Tea with Lemon (Color-Changing Magic)

Many people search how to make blue tea with lemon because of its stunning visual effect.

Simply add:

• ½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice

As soon as lemon is added, the tea changes color due to acidity — a natural and chemical-free reaction. This makes aparajita flower tea perfect for serving guests.

❄️ Iced Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Variation

You can also enjoy this tea chilled:

• Prepare the tea as usual
• Let it cool completely
• Add ice cubes
• Add lemon slices and honey

This refreshing iced version is perfect for summers.

💡 Tips for Perfect Blue Pea Tea

• Do not overboil the flowers; steeping is enough
• Use glass cups to enjoy the color fully
• Adjust steeping time based on desired strength
• Store dried flowers in an airtight container

🌿 Taste Profile

Butterfly pea flower tea recipe has a very mild, earthy taste, similar to green tea but without bitterness. It absorbs flavors well, which is why lemon, ginger, or honey pairs beautifully with it.

🏺 Storage & Shelf Life

• Brewed tea: Consume fresh or refrigerate for up to 24 hours
• Dried flowers: Last 6–12 months when stored properly

✨ Why Butterfly Pea Flower Tea Recipe Is So Popular

• Naturally caffeine-free
• Beautiful natural blue color
• Easy to prepare at home
• Traditional wellness drink
• Perfect for detox routines

🍵 Final Thoughts

This butterfly pea flower tea recipe is more than just a drink — it’s a blend of tradition, wellness, and natural beauty. Whether you call it blue pea tea, blue tea, or aparajita flower tea, this calming herbal infusion is a must-try for anyone looking to explore healthy and visually stunning beverages.

If you’ve been searching for how to make butterfly pea flower tea at home, this guide gives you everything you need to get started.