Malli Thanni/Coriander Tea – Cold Remedy
Tis the season of flus and colds and I've just reeled one in. I am experiencing all the symptoms when you are at the cusp of catching a full-fledged cold: burning eyes, throbbing head, gross sore throat, constant sneezing and shivers going up my spine. Simply put; I am feeling restless and I just want to get better ASAP.
The first remedy I always turn towards and find soothing is the tamil equivalency of the NeoCitran (insert *drum rolls*): "Malli Thanni" (the literal translation is "Coriander Water"). I enjoy drinking this therapeutic tea even on days when I'm not sick, hence I figure the recipe is worth sharing. All the ingredients used are known to have natural healing properties. It's easy to make and doesn't require too many ingredients, and whether it's been proven to work scientifically or not, I think it aids in a speedy recovery - even if it means at a sub-conscious level. It most definitely won't make your cold vanish overnight but it'll help expedite the process. For the first time, I made a batch on my own for my sister and I. Here is to hoping I can sleep straight through the night without getting up to cough. Next time you have a sore throat, runny nose, cough or fever, add this to your list of remedies and see if it helps.
Ingredients:
- coriander seeds - 1/4 cup
- cumin - 1/2 teaspoon
- black pepper seeds - 1 teaspoon
- ginger - 2 tablespoons worth
- water - 6 cups
- honey - as desired to taste
- cinnamon - tiny piece (optional)
Instructions:
All the ingredients you will require:
Set a small pan on medium heat, add your coriander seeds, pepper and cumin/jeera, along with a tiny stem of cinnamon (the cinnamon is optional). Roast until you get a whiff of the aroma of the coriander seeds, it should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Place a pot on high heat, add your roasted goods, pour in 6 cups of water and add your ginger (smash the ginger before throwing it in). Let the concoction boil for about 10 minutes, at which point about a cup of water will have evaporated and all the flavours will have seeped through in the remaining water. Strain the tea/malli thanni and serve with honey.
My mom tends to occasionally stir in a bit of Sri Lankan coffee and you can also squeeze in a bit of lemon juice.
