Come and find your ‘hygge’, accompanied by your favourite rooibos beverage

As winter sets in, many people are turning to the Danish concept of hygge to find comfort and joy during the colder months.

Hygge, pronounced “hoo-gah,” is all about creating a cosy, warm atmosphere and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. It’s about surrounding yourself with things that make you feel good, whether that’s a soft blanket, the glow of candlelight or a steaming cup of tea.

One element that fits perfectly into the hygge lifestyle is rooibos. Known for its rich, earthy flavour and numerous health benefits, it offers a sense of warmth and well-being with every sip.

Adele du Toit, spokesperson for the South African Rooibos Council, emphasises the synergy between rooibos and hygge. “Rooibos is more than just a drink, it’s a ritual of relaxation and mindfulness. Its natural sweetness and depth of flavour make it a perfect companion for those seeking to create a hygge-inspired environment. Whether you’re reading a book by the fire or sharing stories with loved ones, a cup of rooibos adds to the sense of comfort and contentment.”

To help you get started on your hygge journey, here are three warm and delightful rooibos recipes that are perfect for winter:

Spiced rooibos chai

Ingredients:

• 4 cups water

• 4 rooibos sachets

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 4 whole cloves

• 2 whole star anise

• 4 cardamom pods, crushed

• 1 piece of fresh ginger (about an inch), sliced

• 2 cups milk (or a dairy-free alternative)

• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)

Method:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.

2. Add the rooibos sachets, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, cardamom pods and ginger.

3. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Add the milk and honey, and heat until just warm. Do not let it boil.

5. Strain the rooibos into mugs and enjoy the aromatic blend of spices.

Rooibos hot chocolate

You need:

• 2 cups brewed rooibos

• 2 cups milk (or a dairy-free alternative)

• ½ cup dark chocolate chips or chopped up chocolate

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder

• 1 tbsp sugar or sweetener of choice

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• whipped cream and cinnamon (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brew a strong cup of rooibos using two sachets.

2. In a saucepan, combine the brewed rooibos, milk, dark chocolate, cocoa powder and sugar.

3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is fully melted and the mixture is smooth.

4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired, and enjoy this luxurious treat.

Rooibos and apple cider

Ingredients:

• 4 cups apple cider

• 4 rooibos sachets

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 orange, sliced

• 1 apple, sliced

• 2 tbsp honey

• 4 whole cloves and/or star anise

Method:

1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, rooibos sachets, cinnamon stick, orange and apple slices, honey and cloves or star anise.

2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling.

3. Let it simmer for five to 10 minutes to allow the flavours to blend together.

4. Remove the sachets and cloves.

5. Serve the cider in mugs, garnished with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick if desired.