Itsa, or mountain tea from Sagada

In sari-sari stores bags or bundles of itsa or mountain tea leaves can be found ranging from P20 to P25 per pack. Sagada restaurants also serve it with honey, making it the perfect drink to warm up with in the cold Cordillera air, especially during December to February. I have yet to find out what species it is exactly though.

We brought home a bag and were instructed to simply steep the leaves in boiled water for 2-3 minutes. About 5 leaves are already good for one serving, and with a tablespoon or two of honey and 2 freshly-squeezed calamansi, you have a hot cup of highland immunity boost.

Ingredients (good for three people):

• 15 leaves of itsa or mountain tea leaves.
• 500 ml (or about 3 mugs) of boiled water.
• 4 tablespoons of honey.
• 4-5 freshly-squeezed calamansi juice, seeds removed.

Directions:

• Heat water until it boils and turn off heat. Fill up 3 mugs or your half-liter tumbler.
• Throw in the leaves and let steep for 3 minutes. Remove leaves.
• Mix in calamansi juice and honey.
• Mix well and serve immediately.
• Use less water for a more flavorful tea.