How to Make Winter Melon Tea (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Winter Melon Tea, known locally as 'dong gua cha', is a beloved beverage found in Singapore's vibrant hawker centres and kopitiams. This refreshing drink is prized for its cooling properties, making it a popular choice to beat Singapore’s tropical heat. The tea has a subtle, natural sweetness from winter melon and rock sugar, with a hint of caramelized depth. Its origins can be traced to traditional Chinese herbal beverages, but Singaporeans have made it their own through creative fusion and the integration of local tastes. Today, Winter Melon Tea is enjoyed by all ages and is available throughout the island, from hawker stalls to upscale cafes. What makes Singapore's Winter Melon Tea special is its versatility and adaptiveness to a health-conscious lifestyle. It is vegan, naturally caffeine-free, and can be customized with minimal sugar for a lighter, guilt-free drink. Whether sipped during a mid-day break or enjoyed as a hydrating companion to a hawker meal, this tea embodies the multicultural spirit of Singapore’s food scene while offering a nutritious alternative to sugary sodas. The mild, soothing flavors make it a staple in many households, and its preparation is simple enough for anyone to recreate at home.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Peel and cube the winter melon
Peel and cube the winter melon. Remove seeds and set aside the flesh.
Step 2 · In a pot
In a pot, combine winter melon cubes, water, and pandan leaves. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Step 3 · Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes until winter melon sof...
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes until winter melon softens and turns translucent.
Step 4 · Add rock sugar (and dried longan
Add rock sugar (and dried longan, if using). Stir until fully dissolved. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 5 · Turn off heat
Turn off heat. Discard pandan leaves. Allow the tea to cool for 10 minutes.
Step 6 · Strain the tea into a jug
Strain the tea into a jug. Add lemon juice if desired. Chill in the fridge or serve over ice.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Singaporean Winter Melon Tea recipe is ideal for anyone seeking a refreshing drink without added preservatives or high sugar content. It utilizes whole, plant-based ingredients and supports hydration, making it a much better choice compared to commercial soft drinks. The simple preparation ensures you control the amount of sugar, making it suitable for weight management and overall wellness.
A note on tradition
Winter Melon Tea is a Singaporean favorite, often enjoyed at kopitiams and hawker centres year-round. It is especially popular during hot weather and at family gatherings. The use of pandan leaves and dried longan reflects the fusion influences in Singapore’s food culture, where traditional Chinese recipes are adapted with Southeast Asian ingredients. The tea is also a staple during local festivities and is considered a cooling drink in traditional beliefs.