Wintermelon Tea 25% Sugar
Beverages • Singapore
About Wintermelon Tea 25% Sugar
Wintermelon tea at reduced sugar; still sweet because wintermelon base is usually syrup-led. Calories vary by size, sugar level and toppings, so SingaporeCalorie treats this as a practical estimate for a regular Singapore bubble tea cup.
How to Make Wintermelon Tea 25% Sugar (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Wintermelon Tea is a beloved beverage found in many Singaporean kopitiams and bubble tea shops, offering a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Originating from Chinese communities and seamlessly woven into Singapore's vibrant hawker culture, this subtly sweet drink is enjoyed by all ages. With a gentle aroma and soothing taste, Wintermelon Tea is often savored as a cooling treat during hot afternoons or as a lighter alternative to creamy milk teas.<br><br>In Singapore, the blend of traditional brewing methods and modern preferences has given rise to healthier versions of classic drinks. The 25% sugar adaptation is a testament to Singaporeans’ increasing health consciousness, providing the signature flavor without the excessive sweetness. This version celebrates the city’s fusion influences—balancing old-school techniques with contemporary tastes, making it a staple at bubble tea kiosks and local drink stalls.<br><br>Whether you’re reminiscing about a stroll through your favorite hawker centre or simply seeking a guilt-free refreshment, this Wintermelon Tea recipe delivers authentic flavor with fewer calories. It's a perfect choice for anyone mindful of their intake but unwilling to compromise on taste.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (approx. 300ml), classic Singapore kopitiam style)
- 300g Wintermelon (dong gua) (peeled and diced)
- 18g Rock sugar (adjust for 25% sweetness)
- 800ml Water (filtered)
- 2 leaves Pandan leaves (knotted, 'daun pandan')
- 10g Dried longan (optional for subtle depth) - optional
- 1 tsp Lime juice (freshly squeezed) - optional
- as needed Ice cubes (for serving)
- to taste Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetener (optional, for zero-calorie enhancement) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Peel and dice the wintermelon into small cubes. Rinse thoroughly to remove any excess starch.
5 minutes
Smaller cubes help the wintermelon dissolve faster during simmering.
- 2
In a large pot, combine wintermelon cubes, rock sugar, and water. Add pandan leaves and bring to a boil over medium heat.
10 minutes
Tie your pandan leaves into a knot for easy removal later and enhanced aroma.
- 3
Once boiling, reduce heat and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even sweetness and flavor infusion.
15 minutes
Do not cover the pot—allowing some liquid to evaporate gives the tea a richer, deeper taste.
- 4
Optional: Add dried longan for extra depth and simmer for another 5 minutes. Remove pandan leaves and longan before serving.
5 minutes
Dried longan adds a subtle, natural sweetness reminiscent of traditional herbal teas.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Wintermelon Tea recipe offers authentic Singaporean flavor with only 25% of the usual sugar, making it ideal for calorie tracking and weight management. By using natural sweeteners and real wintermelon, it avoids artificial additives common in commercial versions. The recipe supports hydration and refreshment with minimal calories, perfect for those seeking a healthy, delicious beverage.
Wintermelon Tea is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a smart choice for those watching their diet. The wintermelon itself is rich in dietary fiber and vitamin C, while pandan leaves add antioxidants. With only 38 calories per serving and 9.3g of carbs, this beverage hydrates without adding excess sugar. Optional additions like dried longan contribute trace minerals. The reduced sugar content makes it suitable for a balanced, health-conscious lifestyle.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh pandan leaves for the most authentic aroma.
- 💡Tip 2: Adjust sugar to suit your taste and dietary needs—start with less and add as needed.
- 💡Tip 3: For a fizzy twist, top up with sparkling water before serving.
Storage & Serving
Store any leftover tea in a covered jug in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as natural ingredients may settle.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 38.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9.3 g |
| Total Fat | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
