Top 5 Tea Recipes For Your Travel Mug

There's no need to compromise on the beverages we enjoy when traveling, especially tea. If you're a tried-and-true tea drinker, not having your favorite brew with you at all times can be a real downer.

However, with the right travel accessories, like travel mugs, you can bring all your favorite Firebelly blends wherever you go. This article showcases our handy travel mug, top tea blend recipes you can put in it, and a couple of extra recipes for delicious mug cakes. But first, let's explore what makes our travel mug so special. 

What is a Travel Mug with a Built-In Tea Press?

A travel mug with a built-in tea press or infuser is a versatile and convenient tool designed for tea drinkers who enjoy brewing their tasty tea on the go. Our Stop-Infusion Travel Mug integrates a tea press directly into the design, allowing you to steep loose-leaf tea easily.

Features and Benefits

• Integrated Press: The primary feature of our travel mug is the integrated infuser or tea press. This component typically consists of a press with a stainless steel fine plunger to keep your loose-leaf black, herbal, or green tea leaves pressed at the bottom so your tea never oversteeps. It also helps keep them at the bottom so you can easily remove them from your brew once you've enjoyed it.

• Portability: Our travel mug is designed to be portable and is constructed with double-walled insulation to keep your hot tea piping or your iced tea cold for extended periods. Its spill-proof design and secure lids prevent leaks, making it perfect for commuting, hiking, or any on-the-go activity.

• Ease of Use: The built-in press makes making tea quick and easy. You don't need separate strainers or additional brewing equipment. Whether you like it piping hot or poured over ice, you can make and enjoy delicious, fresh teas wherever you are.

How to Use Our Stop Infusion Travel Mug

Using a travel mug with a built-in press or infuser is straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get the most out of your travel mug:

Preparation

1. Choose Your Tea: Select your favorite loose-leaf teas and measure just the right amount based on your preference. Generally, 1 tablespoon of loose-leaf herbal, black, or green tea per Stop-Infusion Travel Mug or per one cup of water is a good guideline.

2. Boil Water: Heat water to the recommended temperature. For example, green tea and matcha tea powder typically require water heated to about 170°F, while black tea needs water at 190°F.

Load the Mug

Open the lid of your travel mug and remove the built-in press. Place your loose-leaf tea into the mug.

Add Water

Pour the heated water into the travel mug, stopping at the top fill line for hot tea, or the bottom fill line for iced tea. It is important to use hot but not boiling water since boiling water may scorch the tea leaves and create a bitter brew.

Steep

Allow the tea to steep. The steeping time between herbal, black, and green tea varies:

• Green Tea: 2-3 minutes

• Black Tea: 3-5 minutes

• Herbal Tea: 5-7 minutes

Adjust the steeping time according to personal preference. Longer steeping can produce a stronger, more robust flavor, while shorter steeping produces a milder taste. Be careful not to over-steep your teas - black and green tea may become too bitter. Press down the plunger slowly to trap your herbal, black, or green tea leaves at the bottom and stop the steeping process.

Secure the Lid

Secure the lid and enjoy your tea on the go. The insulated design of the travel mug is just what you need to keep your hot or iced tea at the desired temperature for hours, allowing you to savor it leisurely throughout your day.

Hot and Iced Tea Recipes

From fresh green tea leaves to matcha powder to black tea, these recipes are just what you need to satisfy your tea cravings. With our Stop-Infusion Travel Mug, you can enjoy a hot tea or refreshingly cool iced tea.

Spiced Apple Mint Tea Recipe - Featuring Paradise Tea Blend

Firebelly's Paradise blend is a harmonious mix of lemon verbena leaves, chamomile, apple, sweet blackberry leaves, lavender, and rosehip. This blend is naturally soothing and aromatic, perfect for a relaxing and refreshing drink. You can enjoy this brew all on its own or elevate it by adding a few complementary ingredients that will enhance its flavor profile and provide additional health benefits. 

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. Firebelly's Paradise blend

• 1 cup water (about 200°F)

• 1 tsp honey or agave syrup (optional for sweetness)

• 1 slice of fresh ginger

• 1-2 slices of fresh apple

• 1-2 slices of lemon or lime

• A few fresh mint leaves

• A dash of cinnamon

• A splash of elderflower cordial (optional for a floral note)

Instructions:

• Steeping: Begin by steeping the Paradise blend. Add the leaves and water to the mug and steep for 5-7 minutes.

• Prepare the Add-ins: Slice a piece of fresh ginger. Ginger adds a subtle spicy note and has anti-inflammatory properties. Cut fresh apple slices to enhance the natural apple notes in the blend and add a bit of crunch. Slice a lemon or lime. Citrus adds a bright, zesty component that complements the herbal notes. Pick a few fresh mint leaves for a refreshing taste and aroma. A dash of cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the tea.

• Elderflower Cordial: If you have it, a splash of elderflower gives the tea a floral note that pairs well with the existing flavors.

• Combine and Infuse: After the tea has steeped, add the ginger, apple slices, lemon or lime slices, and fresh mint leaves. Add in the honey or agave if you prefer a sweeter drink. The sweetness will balance the tartness from the citrus and the warmth of the spices and satisfy any sweet tooth without making the drink overly sweet. Put your press back into the mug and press down all the ingredients to the bottom.

Optional Step - Cool for Iced Tea

If you prefer an iced tea version, use the bottom fill line when adding hot water to steep, and add ice cubes to the inner chamber of the tea press. This makes a refreshing and cooling iced tea that tastes great on a hot summer day.

Mocha Mate Recipe - Featuring No Ordinary Joe Blend 

Firebelly's No Ordinary Joe blend is a robust mix that includes roasted Yerba Mate, dandelion root, cocoa shell, chicory root, and licorice root. This blend provides a rich, coffee-like taste with a touch of sweetness and a hint of bitterness from the dandelion and chicory roots. To elevate this blend, we'll add ingredients that complement its bold flavors, creating a delicious and well-rounded beverage perfect for any time of the day. 

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. Firebelly's No Ordinary Joe blend

• 1 cup water (about 200°F)

• 1 tsp honey (optional for sweetness)

• 1-2 tbsp coconut milk, soy milk, almond milk, or dairy milk

• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom

• A pinch of sea salt

• A dash of nutmeg

• 1-2 pieces of dark chocolate or a tablespoon of dark chocolate chips

Instructions:

• Steeping: Steep the No Ordinary Joe blend by placing it in the mug, adding water, and steeping it for about 5-7 minutes. You'll be adding milk, so stop below the fill line when adding water.

• Prepare the Add-ins: Heat the milk until warm but not boiling. The milk adds a creamy texture that complements the bold flavors of the tea. Measure out the ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, ground cardamom, and a dash of nutmeg. If you add dark chocolate, break it into small pieces so it melts easily into the hot tea.

• Combine and Infuse: After the tea has steeped, stir in the warm milk, honey, and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, and a dash of nutmeg. Stir well to integrate the spices into the tea. Add the dark chocolate pieces and stir until they are completely melted, giving the tea a rich mocha taste. Add a dash of salt to the tea. This might seem unusual, but a small amount of salt can enhance the sweetness and depth of the flavors, balancing the bitterness from the chicory and dandelion roots.

Final Touch:

Mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a uniform taste throughout. Put your press back into the mug and press down all the ingredients to the bottom. Ensure the lid is secured to prevent spills.

Tip: 

For a decadent and creamy version, use coconut milk, which is also naturally a bit sweeter. If you prefer a silky tea, try this recipe with almond milk. 

Matcha Green Tea Powder Latte Recipe - Featuring All Matcha Blend

Firebelly's All Matcha blend, made from 100% ceremonial-grade Japanese matcha, offers vibrant color, earthy notes, and various health benefits. Matcha is renowned for its rich antioxidants, gentle caffeine boost, and calming amino acids. Here's a recipe for an enhanced ceremonial All Matcha latte to fill your mugs:

Ingredients:

• 1 tsp. Firebelly's All Matcha blend

• 1 cup water (about 175°F)

• 1/2 cup steamed milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, soy, or oat milk)

• 1 tsp honey or agave syrup (optional for sweetness)

• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp ground ginger

• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

• A pinch of sea salt

• 1-2 tsp coconut oil or MCT oil (optional for creaminess and added energy)

• A dash of nutmeg (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

• Prepare the Matcha:  Sift 1 tsp of Firebelly's All Matcha blend into a bowl using a fine mesh strainer to avoid clumps. Sifting ensures it remains smooth and lump-free.

• Add Water: Heat water to about 170°F (not boiling) and pour a small amount (about 2 tbsp.) over the sifted matcha.

• Whisk: Using a bamboo whisk (chasen) or Frirebelly's stainless steel whisk, whisk the matcha and water in a zigzag motion until a smooth, frothy paste forms.

• Prepare the Steamed Milk: In a small saucepan, heat your choice of milk until steaming but not boiling. If using a milk frother, you can also froth the milk to achieve a creamy texture.

• Add Sweetener and Vanilla: Stir in 1 tsp of honey or agave if desired for sweetness. Add 1/4 tsp vanilla extract for a hint of vanilla.

• Blend the Dry Ingredients:  For the matcha paste, add 1/4 tsp ground ginger and 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon. These spices add warmth and a subtle kick, enhancing the matcha's earthy notes.

• Incorporate Coconut Oil: For a creamier texture and an extra energy boost, add 1-2 tsp of coconut oil or MCT oil to the matcha paste. Whisk or blend until fully integrated.

• Add Sea Salt: Add a pinch of sea salt. This ingredient will balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the matcha latte.

• Combine Matcha and Milk: Slowly pour the steamed milk into the matcha mixture, stirring continuously to combine. Ensure the mixture is smooth and thoroughly blended.

Final Touch

Sprinkle a dash of nutmeg on top of your matcha latte to elevate it. This adds a lovely aromatic touch and complements the spices in this recipe. Pour your creation into your travel mug and secure the lid.

A Twist on Chai Recipe - Featuring Shades of Earl Grey Blend

Firebelly's Shades of Earl Grey blend combines the classic taste of black tea with the unique additions of lemon myrtle, bergamot peel, lemon thyme, and juniper berry. 

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. Firebelly's Shades of Earl Grey blend

• 1 cup water (about 190°F)

• 1-2 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)

• 1/2 cup steamed milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, soy, or oat milk)

• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom

• 1 slice of fresh lemon or orange

• 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary

Instructions:

• Steeping: Place 1 tbsp. of Firebelly's Shades of Earl Grey blend into the mug. Add 1 cup of hot water (about 190°F) and let it steep for 3-5 minutes. This will allow the black tea, lemon myrtle, bergamot peel, lemon thyme, and juniper berry to infuse thoroughly.

• Prepare the Add-ins: While the tea steeps heat 1/2 cup of your preferred milk until warm and frothy. You can use a milk frother or heat it on the stovetop. Slice a fresh lemon or orange piece to add a zesty note to the tea. Pick 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary.

• Combine and Infuse:  Add the steamed milk to create a creamy consistency after the tea has steeped. Add 1-2 tsp of honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter drink. Stir well to combine. Stir in 1/4 tsp of vanilla extract for a smooth, sweet undertone. Add 1/4 tsp of ground cardamom. This spice adds warmth and a slight spiciness that enhances the overall flavor.

Final Touch:

Squeeze a fresh lemon or orange slice into the tea and then drop the slice into the drink for added flavor. Add the sprigs of fresh rosemary to the tea. You can also slightly muddle the rosemary to release more aromatic oils. Press down your plunger. 

Fancy Forest Tea Recipe - Featuring A Breath of Fresh Air Blend

Firebelly's A Breath of Fresh Air blend combines the invigorating flavors of peppermint, eucalyptus, and rainforest peppermint. This blend is naturally refreshing, cooling, and soothing, making it an excellent base for a revitalizing drink. 

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. Firebelly's A Breath of Fresh Air blend

• 1 cup water (about 190°F)

• 1-2 tsp sugar, honey, or agave syrup (optional for sweetness)

• 1/2 cup steamed milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, soy, or oat milk)

• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 slice of fresh ginger

• 1 slice of fresh lemon

• A few fresh mint leaves

• A pinch of dried lavender buds (optional)

• A dash of ground cinnamon (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

• Steeping: Place 1 tbsp. of Firebelly's A Breath of Fresh Air blend into your mug. Pour 1 cup of hot water (about 190°F) over the tea and let it steep for 5-7 minutes. This will allow the peppermint, eucalyptus, and rainforest peppermint to infuse thoroughly.

• Prepare the Add-ins: While the tea is steeping, heat 1/2 cup of your preferred milk until warm and frothy. You can use a milk frother or heat it on the stovetop. Slice a piece of fresh ginger. Ginger adds a subtle spicy note and has anti-inflammatory properties. Cut a fresh lemon slice to add a bright, citrusy flavor. Pick a few fresh mint leaves for added freshness and a boost of minty flavor. If you enjoy floral flavors, a pinch of dried lavender buds can add an extra layer of aroma and taste.

• Combine and Infuse:  Add the steamed milk to create a rich and creamy consistency after the tea has steeped. You won't need much sugar as this tea is naturally sweet, but if you prefer it sweeter, add 1-2 tsp of sugar, honey, or agave syrup to the desired taste. Stir well to combine. Stir in 1/4 tsp of vanilla extract for a smooth, sweet undertone.

Final Touch:

Add the slice of fresh ginger and the slice of fresh lemon to the tea. These ingredients add a bright and refreshing twist to the minty base. Add the fresh mint leaves to the tea. Add a pinch of dried lavender buds for an additional floral note. For extra warmth, sprinkle a dash of ground cinnamon into the tea. Put your plunger into your mug, press down, and secure the lid.

Conclusion

With these five tea recipes, you can enjoy a variety of flavors and benefits tailored to different times of the day and types of travel. From a hearty mocha mate to an energizing herbal paradise, these teas, whether enjoyed hot or on ice, will keep you refreshed, alert, and comforted no matter where your journey takes you.

Each recipe is designed to be easily portable, making your Firebelly travel mug the best way to enjoy delightful tea experiences. Whether you prefer a warm and spicy chai or a cool and invigorating matcha, there's a tea here to suit every traveler's taste. Check out some of the other accessories we offer at Firebelly.