A clear, herbal infusion of dried coca leaves and hot water. Light amber in the cup, with a clean bitterness and a very Andean aroma. Simple, straightforward, and honest. Add a touch of sugar only if you want to round it out.
Heat the water until very hot, just before a hard boil. If it already boiled, let it settle for 1 minute so it does not scorch the leaves.
Place the coca leaves in a teapot or heatproof pitcher and pour the hot water over them. Cover and steep for 5 minutes, until the liquid turns amber and smells herbal.
Strain the tea and serve it hot. Add sugar only if you want to round out the bitterness; it should stay clear, herbal, and direct.
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