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Tornillo Tea

Cousin to the mesquite tree, the tornillo is a rich and luxurious tree with a commanding presence. My tree, named Tomás, or Tommy, was once a small, wispy tree and now takes over the front yard of our bookstore on Tornillo Street.
Author: By Denise Chávez

Ingredients

  • 6 tornillo pods, washed
  • 6 cups water
  • Agave or honey, to taste (optional)
  • Lime, for garnish

Instructions

  • Add the tornillo pods to water and bring to boil; turn off heat, cover, and steep for 20 minutes, until tea is a rich, earthy, amber color. Remove pods and strain. Sweeten with agave or honey, if desired. Serve iced or hot, with lime.