Is the exotic bright blue that comes from blue butterfly pea flowers, the color of the summer? Experience the stunning, natural color of blue butterfly pea flower. The exotic, bright blue pigment that comes from this amazing botanical may just be the color of summer. But what exactly is the butterfly pea flower and where does it’s gorgeous color come from? Learn more below and learn how to make a butterfly pea drink / tea from this beautiful plant.
What is blue butterfly pea flower?
Butterfly pea flower is actually a legume and a member of the pea family. It's a vine (climber) that creates fruits from which deep blue blooms emerge.
Native to South Asian countries like Thailand and Malaysia, these flowers are rich in anthocyanins, water-soluble pigments that give this botanical its deep blue color. In addition to it’s breathtaking color, the blue butterfly pea flower offers countless wellness benefits.
What are the butterfly pea flower’s benefits?
Butterfly pea flower is an antioxidant-rich ingredient that offers benefits way beyond turning your drink blue. It’s filled with anti-inflammatory compounds that help our bodies fight back against free radicals and is a natural nootropic, meaning it supports cognitive function.
How does the butterfly pea flower change colors?
After steeping, the infusion of butterfly pea flower can change to a spectrum of purple, violet, magenta or other variations, depending on the pH of what it is mixed with. For example, just a few drops of something acidic – such as lemon – transforms it to a rich violet. For additional color variations, experiment mixing steeped butterfly pea flower with any of these ingredients:
- Extra water or seltzer
- Cucumber
- Hibiscus
- Other citrus juice or forms of lemon (try slices instead of juice)
How to make a butterfly pea flower drink / tea?
Steeping blue butterfly pea flowers in hot water is the most common preparation, then consumed as a hot or iced tea. But the possibilities don’t stop there; the deep blue infusion can be frozen into ice cubes or added to smoothies. While these flowers produce a freshly floral infusion with lightly vegetal notes, they do not possess a dominant or distinct flavor. However, there are many ways to reap the benefits and fun color-changing properties of butterfly pea flower. This is where herbal tea blends come into play. Blending the flower with other botanicals, teas and natural flavors creates endless possibilities. Two of our favorite blends featuring this unique flower are Aurora Blue Herbal Tea and Blue Raspberry Crush Herbal Tea. Aurora Blue features citrus, ginger, and lemongrass for a zesty flavor while Blue Raspberry Crush showcases sweet raspberry notes for a fruity flavor. Both are available in a wide range of sizes, whether you want to try a little first or stock up on bulk tea. Undoubtedly, the beautiful colors of blue butterfly pea flowers make for stunning creations. What fun have you had with butterfly pea flower? Be sure to share your fun ideas/culinary concoctions below!
