Looking for a way to unwind after a long day? Look no further than the ancient art of kava. With its calming effects and rich cultural heritage, kava has become increasingly popular as a relaxing beverage. But why settle for just one traditional recipe when you can try them all? In this article, we’ll explore 18 refreshing kava recipes that will transport you to a state of serenity. From fruity twists like Tropical Mango Kava Punch to creamy indulgences like Chocolate Kava Milkshake, there’s something for every palate and mood.
Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or seeking a unique way to socialize with friends, kava has got you covered. And the best part? These recipes are easy to make and require minimal ingredients. So sit back, relax, and get ready to discover your new favorite drink.
Traditional Fijian Kava Drink
In Fiji, kava has been a part of daily life for centuries, serving as a social lubricant and promoting relaxation. This traditional recipe yields a rich, creamy brew that’s perfect for unwinding with friends or family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried kava root (Piper methysticum)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried kava root in cold water, then soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked kava again, then place it in a blender with 2 cups of fresh water.
3. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Strain the brew through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or pitcher.
5. Add sugar to taste, if desired. Stir well to dissolve.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Vanilla Coconut Kava Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the earthy flavor of kava, perfectly balanced by sweet vanilla and a hint of tropical fruit. Enjoy as a rejuvenating pick-me-up or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/2 cup frozen mango
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons kava powder (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or kava level as desired.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This smoothie is ready in seconds!
Spiced Pineapple Kava Elixir
This spiced pineapple kava elixir is a unique blend of flavors and herbs that will transport you to a tropical paradise. With the warmth of spices, the sweetness of pineapple, and the calming properties of kava, this elixir is perfect for relaxing after a long day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup coconut water
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup kava powder (CBD-free)
– Honey, to taste
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or shaker, combine pineapple juice, coconut water, ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom.
2. Add kava powder and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness with honey as needed.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the elixir over the top.
5. Stir gently and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chilled Mint Kava Tea
Reinvigorate your senses with this revitalizing blend of minty freshness and earthy kava goodness, perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a calming pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup kava tea (brewed according to package instructions)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large glass, combine the brewed kava tea and fresh mint leaves.
2. Stir gently to release the oils and flavors of the mint.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add honey to taste (if using).
5. Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the chilled tea over the ice.
6. Stir well and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-brewed recipe.
Tropical Mango Kava Punch
Tropical Mango Kava Punch Recipe
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing punch, perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a taste of the islands.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pineapple juice
– 1 cup mango puree
– 1/2 cup kava tea (brewed and cooled)
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Sliced mango, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice, mango puree, and kava tea.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Add ginger ale and stir gently.
4. Muddle in chopped fresh mint leaves by using a spoon or muddler.
5. Chill the punch in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with sliced mango and serve over ice.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refreshing drink!
Honey Lemon Kava Tonic
A refreshing and calming drink perfect for unwinding after a long day, this Honey Lemon Kava Tonic combines the subtle earthy flavor of kava with the sweetness of honey and zesty tang of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 2 teaspoons dried kava root powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a simmer.
2. Add the kava root powder and whisk until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 5 minutes.
4. Strain the mixture into a large glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Stir in the honey until fully dissolved.
6. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir well.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Ginger Turmeric Kava Latte
As the day winds down, treat yourself to a comforting cup of tea infused with the calming properties of kava, warming spices, and a hint of sweetness. This recipe combines the invigorating flavors of ginger and turmeric with the sedative effects of kava for a truly relaxing experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon dried kava root
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, coconut, or oat)
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the non-dairy milk over low heat.
2. Add the dried kava root, ground ginger, and ground turmeric. Whisk until well combined.
3. Reduce heat to simmer and let steep for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture is fragrant and the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Discard the solids.
5. Add honey or maple syrup, if desired. Stir in a pinch of black pepper to enhance the bioavailability of turmeric.
6. Enjoy your soothing Ginger Turmeric Kava Latte within 15-20 minutes for optimal relaxation.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including steeping time)
Blueberry Lavender Kava Infusion
This recipe combines the calming effects of kava with the sweet and floral flavors of blueberries and lavender, creating a unique and relaxing infusion.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup dried kava root
• 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
• 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. In a large glass jar, combine kava root and lavender buds.
2. Add the blueberries to the mixture, ensuring they’re fully submerged in the herbs.
3. Pour in the water, leaving about an inch at the top.
4. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
5. Cover the jar with a lid or cloth, allowing it to infuse for 8-12 hours, or overnight.
6. Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container.
7. Discard the solids and enjoy your Blueberry Lavender Kava Infusion.
Cooking Time: None required; simply let it steep!
Chocolate Kava Milkshake
Transform your ordinary milkshake into a rich and indulgent treat with the addition of kava, a unique and exotic ingredient. This decadent drink is perfect for hot summer days or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or skim)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon kava extract powder (1-2% Kavalactone)
– 2 teaspoons honey (optional)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ice cream, milk, cocoa powder, and kava extract powder.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding honey if desired.
4. Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if using.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Cold Brew Kava with Citrus Zest
Elevate your kava experience with the bright, citrusy flavor of orange and lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cold brew kava powder (Kava Labs or similar)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine the cold brew kava powder and water in a large glass jar. Stir well to dissolve.
2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the kava to steep.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another container, discarding the solids.
4. Add the orange juice and lemon zest to the strained kava liquid. Stir gently to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve over ice cubes, if desired, and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Peach Basil Kava Cooler
Beat the heat with this unique and flavorful cooler that combines the sweetness of peaches, the brightness of basil, and the soothing effects of kava. This recipe is perfect for a summer evening or a relaxing gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon kava extract (or 1 teaspoon dried kava powder)
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
– Sliced peaches and basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine diced peaches, chopped basil, and kava extract (or dried kava powder).
2. Add unsweetened almond milk and honey to the pitcher. Stir until the honey is dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Peach Basil Kava Cooler over the ice.
5. Stir gently and garnish with sliced peaches and basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Matcha Kava Fusion Drink
Combine the calming benefits of kava with the energizing properties of matcha green tea for a unique and rejuvenating drink. This Matcha Kava Fusion Drink is perfect for those seeking a relaxing yet invigorating beverage.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or black tea
– 1/4 cup coconut water
– 1 tablespoon kava extract (kavalactone-free)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a strong cup of coffee or black tea and let it cool.
2. In a large glass, combine the cooled coffee/tea, matcha powder, and coconut water. Whisk until the matcha is fully dissolved.
3. Add the kava extract and whisk until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding honey if desired.
5. Fill a glass with ice and pour the Matcha Kava Fusion Drink over the ice.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None!
Almond Milk Kava Elixir
In this recipe, we’ll create a calming and refreshing elixir by combining the natural sedative properties of kava root with the creamy richness of almond milk. This drink is perfect for unwinding after a long day or as a pre-bedtime treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1/2 teaspoon dried kava root powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the almond milk over low heat.
2. Add the kava root powder and whisk until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the honey until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the elixir into a mug or glass.
5. If desired, add ice cubes to chill the drink.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Strawberry Hibiscus Kava Blend
Revitalize your senses with this refreshing blend of sweet strawberries, tangy hibiscus, and calming kava. Perfect for a relaxing evening or a soothing pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried strawberry
– 1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers
– 1 tablespoon kava powder
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 2 cups boiling water
Instructions:
1. Combine strawberry, hibiscus, and kava in a large mug.
2. Pour in boiling water and let steep for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid into another cup using a tea infuser or cheesecloth.
4. Add honey to taste, if desired.
5. Enjoy your soothing Strawberry Hibiscus Kava Blend!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cucumber Lime Kava Refreshment
This refreshing drink combines the soothing properties of kava with the cooling flavors of cucumber and lime, perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a calming pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup freshly brewed kava tea (or store-bought kava powder dissolved in water)
– 1/2 cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– Juice of 1 lime
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the brewed kava tea and sliced cucumber. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Just before serving, add the freshly squeezed lime juice to the pitcher. Stir well to combine.
3. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Cucumber Lime Kava Refreshment over the ice.
4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (chilling time included)
Caramel Macadamia Kava Shake
Escape to a tropical paradise with this rich and creamy shake, featuring the unique flavor of kava and the crunch of caramelized macadamia nuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup milk or non-dairy alternative
– 1 tablespoon kava extract powder (or to taste)
– 1 tablespoon caramel syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Brew a cup of strong coffee and let it cool.
2. In a blender, combine the cooled coffee, vanilla ice cream, milk or non-dairy alternative, and kava extract powder.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Drizzle caramel syrup over the top and sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pomegranate Rosemary Kava Tonic
Elevate your wellness routine with this refreshing and rejuvenating tonic, infused with the natural benefits of pomegranate, rosemary, and kava.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup rosemary leaves (fresh or dried)
– 2 tablespoons kava powder (5% kavalactone)
– 2 cups water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large glass pitcher, combine pomegranate juice and rosemary leaves.
2. Steep the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, stir in kava powder until dissolved.
4. Add water and stir well.
5. Chill the tonic in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Serve over ice if desired.
Cooking Time: None (steeping time included)
Banana Cinnamon Kava Smoothie
Start your day with a boost of energy and relaxation with this creamy Banana Cinnamon Kava Smoothie. This unique blend combines the natural calming effects of kava root with the sweetness of banana and warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1 teaspoon kava powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, kava powder, and cinnamon.
2. Add the almond milk and honey to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as needed.
5. Serve immediately, or add ice cubes for a thicker texture.
Cooking Time: 1 minute
Summary
Discover the relaxing world of kava with these 18 refreshing recipes! From traditional Fijian drinks to unique fusion flavors, this collection has something for everyone. Quench your thirst with a Vanilla Coconut Kava Smoothie or Spiced Pineapple Kava Elixir, or try a Chilled Mint Kava Tea or Tropical Mango Kava Punch for a fruity twist. For a sweet treat, indulge in a Honey Lemon Kava Tonic or Chocolate Kava Milkshake. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or need a pick-me-up, these recipes are sure to bring relaxation and tranquility.
