Winter Melon Tea
Hawker • Singapore
About Winter Melon Tea
Sweet winter melon drink — traditional Chinese cooling tea
How to Make Winter Melon Tea (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Winter Melon Tea, known locally as 'dong gua cha', is a beloved beverage found in Singapore's vibrant hawker centres and kopitiams. This refreshing drink is prized for its cooling properties, making it a popular choice to beat Singapore’s tropical heat. The tea has a subtle, natural sweetness from winter melon and rock sugar, with a hint of caramelized depth. Its origins can be traced to traditional Chinese herbal beverages, but Singaporeans have made it their own through creative fusion and the integration of local tastes. Today, Winter Melon Tea is enjoyed by all ages and is available throughout the island, from hawker stalls to upscale cafes. What makes Singapore's Winter Melon Tea special is its versatility and adaptiveness to a health-conscious lifestyle. It is vegan, naturally caffeine-free, and can be customized with minimal sugar for a lighter, guilt-free drink. Whether sipped during a mid-day break or enjoyed as a hydrating companion to a hawker meal, this tea embodies the multicultural spirit of Singapore’s food scene while offering a nutritious alternative to sugary sodas. The mild, soothing flavors make it a staple in many households, and its preparation is simple enough for anyone to recreate at home.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (approx. 250ml) per serving)
- 250g Winter melon (peeled and cubed; known as 'dong gua')
- 40g Rock sugar (adjust to taste)
- 15g Dried longan (adds natural sweetness) - optional
- 2 leaves Pandan leaves (tied into a knot for aroma) - optional
- 800ml Water
- 1 tsp Lemon juice (optional, for a tangy twist) - optional
- as needed Ice cubes - optional
Instructions
- 1
Peel and cube the winter melon. Remove seeds and set aside the flesh.
5 minutes
Smaller cubes cook faster and extract more flavor.
- 2
In a pot, combine winter melon cubes, water, and pandan leaves. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
5 minutes
Pandan leaves add a distinct Singaporean aroma.
- 3
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes until winter melon softens and turns translucent.
15 minutes
Simmer gently to prevent bitterness.
- 4
Add rock sugar (and dried longan, if using). Stir until fully dissolved. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
5 minutes
Adjust sugar to taste for a healthier version.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Singaporean Winter Melon Tea recipe is ideal for anyone seeking a refreshing drink without added preservatives or high sugar content. It utilizes whole, plant-based ingredients and supports hydration, making it a much better choice compared to commercial soft drinks. The simple preparation ensures you control the amount of sugar, making it suitable for weight management and overall wellness.
Winter Melon Tea is naturally low in fat and contains essential vitamins like vitamin C and B-complex from winter melon. Winter melon is hydrating and rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and supports a healthy gut. Pandan leaves add antioxidants, while dried longan offers trace minerals like iron and potassium. By reducing sugar, you keep the beverage low in calories and suitable for daily consumption.
Pro Tips
- 💡Caramelize a portion of the winter melon with sugar before boiling for a deeper flavor.
- 💡Add more pandan for an extra fragrant aroma.
- 💡Serve over crushed ice for the ultimate kopitiam experience.
Storage & Serving
Store in a covered jug in the fridge for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving. Best served chilled. Do not freeze as it may affect texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 55.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
