9. Brew Big-Batch Chai, Iced Tea, and Cold-Infusions the Smart Way
Tea strainers are naturally suited for brewing tea, but they can also be used to make large batches of chai, iced tea, or other cold infusions without the mess. Fill the strainer with your choice of tea leaves or spices, and place it in the slow cooker with water or milk.
For a refreshing iced tea, fill the strainer with loose black tea leaves and a few slices of lemon. Let it steep in the slow cooker on low for a few hours, then cool and serve over ice. The strainer keeps the leaves contained, allowing for a smooth pour every time.
10. Use as a Mini Steamer Basket for Veg and Dumplings
A tea strainer can double as a mini steamer basket for small portions of vegetables or dumplings. Place the strainer over the simmering liquid in your slow cooker, and add your vegetables or dumplings inside the strainer. Cover the slow cooker to allow the steam to cook your ingredients gently.
This method is ideal for quickly steaming a handful of broccoli florets or a few dumplings as part of a larger meal. The strainer allows the steam to circulate evenly, ensuring everything is cooked through without getting soggy.
11. Turn It Into a Reusable Sachet for Potpourri and Simmer Pots
Tea strainers aren’t just for cooking—they can also be used to scent your home. Fill a strainer with a mix of dried flowers, herbs, and spices, and place it in a simmer pot with water on low heat. This creates a lovely aroma that can fill your home with the scents of your choice.
For a cozy fall scent, try mixing dried orange peels, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. The tea strainer keeps everything contained, making it easy to reuse or switch out the ingredients as desired.
12. Hack a Mini Sifter for Spices, Cocoa, and Toppings
A tea strainer can be transformed into a mini sifter for dusting spices, cocoa powder, or other toppings over dishes. Simply fill the strainer with the desired powder, hold it over your dish, and gently shake to distribute evenly.
This technique works well for adding a final touch of cocoa powder to desserts or evenly spreading a spice mix over roasted vegetables. The fine mesh of the strainer ensures an even dusting, giving your dishes a professional finish.
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