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The Root Blog

Winter Rituals: Why We Drink "Toasted" Tea on Cold Korean Nights

by Allen Kim 12 Dec 2025
Cozy Winter Tea Moment

"Warmth is not just a temperature. It's a feeling."

It’s 4:30 PM, and the sun is already setting. The wind outside has a bite to it, rattling the windows just enough to remind you of the freezing temperatures.

You’ve finally made it home, changed into your most comfortable clothes, and you want nothing more than to curl up under a heavy blanket.

This is the "Evening Dilemma."

You crave something warm and substantial to hold in your hands. Coffee or green tea will keep you awake all night. Herbal teas like chamomile often feel too watery or floral when you want deep comfort. You need something grounding. Something savory.

Enter the ancient Korean tradition of "Nurungji" (Toasted Rice).

The Story of the Iron Pot

Long before electric rice cookers, every Korean household cooked rice in a heavy cast-iron cauldron called a Gamasot over a wood fire.

At the bottom of the pot, a thin layer of rice would inevitably turn golden-brown and crispy. This wasn't waste; it was the prize. Mothers and grandmothers would pour hot water over this scorched rice to create a fragrant, nutty tea to end the meal.

This is the flavor of "Gu-su-ham"—a uniquely Korean word for an earthy, roasted nuttiness that signals to the brain: "You are home. You are safe. It is time to rest."

The Winter Sanctuary Collection

We have reimagined this traditional comfort for modern evenings. By blending roasted Crispy Rice with nutrient-dense superfoods, we created the perfect caffeine-free companions for your winter nights.

Beet Tea
Mood: The Evening Cleanse


Beet & Crispy Rice Tea

The Flavor: A beautiful ruby-red infusion. The natural sweetness of red beetroot balances perfectly with the savory notes of toasted rice.

Why Winter Needs It: Beetroot is known for supporting healthy blood circulation—essential when your hands and feet feel cold. It feels like a gentle, warm hug for your system.

Shop Beet Tea
Curcuma Tea
Mood: The Digestive Reset


Curcuma & Crispy Rice Tea

The Flavor: Golden and earthy. Unlike harsh turmeric shots, the roasted rice neutralizes any bitterness, creating a smooth, savory finish.

Why Winter Needs It: Heavy holiday meals leaving you bloated? Curcuma (Turmeric) is a powerful anti-inflammatory that helps soothe digestion before bed.

Shop Curcuma Tea
Pumpkin Tea
Mood: The Guilt-Free Dessert


Sweet Pumpkin Tea

The Flavor: Imagine the essence of a roasted pumpkin pie, liquefied. Rich, naturally creamy, and sweet without a single grain of added sugar.

Why Winter Needs It: Famous in K-Beauty for reducing face puffiness, this is the perfect solution when you crave a late-night sweet treat but want to wake up looking refreshed.

Shop Pumpkin Tea

How to Create Your Evening Ritual

1. Boil water to 200°F (just off the boil).

2. Pour over your tea bag and cover the mug (this keeps the essential oils in).

3. Let it steep for at least 3 minutes. For the Crispy Rice blends, leaving the bag in longer intensifies the roasted flavor.

4. Put your phone away. Wrap your hands around the warm mug. Inhale. Sip.

Explore the Full Winter Tea Collection →
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