Step 1

Toast the dried bael directly in a pan over moderate heat for a minute or two to release the aroma and boost flavors.

Step 2

Remove the bael from the pan.

Step 3

Bring the drinking water to the boil and then add in the toasted bael. Reduce the heat and simmer for 25 minutes.

Step 4

Remove from the heat and remove the large pices of bael with a slotted spoon. Add in the sugar and stir to dissolve.

Step 5

It is best to allow the bael to cool before pouring through a cloth filter to remove any remaining small particles. Transfer to a large covered jug and refrigerate. The drink will keep for several days refrigerated.

Step 6

Add one part bael tea to two parts plain water served over ice. Adjust taste if preferred by adding more or less water to dilute.