How to Slice and Steep Prince of Peace Wisconsin Ginseng Roots

By Excellent Brands from Aroun | Published: 2026-10-31

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to slice American ginseng root and steep Wisconsin ginseng for a balanced, earthy cup. A practical guide for small round ginseng roots.

Quick answer

To slice and steep Prince of Peace Wisconsin American Ginseng small round roots, rinse and gently scrub the root, slice it into thin 1/8-inch coins, and steep 3–5 slices in hot water (about 190–200°F) for 5–10 minutes. Adjust the number of slices and steeping time to your preferred strength.

Why small round roots need a slightly different approach

Small round ginseng roots are compact and dense, so they can be trickier to slice evenly than long, thin roots. Their rounded shape means you need a steady hand and a sharp knife to avoid thick, uneven pieces that steep inconsistently. Taking a moment to flatten one side of the root before slicing can make the process safer and more uniform.

Unlike long roots that can be sliced crosswise into uniform coins, small round roots may need to be halved lengthwise first. This creates a flat surface that stabilizes the root on the cutting board and allows you to cut thinner, more consistent slices. Thinner slices expose more surface area to the water, which helps extract flavor and beneficial compounds more efficiently.

Steeping temperature and time: finding your balance

American ginseng has a mild, slightly sweet and earthy flavor. Steeping it in water that is too hot or for too long can bring out bitterness, while under-steeping leaves the cup thin and grassy. A water temperature around 190–200°F (just below boiling) is a good starting point. If you don’t have a thermometer, bring water to a boil and let it rest for a minute or two before pouring.

Start with a 5-minute steep and taste. For a stronger cup, add more slices rather than steeping longer, as extended steeping tends to increase bitterness. You can also re-steep the same slices two or three times, increasing the time slightly each round. The flavor will gradually fade, which is normal.

When to choose whole roots vs. pre-sliced

Whole roots give you control over slice thickness and freshness, but they require a bit more prep time and a good knife. Pre-sliced ginseng saves effort but may include inconsistent pieces and can lose potency faster once exposed to air. If you plan to use ginseng regularly, buying whole roots and slicing them as needed is often more economical and flavorful. Store unused slices in an airtight container away from light and heat.

Step-by-step: slicing and steeping small round ginseng roots

Rinse and scrub the root: Under cool running water, gently scrub the root with a soft brush to remove surface dirt. Pat dry with a paper towel. Common mistake: skipping this step leaves grit in your tea. Check for any soft spots or mold and discard those roots.
Halve the root lengthwise: Place the root on a stable cutting board and cut it in half lengthwise to create a flat surface. This makes slicing safer and more even. Checkpoint: use a sharp knife and keep your fingers curled away from the blade.
Slice into thin coins: With the flat side down, slice crosswise into 1/8-inch (3 mm) thick pieces. Aim for uniform thickness so they steep evenly. Common mistake: slicing too thick, which leads to weak flavor and wasted root. A mandoline on its lowest setting can help if you struggle with consistency.
Measure your slices: Use about 3–5 slices per 8-ounce cup of water. For a pot, use 10–15 slices per quart. Adjust based on how strong you like your tea. Checkpoint: start with fewer slices; you can always add more next time.
Heat water to the right temperature: Bring water to a boil, then let it cool for 1–2 minutes to reach about 190–200°F. Pour over the slices in a teapot or cup. Common mistake: using rolling boiling water, which can make the tea bitter.
Steep and taste: Cover and steep for 5 minutes, then taste. For a stronger cup, steep up to 10 minutes or add more slices. Strain and enjoy. Checkpoint: if it tastes bitter, reduce steeping time next round. The same slices can be re-steeped 2–3 times, adding 2 minutes each time.

Product facts

Prince of Peace Wisconsin American Ginseng Small Round Roots, 6oz: Prince of Peace Wisconsin American Ginseng Small Round Roots are carefully selected from high-quality roots grown in Wisconsin’s mineral-rich soil. The small round shape means you’ll need to halve or stabilize the root before slicing for even pieces.
Prince of Peace Wisconsin American Ginseng Small Round Roots, 6oz