There’s something magical about the way a warm cup of tea can envelop you in comfort and nostalgia. Russian tea, in particular, is more than just a beverage; it’s a cultural tradition that has been passed down through generations. Let’s embark on a journey to create the perfect cup of Russian tea from scratch, capturing the essence of its rich flavors and inviting warmth.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 3 black tea bags (Assam or Darjeeling work well)
- 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 4 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1/4 cup honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup cranberry juice
- Lemon and orange slices for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a rolling boil. The amount of water can be adjusted depending on the number of servings you wish to make.
- Once the water is boiling, add the black tea bags to the saucepan. Let the tea steep for about 5 minutes to achieve a rich, robust flavor. If you prefer a stronger tea, feel free to steep it for a little longer.
- Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and add the whole cloves and cinnamon sticks to the tea. These spices will lend a warm and aromatic touch to the brew. Allow the flavors to meld together for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the honey to sweeten the tea. The honey not only adds a natural sweetness but also complements the spice notes beautifully.
- Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon and orange juices, adding a burst of tangy citrus flavors. For an extra burst of color and taste, include the cranberry juice.
- Using a fine-mesh strainer, carefully strain the tea into teacups or a teapot. This will ensure that any tea leaves or spices are removed, leaving you with a smooth and delectable beverage.
- To enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of elegance, garnish each cup with a slice of lemon or orange.
