Russian Tea

It’s that time of year when Mother Nature is having a bipolar moment and can’t make up her mind. Last week we enjoyed temps in the 70’s. This week, not so much! Time to strengthen the body’s defenses against all these temperature fluctuations.

Enter Russian Tea!

I acquired this recipe many years ago from my then-mother in law. I have no idea why it’s called Russian Tea since there is no vodka in it. And I never thought to ask her where the name came from.

What I can tell you is that it is loaded with vitamins that are sure to help protect you from winter-time woes. Even if you don’t need it’s protection, it’s a drink that is perfect for fire-gazing while the storm rages outside.

I took the liberty of reducing the amount of sugar called for in the original recipe. With the sweetened juices, the added sugar seemed like overkill. I’ve also made it without sugar and it’s still just as good.

Everyone’s taste is different. So if you’re not sure, you can always add the sugar last, after it’s completely heated and you’ve had a chance to sample it.

This has really become my go-to drink for cooler weather. If you’re looking for a change from hot chocolate or apple cider, you really need to give Russian Tea a try.

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Russian Tea Ingredients:
1 – 46 oz. Pineapple juice
1 – 16 oz. frozen orange juice concentrate
1/4 c. lemon juice
3 large/family size tea bags
2 quarts of water plus 2 cups
25 whole cloves
1/2 c. sugar (optional)

Make it:
Place the tea bags and cloves in 2 c. water and microwave for 5 minutes. Be sure not to let it boil over. If possible, let it brew for thirty minutes or more.

While the tea is brewing, pour the pineapple juice, orange juice and lemon juice into a large crock pot or one that will hold at least 6 quarts. Add the sugar, if using.

Remove the cloves from the brewed tea and place in cheesecloth or a tea ball. Add the brewed tea and 2 quarts of water. Add the tea ball filled with cloves, cover and set the crock pot on low for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally. Remove the cloves before drinking.

I like to enjoy Russian Tea straight from the crock pot. This is one of those drinks that’s really great on a cold, blustery day. So, if you like, you can leave it on low heat and enjoy it’s goodness all day long and into the evening. Just be sure to remove the cloves after 3-4 hours or you’re going to have a very bitter drink on your hands.

When you’re ready to store it, it should keep in the fridge for a week or two. But I doubt it will last that long, it’s soooo good!

If you want to warm it up, just pop a cup in the microwave for about 60 to 90 seconds, depending on your microwave. Make sure you stir before pouring.

Don’t have time for the microwave? It’s just as good cold, in place of your morning O.J. Again, make sure you stir it before pouring.

My M-I-L always made this when the family gathered during the holidays. But really, any time you’re dealing with weather extremes, Russian Tea would be an ideal drink to help boost the immune system. And because it’s a vitamin packed power house, you might want to keep it in mind the next time you or someone you love, starts getting the sniffles. You just might be able to head off an impending cold or flu!

I do hope you’ll give Russian Tea a try. If so, please leave a comment below and let me know what you thought of it. It might just become your new family tradition!

Enjoy,

lisa

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