Russian Tea Recipe

Water: The base of the tea, used to brew the black tea leaves.

Black tea leaves: Provides the strong, robust flavor typical of Russian tea.

Orange juice: Adds a citrusy sweetness to the tea.

Pineapple juice: Contributes a tropical note and additional sweetness.

Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the tea.

Ground cloves: Provides a deep, aromatic flavor.

Sugar: Sweetens the tea to balance the spices and fruit juices.

When preparing the black tea leaves, ensure you use freshly boiled water to extract the best flavors. Steeping for exactly 5 minutes is crucial; any longer, and the tea may become too bitter. After straining, when adding the orange juice and pineapple juice, make sure they are at room temperature to prevent shocking the hot tea, which could affect the overall taste. Stirring in the ground cinnamon and ground cloves thoroughly ensures that the spices are evenly distributed, enhancing the aromatic profile of the tea. Finally, adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference, keeping in mind that the juices already add natural sweetness.

• water - Substitute with coconut water: Adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of tropical flavor.

• black tea leaves - Substitute with green tea leaves: Provides a lighter, more delicate flavor while still offering a robust tea base.

• orange juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Offers a tangy, citrusy flavor that complements the spices well.

• pineapple juice - Substitute with apple juice: Adds a mild sweetness and a fruity undertone without overpowering the other flavors.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground nutmeg: Provides a warm, spicy flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

• ground cloves - Substitute with ground allspice: Offers a similar warm, spicy profile with a hint of sweetness.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Adds natural sweetness and a slight floral note, enhancing the overall flavor.

• Allow the Russian tea to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can dilute the flavors.
• Transfer the cooled tea into an airtight container. Glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers work best to maintain the integrity of the tea.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The tea can be kept fresh for up to 5 days.
• For freezing, pour the Russian tea into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays. This allows you to thaw only what you need.
• Label the containers with the date of preparation. This helps you keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the tea in the refrigerator overnight or reheat gently on the stove. Avoid using the microwave as it can alter the flavor profile.
• If you prefer a stronger flavor after thawing, add a fresh splash of orange juice or pineapple juice and a pinch of ground cinnamon before reheating.
• Always stir well before serving to ensure the spices and juices are evenly distributed.

• For a quick and easy method, pour the Russian tea into a microwave-safe mug and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Stir well before serving.
• If you prefer a more even heat, transfer the tea to a small saucepan and warm it over medium heat on the stovetop. Stir occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature.
• For a larger batch, pour the leftover tea into a slow cooker and set it to low. Let it warm for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• If you have a double boiler, use it to gently reheat the tea without risking a burnt flavor. Place the tea in the top part and simmer water in the bottom part until the tea is warm.
• For a more traditional approach, use a samovar if you have one. Pour the tea into the samovar and let it heat gently, preserving the rich flavors.

• Teapot: Used to boil the water for steeping the black tea leaves.

• Strainer: Essential for straining the tea leaves after steeping.

• Large pot: Needed to mix the tea with juices, spices, and sugar, and to heat the mixture.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the ground cinnamon and ground cloves accurately.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the water, orange juice, pineapple juice, and sugar.

• Stirring spoon: Used to stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are combined.

• Stovetop: Required to heat the mixture until warm.

• Serving cups: For serving the hot Russian tea.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out water, black tea leaves, orange juice, pineapple juice, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and sugar before starting to save time during preparation.

Use a tea infuser: Instead of straining tea leaves, use a tea infuser for easy removal after steeping.

Simmer together: Combine all ingredients in one pot and simmer together to save time on multiple steps.

Pre-mix spices: Mix ground cinnamon and ground cloves in advance to quickly add them to the mixture.

Batch preparation: Make a larger batch and store in the fridge to reheat later for quick servings.