Embrace the nostalgic warmth of a classic instant russian tea recipe, a cherished beverage that instantly transports you to cozy gatherings and festive holidays. This delightful drink is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy individuals and beginners alike. Its comforting aroma and sweet-spicy flavor make this a wonderful addition to any special occasion or a simple, relaxing moment at home.
Why You’ll Love This Russian Tea
This delightful russian tea blend is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons.
- It calls for simple, readily available pantry ingredients you likely already have.
- Preparation is incredibly quick, requiring just a few minutes to mix the dry ingredients.
- This comforting drink is perfect for warding off chills on a cold day.
- Enjoy a timeless, comforting taste that evokes cherished memories.
- It is fantastic for sharing with loved ones or packaging as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Classic Instant Russian Tea Mix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine Tang, lemonade mix, instant tea, sugar, ground cloves, and cinnamon.
- Whisk or stir thoroughly until evenly combined and no clumps remain.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight storage container.
- To serve: Add 2–3 tablespoons of mix to a mug, pour 8–10 ounces of boiling water, and stir until dissolved.
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick or an orange slice if desired, and enjoy warm.
Notes
Ingredients
Crafting this delicious instant russian tea recipe requires just a few pantry staples.
- 1 lb. jar instant orange drink (Tang)
- 1 pkg. unsweetened lemonade Kool-Aid
- ¾ cup unsweetened instant tea
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Notes & Substitutions
Tang, the iconic instant orange drink, is still widely available in most grocery stores. If you cannot find it, look for other brands of instant orange-flavored drink mixes. For the lemonade, be sure to use an unsweetened mix, as this recipe relies on adding sugar separately for perfect balance. Regarding instant tea, opt for unsweetened to control the sweetness; if you use a sweetened variety, adjust the sugar in the recipe accordingly. Always use ground cloves for this blend; whole cloves will not mix properly and create an unpleasant texture. For an extra layer of warmth, consider adding a pinch of ground allspice.
Equipment
You only need a few basic kitchen tools to prepare this simple russian tea recipe.
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or large spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight storage container
- Kettle or pot for hot water
- Mugs for serving
Instructions
Creating your own batch of this delightful instant russian tea recipe mix is incredibly straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect blend every time.
- Start by combining the entire contents of the Tang powder in a large mixing bowl. Ensure your bowl is spacious enough to accommodate all ingredients.
- Next, add the unsweetened lemonade Kool-Aid mix to the bowl.
- Carefully stir in the unsweetened instant tea powder. Make sure to use unsweetened for best results.
- Pour in the two cups of granulated sugar. This provides the ideal sweetness for your instant Russian tea.
- Add one teaspoon of ground cloves to the mixture. Ground spices are essential for even distribution.
- Sprinkle in two teaspoons of ground cinnamon. These spices give the mix its signature comforting flavor.
- Using a whisk or a large spoon, thoroughly combine all the dry ingredients. Mix until the color is uniform and no clumps remain. This ensures every serving of the classic russian tea recipe tastes consistent.
- Carefully transfer the completely mixed powder into an airtight storage container. A large jar or food-grade canister works perfectly.
- To serve, scoop your desired amount, typically 2-3 tablespoons, into a mug. Adjust to your personal preference.
- Pour approximately 8-10 ounces of boiling water over the mix in the mug.
- Stir until the powder is fully dissolved and the hot beverage is smooth. Take a moment to enjoy the fragrant steam.
- Taste the Russian tea and adjust the strength or sweetness by adding more mix or a touch more sugar, if desired.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Achieving the perfect russian tea mix is simple with a few helpful hints. Always ensure all dry ingredients are mixed thoroughly and evenly to prevent flavor pockets. Store your prepared mix in a cool, dry, and dark place to maintain its freshness and prevent clumping. If using a sweetened instant tea, remember to reduce the granulated sugar in the recipe to avoid an overly sweet drink. For the best flavor and texture, rely on ground spices; whole spices will not dissolve and will create an unpleasant experience. Should the mix clump over time due to humidity, simply break apart the lumps with a spoon before serving.
Serving, Storage & Variations
This versatile russian tea blend offers many possibilities for enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish your hot cup of Russian tea with a fresh orange slice or a cinnamon stick for an elegant touch. This comforting beverage pairs wonderfully with classic holiday cookies, shortbread, or even a simple slice of pound cake. Serve it in your favorite festive mugs to enhance the cozy experience.
Storage
The dry Russian tea mix stores exceptionally well. Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dark pantry. Properly stored, your mix will remain fresh and flavorful for several months, making it perfect for preparing ahead.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with sugar substitutes like erythritol or stevia if you prefer a lower-sugar option. For a more complex spice profile, add a pinch of ground cardamom or nutmeg to the dry mix. This recipe is also ideal for making a large batch; package the mix in decorative jars for thoughtful and homemade gifts during the holiday season.
Nutrition
The nutrition information provided here for this instant russian tea recipe is an estimate based on the ingredients listed. Exact values can vary significantly depending on specific brands and serving sizes. We recommend consulting a certified nutritionist or using a reliable nutrition calculator for precise dietary values based on your prepared batch.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Estimate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80-100 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 10-20mg |
| Total Carbs | 20-25g |
| Sugars | 20-25g |
| Protein | 0g |
FAQ
Why is it called Russian Tea?
This beverage gained popularity in the American South, often associated with holiday entertaining. Its name likely stems from the historical practice of serving hot tea with spices or fruit. Historically, iced tea was often referred to as iced tea à la Russe, especially when served with sugar and lemon.
What is Russian Tea made with?
This specific instant russian tea recipe combines instant orange drink, unsweetened lemonade mix, instant tea, sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves.
Is Tang still available?
Yes, Tang instant orange drink is still widely available in most major grocery stores and online retailers. Generic instant orange drink mixes also work.
Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the granulated sugar with your preferred sugar alternative, such as erythritol or stevia, to create a sugar-free version.
Conclusion
This classic instant russian tea recipe offers a perfect blend of simplicity, warmth, and nostalgic flavor. It is an incredibly easy and budget-friendly way to bring comfort to your home, whether for everyday enjoyment or holiday entertaining. Embrace the joy of crafting this inviting beverage and let its comforting spices become a cherished family tradition. We encourage you to make a batch and share your favorite memories and serving tips with us.
