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This Russian tea recipe is pure cozy comfort in a mug and one of those nostalgic drinks that always transports me to holidays at grandma’s house. The tangy orange flavor gets a gentle lift from winter spices and a hint of tea. I love that the mix keeps well for weeks, making it easy to have something special on hand when friends stop by or the weather turns chilly.
My family always requests a jar when the holidays approach. The scent alone makes me feel like it is snowing outside even if it’s not, and seeing my kids ask for another cup makes it feel like those cozy traditions live on.
Ingredients
- Unsweetened instant tea powder: brings the base tea flavor and dissolves easily in water. Choose one with a deep aroma and fine blend for best results.
- Tang or orange drink mix: gives classic tart orange brightness. The original Tang works great but you can experiment with any citrus powder.
- Lemonade powder: supplies sweet citrus zip. Use sweetened if you like it mellow or unsweetened for more tang.
- Sugar: balances the acidity and rounds out all the flavors. Granulated white sugar works best for consistency in the mix.
- Ground cloves: elevate the fragrance and give true holiday warmth. Always use fresh ground cloves for a brighter taste.
- Ground cinnamon: offers depth plus that classic winter spice. Choose Ceylon cinnamon for aroma or stick with classic cassia for boldness.
- Nutmeg (optional): adds a gentle nutty note. For best flavor grate it fresh just before adding.
Instructions
- Prepare Your Mixing Container:
- Use a gallon-sized zip top bag to minimize dust from the powders or a very large mixing bowl if you prefer. The bag keeps everything nicely contained especially when mixing a big batch.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the tea powder, orange drink mix, lemonade powder, sugar, ground cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg into your mixing container. Be sure to measure everything carefully for a well-balanced finished mix.
- Seal and Blend:
- If you use a zip bag, seal it tightly. Take care to get as much air out as you can. Gently shake and rotate the bag, using your hands to massage the contents together until you see a uniform color and everything is evenly distributed. If using a bowl, stir with a whisk, scraping the sides to combine well.
- Store the Mix:
- Transfer your blended Russian tea powder into an airtight jar or any moisture-proof container. Keep it in a cool dry spot and it will stay fresh for weeks if not months.
- Mix Up Your Drink:
- To serve, add three or four tablespoons of the tea mix to a mug. Pour about one cup hot water over the mix for a winter drink or cold water for a refreshing iced version. Stir until dissolved completely. Adjust the strength by changing the amount of mix to suit your taste.
Clove has always been my favorite part of this recipe. Its aroma fills the kitchen just as soon as the water hits the mug and it brings back so many winter mornings spent with my mom sipping Russian tea and watching the snow fall.
Storage Tips
Store your Russian tea mix in any container with a tight lid to protect it from humidity. A glass jar is my top choice since it looks inviting on the counter. Plastic works too as long as it is airtight. Do not let moisture get in or the powder will clump.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use decaf instant tea for a caffeine-free version. If you cannot find Tang, any orange drink powder will do but choose those without artificial aftertaste. For less sweetness, cut the sugar a bit and up the amount of citrus powder to boost tartness. Fresh grated nutmeg gives a more complex flavor if you have it.
Serving Suggestions
This mix is delicious in both hot and iced versions. Make a pot of hot tea for book club or holiday brunch, or pour it over ice to take to summer picnics. Add lemon slices or a cinnamon stick for a pretty touch. You can even gift jars of the mix with handwritten tags for neighbors and friends.
Cultural and Historical Context
Russian tea as we know it became a southern American classic with roots stretching back to Eastern European tea traditions. By the mid twentieth century the Tang-lemonade blend took off in popularity, especially in church kitchens and family gatherings. It is a beloved holiday staple and a symbol of warm hospitality.
Seasonal Adaptations
Try adding a touch of ground cardamom for an exotic winter variation. Swap in dried lime zest for the lemon powder in summer. Use brown sugar and extra spices for a richer autumn blend.
Success Stories
Many home cooks love gifting this Russian tea for Christmas and teachers’ gifts. My cousin once carried jars to all her neighbors during a blizzard and they still ask for the recipe years later. It has the power to create new traditions with every batch.
Freezer Meal Conversion
The powdered mix does not require freezing but you can safely store it in the freezer if you live somewhere very humid. This helps keep it from caking and makes it even more refreshing when served cold.
Whip up a batch of this Russian tea mix and you’ll have comfort in a cup ready to share. This cozy recipe is a family favorite that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute Tang with fresh orange powder?
Yes, you can use any orange-flavored drink powder that suits your taste, though it may alter the overall flavor slightly.
- → Is this tea served hot or cold?
It's versatile—simply add the mix to hot water for a warming drink or cold water for a refreshing version.
- → How should I store the dry mix?
Keep the mixture in an airtight container or sealed bag to prevent moisture from affecting texture and flavor.
- → Can I adjust the spice levels?
Absolutely! Increase or decrease the cloves, cinnamon, or nutmeg to match your personal taste preferences.
- → What sweetener alternatives can I use?
You may substitute sugar with your preferred sweetener; just ensure it's powdered and mixes well.