When my sisters and I were growing up, my grandmother would make us hot Russian tea and bring it to us. Most kids would probably think that they wouldn't like an orange-y clove tea, but at four years old, we loved it and continue to make it every year together.
History
Every time she brought us this tea, we would make a cup and have it with each other — It brought us together in its own way. I think my sister Nadia loved it the most, and would have as many of the cups of hot Russian tea as my mom would allow. There is something about a recipe that has been in your family for years feels special. My grandmother, Nanny says that her grandmother and great grandfather used to make it for her when she was kid. Whether the sentimental value healed us or the tea, we were feeling better. It is a tasty, hot Russian tea that is perfect for when you are sick. Having a hot drink at night when you are sick helps calm you and the spices are good for you, too. .
Recipe
If you want to try it for yourself, here is the recipe.
Combine all of these ingredients into a mason jar:
- 20 ounce jar of Tang Orange Powdered Drink Mix
- 1 cup of Decaf Lipton Unsweetened Black Iced Tea Mix
- 1 cup sugar or Splenda
- 1 heaping teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 heaping teaspoon of clove
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Then, add three tablespoons of the mix with 8 oz hot water and drink ☕️.
My Nanny is a sweet, caring grandmother that is always around for us — whether it is to make us hot Russian tea when we are sick or to tell us about how proud she is of her grandchildren. Every time I make this tea, I feel a piece of her inside my little college house and instantly feel a sense of happiness. If you make this tea, you should also feel this happiness because she would be so proud that this tea is being passed on to our generation.
As my Nanny said on the phone, this is what they used to make before the Hotty Toddy came around —this hot Russian tea is great when you are sick or wanting to feel cozy on a night in.