As much of the country is gripped in a deep freeze, this is the perfect time to brew up hot spiced tea, which is a comforting and flavorful beverage, especially during these cold, winter months. Nothing could be better after spending an afternoon out playing in the snow or digging out the driveway than wrapping one’s cold hands around a steaming mug of tea and savoring the spicy aroma!
Even if you are only “enjoying” the snow through the window, the ritual of preparing and enjoying hot spiced tea can be a relaxing and wonderful pleasure and offers a delightful substitute to plain tea.
One can always buy spiced teas, but if you have the spices on hand, it is so easy to make your own. Try this one to begin with, then start experimenting on your own.
EASY HOT SPICED TEA IN A CUP
1 heaped teaspoon black tea
1 lemon slice
1 1/2-inch piece of cinnamon stick
1 whole clove
1 cup boiling water
Combine all ingredients except the water in a teapot. Add the boiling water; let steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Strain into a teacup.
Serves One
HOT SPICED ORANGE-PINEAPPLE TEA
6 cups water
1 teaspoon whole cloves
1 (1 inch) piece cinnamon stick
6 heaped teaspoons black tea
¾ cup orange juice
½ cup white sugar
¼ cup pineapple juice
2 tablespoons lemon juice
Pour water into a pan; add cloves and cinnamon stick. Bring water to a boil; remove from heat. Add tea leaves to water. Cover pan and then steep for 5-8 minutes. Strain and discard cloves, cinnamon stick, and tea leaves.
Stir orange juice, sugar, pineapple juice, and lemon juice together in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Cook and stir the juice mixture until the sugar dissolves completely. Pour juice mixture into the spiced tea; serve hot.
Store leftover tea in refrigerator and reheat as needed.
Serves Six.