A Recipe for Russian Tea and Writing

The change of seasons is always bittersweet — especially around the first snowfall — and for writers especially, it’s nice to have a warm beverage that matches your mood! So, in honor of the first little snow flurry — and the death of my poor garden — I’ve decided to share my Mom’s recipe for Russian Tea.

Lauralee’s Russian Tea

With all the spices of the season, this tasty treat is sure to put you in the holiday mood. So, in true Mama Driscoll fashion, pull on two pairs of your wooliest socks, put on your “indoor coat,” turn on the space heater, and let’s get cooking!

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 3 oranges
• 3 lemons
• 2 cups pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon whole cloves
• 2-3 cinnamon sticks
• 5-6 teabags (black, preferably Earl Grey)
• Up to 2 cups sugar or honey

Directions

Squeeze the oranges and lemons, and set their juice aside. Place the rinds in a 4-quart pot and cover with water, almost to the top. Add cloves and cinnamon sticks, and allow the mixture to boil for 15 minutes. Add the teabags and let them steep for 5 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool.

In a gallon jar, add 2 cups of sugar — or honey, to taste — and add the pineapple juice, fresh orange juice, and lemon juice to the jar. Finally, strain the contents of the sauce pan into the jar, give the contents a good stir, and refrigerate.

Can be served hot, or poured over ice . . . if you’re into that kind of thing.

Wherever you are on your writing journey, I hope this tea keeps you warm and well, and gives you just enough spice to set your ideas flowing.

So, go forth!

Boil your citrus fruits, don your socks, and harness the power of the changing season.

Happy writing!

What are your favorite writing recipes? Feel free to comment below!