Early'S Russian Tea
Early'S Russian Tea is a nostalgic, sweet and spicy beverage mix that combines tangy citrus flavor with warming cinnamon. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting treat, this simple homemade mix yields a flavorful drink that appeals to both children and adults seeking a nostalgic taste of home.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a bowl.
- Use 2 teaspoons of the mixture per cup of hot water to prepare a warm, flavorful beverage.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter drink, adjust the sugar to your taste, but remember that the Tang adds sweetness too. If you prefer a caffeine-free option, use herbal tea instead of instant tea. You can also add a pinch of cloves or nutmeg for extra warmth. This mix can be adapted for iced variations, similar to Spiced Iced Tea, by blending with cold water and ice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this warm beverage in mugs, ideally garnished with a cinnamon stick or a slice of lemon for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Oriental Cabbage Salad as a light meal or snack. For a festive occasion, consider serving it alongside Denise Walker's Wedding Punch for a delightful beverage spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It should last for several months. To reheat, simply mix 2 teaspoons of the mix with hot water in a cup. If you want to make a larger batch, mix the desired amount in a pot on the stove until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Early'S Russian Tea contains roughly 1516 calories, with 23g protein, 255g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (317% of the Daily Value), iron (182% of the Daily Value), and calcium (149% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1257mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I adjust the sweetness of this tea mix?
Yes, you can customize the sugar content based on your preference. Start with 1/2 cup of sugar and taste the mixture before adding more. Keep in mind that Tang already contributes sweetness, so adjust accordingly.
Can I make this recipe without Tang?
Certainly! If you're looking for a more natural flavor, you can replace Tang with a combination of orange juice powder and a bit of sugar. This will maintain the citrus flavor while reducing artificial ingredients.
Is this drink suitable for a crowd?
Absolutely! You can easily scale the recipe up for larger gatherings. Prepare a big batch in a pot, keeping the ratio of ingredients consistent, and serve it in a punch bowl for guests to help themselves.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).