Orange And Spice Tea
A warm, spicy orange-infused tea with cinnamon and cloves, perfect for cozy mornings or relaxing evenings, offering comforting citrus and aromatic spice flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine water, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
- Bring to a boil; remove from heat.
- Add tea bags; let stand for 5 minutes.
- Remove tea bags.
- Stir in orange juice and brown sugar; heat through.
- Pour the mixture through a wire strainer into 4 mugs or cups.
- Serve with orange slice quarters if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider steeping the tea bags longer than 5 minutes if you prefer a stronger brew. You can substitute the brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. If you don't have whole cloves, ground cloves can work in a pinch—just use a pinch instead of whole. This tea pairs beautifully with Rita's Famous Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tea warm in mugs or cups, garnished with a slice of orange for a pop of color and added flavor. It makes a delightful afternoon drink or a cozy evening tea. Consider pairing it with light snacks like cookies or scones, or alongside Mediterranean recipes for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat until hot, being careful not to boil. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange And Spice Tea contains roughly 894 calories, with 8g protein, 160g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 467mg per serving (20% 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 make this tea ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tea in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat gently before serving. For best flavor, it's recommended to consume it within 3 days.
Is it possible to make this tea caffeine-free?
Absolutely! You can use herbal tea bags instead of traditional black or green teas. Options like rooibos or chamomile will complement the spices beautifully and provide a caffeine-free experience.
How can I make this recipe more festive?
For a festive twist, consider adding a splash of rum or brandy to the tea just before serving. You can also enhance the spice profile with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. This can elevate the flavors and make it perfect for holiday gatherings.
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).