Amazing Russian Tea Recipe: Two Delicious Ways

I can still remember the first time I tasted “Russian Tea.” It was at a holiday gathering years ago, and I was instantly enchanted by its warm, spicy, citrusy aroma. The host simply mixed a spoonful of a powdered blend into hot water, and suddenly, my mug was filled with cozy comfort. I wondered then, as many people do, “Is this truly Russian?” I quickly learned that the answer is a little more nuanced than a simple yes or no.

Today, I want to share both the Americanized instant drink I first encountered and delve into the fascinating world of authentic Russian tea traditions. Get ready to explore a drink that’s perfect for chilly evenings, festive occasions, or any time you need a hug in a mug. The best part? The classic instant Russian Tea recipe I’m sharing takes only about 5 minutes of prep time!

What is American “Russian Tea”? (The Tang Drink)

When most Americans talk about “Russian Tea,” they are likely referring to a delightful powdered drink mix. This beloved concoction typically combines instant orange drink, unsweetened lemonade mix, instant tea, sugar, and a blend of warm spices. You simply stir a few teaspoons into hot water, and a comforting beverage is ready to enjoy.

If you’re looking for another festive beverage, you might enjoy an Amazing Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate Recipe.

For many, this specific drink holds a deep nostalgic appeal, especially during the holiday season. It has become a cherished tradition in homes across the Southern United States, signaling warmth, festivity, and togetherness. I often find myself making a big batch to keep on hand all winter long.

The History of This American Drink

The American version of Russian Tea truly blossomed in the mid-20th century, particularly in the Southern US. This era saw a significant rise in “convenience culture” and the widespread popularity of instant foods. Homemakers were looking for quick, easy, and affordable ways to bring delicious flavors to their family tables and gatherings.

A recipe featuring readily available ingredients like Tang and Kool-Aid fit perfectly into this trend. It became an incredibly popular and simple way to add a festive and unique touch to potlucks, church events, and holiday parties. I think it’s a testament to good taste that it has remained so loved for generations!

Why is it Called “Russian Tea” if it’s Not From Russia?

This is a question I get asked all the time, and it’s a great one! The name “Russian Tea” for this American powdered mix is likely a nod to the perceived exoticism and allure of tea and spices during the mid-20th century. At that time, associating a beverage with a distant, tea-rich land like Russia added a certain mystique.

Russia has a deep and historic tea culture, making the name evocative even if the drink itself bears little resemblance to traditional Russian tea preparation. I believe the name successfully captured the imagination, suggesting a sophisticated, spice-infused drink perfect for special occasions.

Instant Russian Tea Recipe (The Tang Recipe)

This is the classic, nostalgic recipe that many people know and love, a true taste of American holiday tradition. It’s simple, quick, and makes a generous batch you can enjoy all season long. I know you’ll love having this mix ready in your pantry!

Ingredients for Instant Russian Tea

• 1 lb. jar instant orange drink (Tang)
• 1 pkg. unsweetened lemonade Kool-Aid
• 3/4 cup unsweetened instant tea
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Instructions for Instant Russian Tea

• Mix all ingredients well and store in tightly closed container.
• Add to hot water as many teaspoons as desired to taste.

Ingredient Variations & Substitutions for Instant Russian Tea

While the classic recipe holds a special place in my heart, I always encourage you to make recipes your own! There are definitely ways to customize this instant Russian Tea to suit your preferences or dietary needs. It’s all about finding what tastes best to you.

Sugar-Free Version

If you are looking to reduce the sugar content, a sugar-free version is absolutely doable! I recommend using sugar substitutes like Stevia, Monk Fruit, or Erythritol in place of regular sugar. You can also find sugar-free versions of instant orange drink (like sugar-free Tang) and sugar-free lemonade Kool-Aid. Keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly from the original, but it can still be wonderfully delicious and satisfying.

Tang Alternatives

While Tang is the classic choice, you have options if you want to switch things up. Other orange drink brands, such as Sunny Delight powder or even store-brand equivalents, can work well. For a more “from-scratch” approach that still captures the essence, I have heard of blending dehydrated orange peel powder with a little citric acid for tang and a touch of turmeric for color.

Spice Variations

The spice blend in Russian Tea is so comforting, but feel free to experiment with it. I suggest adding a pinch of allspice, nutmeg, or even a touch of cardamom for a different flavor profile. Each of these spices will alter the overall taste, so I recommend starting with small amounts and adjusting to your liking. A little goes a long way!

How to Store Instant Russian Tea Mix

Proper storage is key to keeping your instant Russian Tea mix fresh and flavorful. I always transfer my freshly made mix into an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place, like your pantry or a cupboard, away from direct sunlight and humidity. This will prevent any clumping and help maintain its delightful flavor. When stored correctly, the mix can last for up to a year, ready whenever a craving strikes!

Creative Gifting Ideas for Russian Tea Mix

This instant Russian Tea mix makes such a thoughtful and cozy gift, especially around the holidays! I love putting together little themed baskets. You could fill a beautiful, decorative jar with the mix and pair it with a nice mug, a cute tea infuser, and a few whole cinnamon sticks.

I’m even working on a printable, stylized gift tag and recipe card you can download to make your gifts extra special! Consider adding some cheesy christmas tree bread to the gift basket for a delicious combination.

A “From-Scratch” American Russian Tea Recipe

If you love the flavor profile of the instant version but prefer to use whole, less processed ingredients, I have a fantastic “from-scratch” American Russian Tea recipe for you. It aims to mimic that beloved sweet, citrusy, and spicy taste using ingredients you can feel good about. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a healthier, homemade twist on a classic.

Ingredients for “From-Scratch” Russian Tea

• 1/2 cup finely ground dried orange peel
• 1 tablespoon citric acid (food grade)
• 1/4 cup finely ground black tea leaves
• 1 cup coconut sugar (or other granulated natural sweetener)
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions for “From-Scratch” Russian Tea

• In a large bowl, combine the finely ground dried orange peel, citric acid, finely ground black tea leaves, coconut sugar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
• Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are uniformly combined.
• Store the homemade mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
• To serve, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of the mix to a mug of hot water, stirring until dissolved. Adjust the amount to your personal taste preference.

What is Authentic Russian Tea?

Stepping away from the instant mix, I want to introduce you to what authentic Russian tea truly means. In Russia, tea is much more than just a drink; it’s a central part of hospitality, social gatherings, and daily life. The concept of Zavarka is key here, which refers to a very strong tea concentrate. Drinking black tea has a range of health benefits as it contains lots of powerful antioxidants.

Traditionally, this zavarka is brewed in a small teapot, often kept warm. Guests then pour a small amount of this concentrate into their cup and dilute it with hot water, typically from a samovar. A samovar is a beautiful, ornate heated container that continuously boils water. This method allows each person to customize their tea’s strength exactly to their liking. I find this approach so communal and inviting.

How to Make Authentic Russian Tea (Zavarka Method)

Making authentic Russian tea using the zavarka method is a beautiful ritual, and I promise it’s quite simple to do at home, even without a samovar. This accessible recipe for the traditional version uses black tea leaves and allows you to customize your tea strength perfectly.

Ingredients for Authentic Russian Tea

• 2 tablespoons loose leaf black tea (such as Lapsang Souchong or Ceylon)
• 1 cup boiling water

Instructions for Authentic Russian Tea

• Place the loose leaf black tea into a small, heatproof teapot or a French press.
• Carefully pour 1 cup of freshly boiled water over the tea leaves.
• Allow the tea to steep for 5 to 7 minutes. This will create a very strong tea concentrate, known as zavarka.
• To serve, pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of the zavarka into a teacup.
• Fill the remainder of the cup with hot water from a kettle, adjusting the amount of hot water to achieve your desired tea strength. You can serve it plain, with a slice of lemon, a spoonful of sugar, or even a dollop of jam, which is a popular Russian custom.

Comparison Table: American vs. Authentic Russian Tea

I find it fascinating to see the distinct characteristics of these two “Russian Teas” side-by-side. Both offer warmth and comfort, but in very different ways!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Whether you’re stirring up a batch of the nostalgic, sweet, and spicy American Russian Tea or engaging in the mindful ritual of brewing authentic Zavarka, both experiences offer a unique kind of comfort. I truly believe both are delicious in their own way, each carrying its own story and cultural significance.

I hope I’ve inspired you to try one, or even both, of these wonderful traditions. Which version are you most excited to try first? Do you have any family traditions around making or enjoying Russian Tea? I would love for you to leave a comment below, ask any questions you might have, or share your results if you try either recipe! I can’t wait to hear from you.

Emily

Amazing Russian Tea Recipe: Two Delicious Ways

I can still remember the first time I tasted “Russian Tea.” It was at a holiday gathering years ago, and I was instantly enchanted by its warm, spicy, citrusy aroma.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Course: Beverage

Cuisine: American, Russian

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients for Instant Russian Tea

• 1 lb jar instant orange drink (Tang)
• 1 pkg unsweetened lemonade Kool-Aid
• 3/4 cup unsweetened instant tea
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Ingredients for “From-Scratch” Russian Tea

• 1/2 cup finely ground dried orange peel
• 1 tablespoon citric acid (food grade)
• 1/4 cup finely ground black tea leaves
• 1 cup coconut sugar (or other granulated natural sweetener)
• 1 tsp ground cloves
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Ingredients for Authentic Russian Tea

• 2 tablespoons loose leaf black tea (such as Lapsang Souchong or Ceylon)
• 1 cup boiling water

Method

 

1. Mix all ingredients well and store in tightly closed container.
2. Add to hot water as many teaspoons as desired to taste.
3. In a large bowl, combine the finely ground dried orange peel, citric acid, finely ground black tea leaves, coconut sugar, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon.
4. Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are uniformly combined.
5. Store the homemade mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
6. To serve, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of the mix to a mug of hot water, stirring until dissolved. Adjust the amount to your personal taste preference.
7. Place the loose leaf black tea into a small, heatproof teapot or a French press.
8. Carefully pour 1 cup of freshly boiled water over the tea leaves.
9. Allow the tea to steep for 5 to 7 minutes. This will create a very strong tea concentrate, known as zavarka.
10. To serve, pour 1 to 2 tablespoons of the zavarka into a teacup.
11. Fill the remainder of the cup with hot water from a kettle, adjusting the amount of hot water to achieve your desired tea strength. You can serve it plain, with a slice of lemon, a spoonful of sugar, or even a dollop of jam, which is a popular Russian custom.

Notes

Proper storage is key to keeping your instant Russian Tea mix fresh and flavorful. I always transfer my freshly made mix into an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place, like your pantry or a cupboard, away from direct sunlight and humidity. This will prevent any clumping and help maintain its delightful flavor. When stored correctly, the mix can last for up to a year, ready whenever a craving strikes!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!