Apple-Cinnamon Kukicha Tea--A Warming "Simple Saturday Sipper"

I have been drinking a lot of kukicha tea lately--kukicha tea, also called "twig tea" is a Japanese tea blend where the twigs, stems and stalks of the green tea plant are slow roasted repeatedly which gives it a slightly "roasty" and nutty flavor. It is considered to be high in antioxidants and be a healthy tea that is very balancing to the system. Although kukicha tastes great plain, and iced with spices and juice (see that post here), I thought it would be good mixed with apple cider, orange juice and cinnamon for a cooler weather "Simple Saturday Sipper."

Apple-Cinnamon Kukicha Tea

by Deb, Kahakai Kitchen

(Makes 2-3 servings)

3 cups unsweetened apple cider or juice

juice of 1 orange

2 cinnamon sticks

2 kukicha tea bags

orange or lemon slices to garnish

Place apple juice, orange juice and cinnamon sticks in a small sauce pan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, add kukicha tea bags and simmer for 5 minutes. Pour into tea cups or mugs and serve garnished with a cinnamon stick and orange or lemon slice.

Notes/Results: Very good! The natural sweetness of the apple cider and orange juice combine well with the roasted flavor of the tea and the cinnamon adds a nice touch. A perfect warming cup for a cold, blustery afternoon. A nice alternative to mulled cider, I will make this throughout the season.

What is your favorite cold, blustery day drink?