Apple-Orange-Hibiscus Infusion: An Afternoon Pick-Me-Up and "Simple Saturday Sipper"

For this week's "Simple Saturday Sipper" I was looking for a little something to perk me up in the middle of a long lecture/study session, so I tried this simple Apple-Orange-Hibiscus Infusion from a book called "Aromatic Teas and Herbal Infusions" by Laura Fronty. This tisane or infusion has no tea or caffeine but a delicious fruit flavor and the scent of the orange zest is very energizing. The book says: "If you need a pick-me-up when the day is getting a little long, try this tea instead of regular tea, especially if you tend to suffer from insomnia."

Apple-Orange-Hibiscus Infusion

"Aromatic Teas and Herbal Infusions" by Laura Fronty

(Makes 2 Cups)

Peel from 1/2 apple or a few cubes of dried apple

zest from oorganic orange

4 teaspoons hibiscus flowers

2 cups water

Finely dice apple peel and orange zest. Heat the teapot in advance and add the hibiscus, apple peel and orange zest. Add boiling water and let steep for at least 10 minutes. Sweeten to taste.

Notes/Results: A nice tangy-citrusy combination. I sweetened it with some local honey and also added some vanilla. (The author mentioned that vanilla, cinnamon or ginger could be added if desired). A good choice for afternoon or evening, it would be nice iced and the pretty dark pink color would make it fun for a shower, luncheon or child's tea party. I would make it again.

Happy Saturday!