Turkish Apple Tea
A fragrant, ruby-red hot drink brewed from dried apple pieces, hibiscus, and warm spices — the signature welcome tea of Turkish hospitality. Naturally sweet and caffeine-free.
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 cup dried apple rings or pieces
- 2 tbsp dried hibiscus flowers (or hibiscus tea bags)
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4 whole cloves
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
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1
Combine 4 cups water, 1/2 cup dried apple rings or pieces, 2 tbsp dried hibiscus flowers (or hibiscus tea bags), 2 cinnamon sticks, and 4 whole cloves in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
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2
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 8 minutes until the liquid is deep ruby-red and fragrant.
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3
Remove from heat. Stir in 2 tbsp granulated sugar until dissolved, then add 2 tsp fresh lemon juice.
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4
Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into cups or a teapot, pressing gently on the solids to extract flavor.
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5
Serve hot. Add extra sugar or lemon juice to taste.