There are so many variations and differences in the Russian tea recipe, but what surprisingly is the traditional tea recipe? How many different versions evolved?
I found a very interesting fact about the Russians and the love of this drink. I was surprised that tea was not introduced to Russia until the 17th century. This is behind other parts of the world.
The process of making it is completely different from other cultures. Prepare a concentrate (known as Zavarca) in a small pan. After that, each person pours some of this Zavarca into the tea cup.
There was a fact that I was surprised to find out here. Drinking two or three different kinds of tea at a time is not uncommon. Russians mix herbal tea and black or green tea (in the shape of Zavarca) together, then dilute this mixture with hot water. By adding hot water, you can make tea according to the taste. Adding spoonful of sugar, lemon, honey, or fruit jam is to finish in tea.
If you have not experienced a traditional Russian ceremony, or tea from Samobar, you forget the essence of Russian tradition, hospitality, comfort. It is an unforgettable experience.
First of all, it is always time for tea. The expression "sit on Samovar" means to talk slowly while drinking next to Samobar.
If you have never seen Samobar, please take the time to research this beautiful functional artistic equipment. This is a heated metal container, mostly attached to the top of the lid to hold and heat tea pot filled with tea concentrate or Zavarca.
In traditional recipes, I use tea called Russian caravan tea. This was tea which was transported from China to Russia. The trip took 18 months by a camel caravan. During the journey, tea took a smokey taste from the caravan's campfire.
Today, black or green tea is used and there is mixed Kimun tea (also known as sweetness of Chinese tea). Kimmun is generally fruity tea, but after fermentation there is bitter taste and smoked flavor.
A layer of black tea occurs in Russian teaware. There are three layers. Of course, as we have already established, the smallest teapot contains hot water to dilute the tea. Tea pot contains tea concentrate in the middle. The small teapot at the top usually contains herbal tea.
There is a whimsical beauty in the composition of a complete teapot structure. It reminds me of much of the pattern of the Russian Orthodox church on the roof of an onion. If you have the opportunity to see these beautiful teapots they will surely smile on your face. Many people are decorated with scenes and figurines of people and animals in their daily lives.
How do you make Russian tea? I now better understand all the minorities of the flavor contained in the recipe. Next time I will make a Russian tea cake and prepare to sit with Samovar and some friends with Russian tea recipe.
