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Orange Tea Shot

Bright, citrusy orange tea shots pack a punch of flavor with real orange juice, brewed tea, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for quick pick-me-ups or casual entertaining, these shots can be served hot or chilled.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Servings: 4 shots
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Modern fusion
Calories: 45
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 bags black or green tea or 1 teaspoon loose leaf tea per shot
  • 1 cup 8 ounces hot water
  • 1/2 cup 4 ounces fresh orange juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons raw honey or agave nectar adjust to taste
  • Pinch of sea salt
Optional
  • 1 thin slice fresh ginger per shot
  • 1/4 teaspoon orange zest for garnish

Equipment

  • Kettle or small pot for boiling water
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Citrus juicer or handheld squeezer
  • Strainer or fine mesh sieve
  • Shot glasses or small mugs
  • Spoon for stirring
  • Knife for cutting orange

Method
 

  1. Fill your kettle with one cup of fresh, cold water and bring it to a rolling boil.
  2. Pour the hot water over two tea bags (or one teaspoon of loose leaf) in a small teapot or directly into your shot glasses. Let the tea steep for 3 to 4 minutes to extract full flavor without turning bitter.
  3. While the tea steeps, cut your orange in half and squeeze out the juice using a citrus juicer or handheld squeezer to get 1/2 cup fresh juice.
  4. Lift out the tea bags gently and squeeze them against the side of the cup with a spoon to extract every bit of tea flavor. Discard the tea bags.
  5. Pour the fresh orange juice into each shot glass, filling it about halfway. The hot tea will warm the juice slightly.
  6. Stir in 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of honey or agave per shot, adjusting based on how sweet you like your drinks. Start with less and taste before adding more.
  7. If using fresh ginger, add one thin slice to each shot now for a warming spice note that complements the citrus.
  8. Add just a tiny pinch of sea salt to each shot and stir well to brighten the overall flavor.
  9. Serve immediately while warm, or let cool slightly and pour over ice for a chilled beverage.

Notes

Use water that's just off the boil (195 to 205°F) rather than at a rolling boil to prevent scalding delicate green tea. Squeeze orange juice just before mixing to preserve bright, fresh flavor. Taste as you sweeten rather than following measurements exactly, since oranges vary in sweetness. Brew your tea slightly stronger than normal since the orange juice and honey will dilute it slightly.