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Traditional Russian Tea

A simple, traditional recipe for strong, concentrated Russian tea served in a glass cup and enjoyed with jam, honey, or lemon.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Servings: 1 cup
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Russian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 to 1.5 teaspoons loose black tea leaves
  • 16 ounces freshly boiled water 8 oz for concentrate, 8 oz for diluting
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons jam honey, or sugar (optional)
  • 1 thin slice fresh lemon optional

Equipment

  • Electric kettle or stovetop kettle
  • teapot (small, for steeping)
  • Russian tea glass cup with metal holder or regular mug
  • Teaspoon
  • tea strainer or infuser
  • small spoon for jam or honey (optional)

Method
 

  1. Fill the electric kettle with cold fresh water and bring it to a rolling boil (212°F/100°C).
  2. Warm the teapot by rinsing it with hot water, then discard the rinse water.
  3. Add 1 to 1.5 teaspoons loose black tea leaves to the warmed teapot.
  4. Pour 8 ounces boiling water into the teapot and steep the tea for 4 to 5 minutes.
  5. While the tea steeps, fill the tea glass or mug halfway with 8 ounces of freshly boiled water.
  6. After steeping, strain the concentrated tea into the prepared cup until it is three-quarters full.
  7. Stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons jam, honey, or sugar if desired.
  8. Place a thin slice of fresh lemon on the rim of the cup for garnish and traditional serving.
  9. Keep the concentrated tea warm in the teapot for additional servings by wrapping it in a towel or placing it on low heat.
  10. Serve immediately and enjoy the bold, warming flavor of traditional Russian tea.

Notes

Serve with additional jam, honey, or lemon slices and refill cups from the concentrated tea for an authentic experience.