Ingredients
Scale
Creating these drinks at home is a delightful way to savor the flavors of Germany in your own kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups apple juice (preferably unsweetened)
- 1 cup sparkling water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 cloves
- 1 star anise
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, or use maple syrup for a vegan alternative)
- 1 orange, sliced
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- 1 cup black tea, brewed and cooled (for a more robust flavor)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
Feel free to substitute the apple juice with pear juice for a sweeter twist or add a splash of elderflower syrup for a floral note. The beauty of these drinks lies in their adaptability, much like the way my mum would tweak a recipe depending on what we had in the pantry.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the process of creating these delightful beverages:
- Start by combining the apple juice and sparkling water in a large pitcher. This is the base of your drink, reminiscent of the simple joy of mixing ingredients on a quiet morning in my mum’s kitchen.
- Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise to infuse the drink with warm, spicy notes. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Sweeten the mixture with honey or maple syrup, stirring until fully dissolved. Taste and adjust according to your preference.
- Add the orange slices and mint leaves for a burst of freshness and aroma.
- Pour in the brewed black tea and lemon juice, stirring gently to combine all the flavors. This step always reminds me of the care my mum put into each cup of tea she brewed.
- Allow the mixture to chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This gives the spices time to impart their full flavor, much like a well-marinated stew.
- Serve over ice, garnished with a sprig of mint and a slice of orange for a touch of elegance.
Enjoy the process, and remember, cooking is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International