Turkish Apple

Turkish Apple is an infusion, but is often referred to as a "tea" which technically is incorrect. There is often confusion about the definition of what constitutes "tea", and to which beverages the name can be applied. Traditionally, tea is made from one plant only - camellia sinensis - from which thousands of different teas are made across the world, all determined by the variety of the tea plant, where and how it was grown, and the method used to make it. In comparison, an infusion is a beverage which can be made from bark, root, leaves, flowers, fruits - in fact, anything that can be safely infused and drunk. So correctly Turkish Apple should be referred to as an infusion. 

However, this does not detract from how delicious it is  ... and also means its caffeine free!

Besides robust black tea Turkish Apple infusion is one of the most popular hot beverages served in Turkey. Known as Elma Cayi it can be seen being drunk out of small tulip shaped glasses all over Turkey. The wonderfully balanced sweet and sour taste is both delicious drunk piping hot in winter or as a cold beverage in summer. To enjoy cold: select a heat proof jug and follow the ratio of water to weight as on the packet but initially cover the dry infusion with boiling water and leave for 5 minutes.Then top up with the correct volumne of cold water to the weight you have used. Leave in the fridge over night. Sieve and enjoy over ice with the addition of extra apple pieces and lemon slices if you wish. Or use as a base for a cider punch with the addition of spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg at christmas time!