Cinnamon Apple Iced Tea

It’s been so hot here in Lahore this past month of June that all we did was drink, drink and drink to stay hydrated. My kids, plants and pets were equally unhappy and restless cooped up inside. Finally monsoon is here and the evenings are pleasant enough to sit outside in the lawn. What better way to enjoy a peaceful summer afternoon with bare feet caressing the moist grass, a good book in one hand and a refreshing homemade drink in the other!

I’ve been trying to whip up healthy and delicious concoctions the entire summer to keep my family away from cola and fizzy drinks. Cinnamon Apple Iced tea is one of my most favourite of summer drinks,and there is something very calming about the delicious aroma of apples with cinnamon – a divine flavour combination that reminds me of cool Autumn breeze in the middle of scorching summer.

This very easy to make drink, bursting with goodness, can be made in a large quantity even for a big gathering. Crisp and aromatic apples with fragrant cinnamon, minty freshness and zesty lime makes a thirst quencher that soothes the nerves as well. To enhance the enhance the flavour and glamorise the look, you can chuck in slices of some other colourful summer fruits as well, like halved strawberries, sliced peaches or whole cherries. This is something you can drink and drink and drink some more without feeling guilty. It even makes for a beautiful hot tea during winter. Just brew the same way and enjoy with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon.

6 cups water
2 tea bags Twinings’ Breakfast Tea or any tea of your choice
2 cups fresh apple juice
2 sticks cinnamon
2 lemons, cut into slices/wedges
A few sprigs fresh mint leaves
1/2 cup lemon juice
1/2 cup honey
Lots of ice

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the cinnamon sticks and let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

Turn the heat off, add 2 tea bags of your favourite tea, cover the pan and let it brew for another 10 minutes.

Scoop out the tea bags and the cinnamon sticks. Add the brewed tea to a pitcher.
Add the apple juice and 2 cups cold water.

Fill the rest of the pitcher with lots of ice. Chuck in lemon wedges and fresh mint sprigs.

Serve with lemon juice and honey on the side.

Serves 6