Sea Buckthorn Tea

Sea Buckthorn Tea (Облепиховый чай) is a crazy popular tea in Russia and Eastern Europe. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, very tasty with a flavor you've probably never enjoyed before!

Sea Buckthorn Superfood

Most people haven't heard of or eaten Sea Buckthorn Berries. Native to Central Asia and Russia, but found growing in colder climates. Used in traditional medicine, it's full of antioxidants, nutrients which are said to support heart health, digestion, boosts immune system and helps with healthy skin. I call it a natural Soviet Superfood as everyone in former USSR knows about it!

Ingredients

• Sea Buckthorn Berries
• Honey
• Cinnamon Stick
• ½ an Orange
• Boiling Water

How to Make Sea Buckthorn Tea

1. Process - place thawed Sea Buckthorn Berries into a wide mouth jar or container. food processor. Blend with a Stick or Immersion Blender until smooth and processed. Can also use a food processor for larger portions (ideal when freezing).
2. Strain - push the pureed Sea Bucktorn through the sieve, using a spoon to press through the mesh separating the seeds and juice.
3. Slice - wash orange and cut into slices. Optional, can add some orange zest into teapot.
4. Prepare - place Sea Buckthorn juice, Orange Slices, Honey and a Cinnamon Stick into a teapot.
5. Steep - pour boiling water through the sieve to capture all the flavor, allow to steep for a few minutes and serve hot.

Sea Buckthorn Tea Variations

• Natural - just steep Sea Buckthorn Berries and water, a classic method, sweeten to taste
• Fresh Herbs - add fresh Mint, fresh Rosemary or Fresh Thyme to you tea
• Spiced Tea - in addition to Cinnamon, add 2 Cloves, Fresh Ginger or a Star Anise
• Citrus Tea - substitute with your favorite citrus like Lemon, Grapefruit or Mandarin, or add Orange Juice
• Add Tea - instead of adding boiling water, steep Black Tea in advance (like a Zavarka) and add to teapot - or try Green Tea

Recipe Tips and FAQs

• Freeze the Puree - this is a timesaver. Prepare extra Sea Buckthorn Berry Puree and pour into an icecube tray and freeze. When you're ready to make tea, use one frozen block of berries to one cup of boiling water, so easy!
• Steep for 15 Minutes - this is the recommended amount of time to release the full flavor into your tea - however I find that the tea is too cold for me as I like my tea hot
• Don't Use Full Boiling Water - for maximum nutrients, it's recommended to use hot water at 195°F (90°C) when steeping. Again, I prefer my tea hotter, so its up to you if you like maximum nutrients or will enjoy the tea as is
• Cool Tea - alternatively, prepare tea and allow to fully cool. Keep refrigerated and enjoy as a cold tea

What Does Sea Buckthorn Taste Like?

It's a completely unique taste. Tart, tangy and slightly sweet undertones. Has a bit of a tropical flavor, but is astringent and has an oily quality.

Can I Use Frozen Sea Buckthorn?

Yes. This is probably the most likely way you will find Sea Buckthorn Berries, unless you have some growing in your yard. Also frozen puree is a fast method to enjoy this fruit tea.

Drink Recipes You'll Love

• Citrus Russian Tea
• Berry Kompot
• Sea Buckthorn Vodka Infusion
• Homemade Hot Apple Cider
• Bread Kvas
• Blackcurrant Juice
• Thyme Tea (Чай с Чабрецом)

You'll love this Seabuckthorn Tea recipe because of the health benefits, flavor, the many recipe variations, plus it's so easy to make. Considered a detox tea due to nutrients and antioxidants. Commonly served in restaurants in Russia and Central Asia, one of my favorite ways to enjoy this tea. Bon Appetit! Приятного аппетита!

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