Beverage
Sbiten with Orange Currant (Traditional Russian Honey Spice Drink)
Original name: Sbiten with Orange Currant
About this dish
Sbiten is a traditional Russian winter beverage made with honey, spices, and fruit. This version adds bright orange and tangy currant for a refreshing twist on the classic.
It's soothing, aromatic, and surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
water
liquid1 liter (4 cups)
Imperial measurement: 4 cups
Honey
other150 grams (1/2 cup)
Imperial measurement: 1/2 cup
Black currants
fruit150 grams (1 cup) fresh or frozen
Imperial measurement: 1 cup
Orange
fruit1 medium, sliced
Cinnamon stick
spice1 stick
Cloves
spice3 whole
Star anise
spice1 whole
Ground ginger
spice1/2 teaspoon
Method
Combine ingredients
PT0MIn a medium saucepan, combine water, honey, black currants, orange slices, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and ground ginger if using.
Heat gently
PT10MPlace over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Do not boil vigorously.
Simmer and steep
PT10MReduce heat to low and let steep for 10 minutes to infuse flavors.
Strain and serve
PT0MStrain through a fine-mesh sieve into a teapot or directly into mugs. Serve hot, optionally garnished with a fresh orange slice or a few currants.
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Mugs or teacups
Nutrition facts
Tips
- For a more intense spice flavor, crush the spices lightly before adding to the pot., Use fresh or frozen black currants, if they are unavailable, substitute with blueberries or cranberries for a similar tartness.
- Not a fan of whole spices?
- You can.
- You can tie them in a piece of cheesecloth for easy removal before serving.
- This sbiten is best fresh but can be refrigerated and reheated gently for up to 2 days.
Serving suggestions
- Serve hot in thick glass mugs, perhaps with a cookie or small pastry on the side. It's a wonderful alternative to coffee or tea after a winter walk.
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Recipe by
Anya Ivanov
Specialises in Russian cuisineAnya makes pelmeni in batches of 500. She says freezing them is the only way to survive winter.
Describe yourself in three words: Stoic, efficient, freezer queen.