Tea and orange juice may not be the combination that first comes to mind when you are thinking up new recipes for your next brunch, but we think it’s a combination you should definitely try. So, we paired orange juice with three of our favorite teas to create a delicious trio of drinks that are sure to delight your palate.
This type of iced tea is a recipe that’s been used for ages in the east central part of the U.S. The use of sweet and citrusy orange juice is a great way to impart natural sweetness to iced tea, while also boosting the health content and minimizing processed sugar. It’s the healthier cousin to southern style sweet tea. It can be steeped traditionally and then chilled or cold brewed and later combined with orange juice to your liking. Of course you can also add flavorings such as sugar, more fruit or herbs, or even alcohol. Why not try this as a mimosa by making a tea and orange juice iced tea spiked with champagne? Or for a non-alcoholic version simply add a splash of sparkling water.
For our flight of tea and orange juice combinations we used three very different teas to exemplify the range of flavors that actually work really well with this tea and juice combination. One thing to note is that when you are making any iced tea that’s going to have additional ingredients, you should start with a very strong cup of tea. This way you don’t lose the flavor of the tea you started with as more ingredients are added. Check out our post on how to make iced tea with loose leaf tea for more tips.
The first tea and orange juice combination uses our Comfort Blend Tea. With its flavors of orange and spice, it lends itself wonderfully to the addition of orange juice. This one is also good served hot with just a splash of orange juice for when you’re feeling a little down. Since it’s full of wonderful antioxidants and vitamin C, it’s a great pick-me-up.
Another great combination that is a perfect way to fancy up an outdoor soiree is our Gratitude Blend tea. The hints of strawberry combine perfectly with the orange juice to create a fruity burst of flavor. This is also a great combination to use if you’re interested in making a tea mimosa. Add a sliced strawberry on the rim for an even more decadent feel and aroma while enjoying.
Finally, try this combination with our Citrus Mint green tea and we are sure you will not be disappointed. The already-present citrus notes blend together harmoniously for this lightly flavored tea. Add a sprig of fresh mint as a garnish, or even muddle some in for extra flavor. This is another combination that works well with the addition of champagne.
Next time you have a craving for a delicious naturally-sweetened beverage, try these tea and orange juice combinations. We are positive that you will be pleasantly surprised. One of them might even become your next go-to summer drink!
