Feeling a little fragile this morning. After a full day of festive feasting. We had a wet, dreary, rainy Christmas Day but hardly noticed. Our theme courtesy of the gorgeous Cate. White and bright. Joyous and uplifting.

Today we woke to a picture perfect blue sky day right on cue for the start of the annual Boxing Day Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

The perfect panacea for those of us who have overindulged? Apple Tea with Raspberries, Hibiscus and Mint. Brewed from scratch. The Turkish way. Apple Tea not only soothes and cleanses but speeds up the metabolism. Increase the anti oxidant and Vitamin C hit with raspberries, hibiscus, lemon and mint.

In summer I like my tea iced. The quintessential thirst quencher.  Apple tea is delicious hot or cold. On its own with a little honey, lemon and mint. Or mixed with fruit. Ripe summer berries are abundant at this time of year and  take this tea to an extra level of deliciousness. I like to add them frozen in place of ice cubes. Come to think of it a shot of vodka wouldn’t go astray. Perhaps another time. Certainly not today. I seriously need to detox.

Turkish Apple Tea with Raspberries, Hibiscus, Lemon and Mint.

Makes 6 -8 cups

3 granny smith apples, unpeeled and uncored, cut into quarters
1 whole orange,  unpeeled, cut into quarters
1 cinnamon quill
2 whole cloves
4 cups water
1 strong cup of hibiscus tea, or your favourite fruit tea
1 1/2 cups frozen raspberries
3 – 4 sprigs of mint, rinsed
1 lemon, sliced
honey or sugar to taste

PLACE apples, oranges, cinnamon, cloves and water in a saucepan. Bring to  boil on high heat.
TURN  heat down and simmer until the fruit is tender.
REMOVE cinnamon quill and cloves.
STRAIN mixture through a fine sieve into a large jug pushing gently with the back of a spoon to remove as much liquid from the fruit pulp as you can.
MEANWHILE brew a strong cup of hibiscus tea. Add to the jug with the apple tea.
PLACE jug in the refrigerator to cool.
WHEN ready to serve add frozen raspberries, fresh mint and lemon slices to the jug. Sweeten with a little honey or sugar to taste.