Around the World in 80 Foods: Spiced Apple Tea From Asia Minor!

This delectable beverage is known as "Elma-kay" in modern Turkey

One of the most ancient and historically rich places on earth, Asia Minor has been home to glorious, fought-over kingdoms won and lost by the Hittites, Greeks, Assyrians, Scythians and Amalekites, to name but a few. Their impact and the stories and mighty fortresses they left behind stretch back and disappear into the misty annals of time. But these empires left other things behind for us to enjoy: including some of their culinary creations. Today, yet another good friend of mine, renowned archaeologist Shepherd Hardy, shares with us a simple, yet surprisingly delicious beverage that was no doubt enjoyed by all of the peoples who have inhabited Asia Minor over the centuries: both conquerers and conquered alike! Enjoy this Turkish apple tea, made only from spices, fresh fruit and honey, sure to fill you with warmth on any chilly mountain day!

You will need: 

4-5 medium-large apples

1 large cinnamon stick

3-4  very small, super-sweet  tangerines

1/2 a lemon

raw honey to taste

3 cups of water

Slice and core the apples, but do not peel. Peel the tangerines and lemon, roughly slice. Place all the fruit in a pot, with the cinnamon, honey and water. Place over a fire and steep until the fruit is very soft and mushy. Or, bring to a boil, then reduce to med-low heat and simmer until all of the fruit is soft and mushy and have therefore released all of their juices. Strain several times through a sieve, then ladle into mugs, adjust the sweetness to your liking, and enjoy!