Sbiten, the traditional beverage for wintertime in Russia, is a
drink with a long, colorful history. Research shows that sbiten
has been around since the fourteenth century. Traditionally,
Sbiten was served from oft-heated copper samovars by the
sbitenshchik, who served it up until the beginning of the
twentieth century on Russian street corners.
I have always loved all things Russian. For the past twenty
years, I have collected stamps from Russia and outlying
territories, and have an extensive collection in 2 large Scott's
Standard books. One of my favorite composers and pianist is
Kostia, whose haunting music of his Russian homeland is a
beautiful listening experience. If I am particularly stressed
out, it is Kostia I turn to. His albums include Suite St.
Petersburg and 10 Pebbles, among others.
Sbiten is made in different ways, both non-alcoholic and
alcoholic. It is the perfect antidote for long cold winters,
something Russia is famous for. Here in Michigan, it is a real
treat for us old folks that hate winter.
The word Sbiten comes the from the verb sbit--to beat or to
pound. The herbs and spices are ground in a mortar, and then
mixed with honey or molasses. It is allowed to ferment for a
short period, and then mixed with water to make a slightly
alcoholic drink. Replacing the water with a good Cabernet
Sauvignon makes for a more lively drink, one to be appreciated
by all. It is also fortified with brandy or vodka for a more
potent libation.
The basic recipe for Sbiten:
3 1/2 cups water 2 cups honey 3 cinnamon sticks 2-3 cardamom
pods, seeds removed, toasted and crushed 1/3 Tsp ground ginger 1
TBS whole cloves 2 dried chili peppers (optional) 2 TBS
raspberry or apricot jam
Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan and bring to a slow
boil over medium heat. Whisk continuously to insure honey is
well mixed. Remove from heat and allow to come to room
temperature. Strain liquid through cheesecloth into an airtight
container for storage and refrigerate until ready to bottle.
I buy 750 ml Cobalt Blue EZ Cap bottle from the local
brewmeister to bottle anything like Sbiten to present as a gift
during the holiday season. Add some fancy ribbon, a foil cap to
the bottle, and a gift card. For about $8 USD you have a
wonderful gift to present to friends or co-workers. A case of
the Cobalt Blue bottles runs about $15.00.
Find the recipe for Sbiten and many other fine foods at
http://www.allthebestrecipes.com. Many informative articles and
recipes are posted there daily.
About the author:
Alden Smith is an award winning author who is the webmaster of
http://www.allthebestrecipes.com. Visit his website for a free
660 page cookbook of Secret Famous Recipes. Free articles,
recipes, and cooking tips are available on his site.
