5 Non-Alcoholic Drinks That Take You Away

We all know that short breaks from work, school, homemaking, and caregiving are important to take. Fifteen to 30 minutes may not seem like a lot, but it can be depending on what you choose to do. Unplugging by meditating, dancing to music, going for a walk, or eating a healthy meal or snack are excellent choices. However, sometimes, we crave something different and daydream about being elsewhere.

Through drink, as well as food, we experience bits and pieces of other countries. Here are five non-alcoholic drinks that take you away to different parts of the world through mind and spirit.

1. Cardamom-Spiced Coffee

Cardamom is a spice that originated from India and is popular in the United Arab Emirates. The light-green pods impart a fantastic herbal aroma. One may smell the combination of cardamom and coffee perfuming the air while strolling through the souks and malls of Dubai.

To escape to the desert land of Dubai, combine:

• 1 toasted cracked cardamom pod
• 2 tablespoons cream or non-dairy creamer
• 6 fluid ounces strong coffee
• Sweetener, such as honey or herbal sugar substitute, to taste

Allow the cardamom to steep for a few minutes before drinking.

2. Cinnamon-Kissed Cocoa

Cinnamon came from South India, Sri Lanka, and Burma (now Myanmar), and cocoa came from Latin America. In Mexico, a touch of cinnamon has been added to cocoa and chocolate candies and desserts for years.

To get a taste of Mexican tradition, stir together:

• 1 heated snapped cinnamon stick
• 1 packet hot cocoa mix
• 6 fluid ounces hot water

Let the cinnamon soak for a minute or two before consuming.

3. Jus de Framboise or Fruit Teas

The purest-tasting fruits – particularly blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries – can be found in Quebec, Canada. Jus de framboise or raspberry juice is a unique refreshment offered among the standard drinks at some cafes.

While picturing the rows of green fruit plants and trees in rural Quebec, sip on raspberry juice or blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry teas.

4. Acai Smoothie

Acai is a fruit native to South American countries. The dark-purple berries are mashed or pureed, frozen, and used to make breakfast-type beverages and bowls in Brazil.

To savor the flavor of the Amazon, add a packet of frozen acai, a well-ripened banana, and a plant-based milk substitute, such as almond or soy, to a blender and blend to your preferred consistency.

5. Teas of the Orient

Oolong is a “go-to” tea commonly served in Chinese restaurants. Genmaicha is a lovely green tea made with roasted brown rice from Japan. 

To take a mental trip to the Orient, sip on either of these teas.

Suggestions

These five drinks are great to enjoy while taking a break and during occasions themed around these countries (India, The United Arab Emirates, Mexico, Canada, Brazil, China, and Japan). Enjoy jus de framboise at a French-Canadian-themed brunch or genmaicha at a Japanese tea party or sushi dinner.

What about you? Do you drink any non-alcoholic beverages from other countries to take your mind and spirit to different parts of the world? Which ones? Comment and share this post below.