Chifir'

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Chifir' (or alternatively "chifir" without the soft sign (Russian: Чифи́рь or чифи́р)), is a type of strong tea brewed in Russia. It is closely associated with the prison system of Russia, and is typically drunk by inmates. It has a mild psychoactive effect.[1]

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[edit] Etymology

The etymology is uncertain but is thought to come from the word "chikhir'" (чихирь) meaning both a strong Caucasian wine[2], or a Siberian word for wine that has gone off and become sour and acidic.[3]

[edit] Preparation

Chifir' is typically prepared with either two or three tablespoons of loose tea per person (if in prison, a matchbox is often used to measure it out) poured on top of the boiled water.[2] It is brewed for 10-15 minutes without stirring - until the leaves drop to the bottom of the cup. It is then drunk, customarily by passing around a single cup from which each inmate takes two sips. Chifir' is drunk without sugar, because it amplifies the effect to the point of being highly unpleasant (intense headaches and tachycardia) and can possibly lead to a cardiac arrest in case of a large overdose by someone with a weak heart. Sweets can be held in the mouth during or after drinking to soften the shockingly bitter taste of chifir'. [1]

[edit] In popular culture

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b Чай, чифирь, купец (Russian)
  2. ^ a b Чай и чифирь в тюрьме (Russian)
  3. ^ Чифирь (Russian)
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