Welcome to a warm, festive escape with our Herbal Wassail recipe. Imagine a gentle mug of herbal goodness, perfect for a soothing winter’s evening surrounded by family and friends. This delightful drink is not just a beverage; it’s an experience that brings everyone together, warmed by the aromatic infusion of seasonal herbs and spices. Herbal Wassail is a refreshing twist on the traditional drink, ideal for adding a touch of creativity to your holiday season. Gather in your cozy corner, wrapped in a warm blanket, under soft lighting as the herb-infused scents fill the air. Let’s dive into this sensory journey!
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 8 cups apple cider
- 1 orange, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 10 whole cloves
- 4 star anise
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
Instructions
- Pour the apple cider into a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the orange and lemon slices to the pot.
- Drop in the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
- Stir in the dried rosemary, sage, and thyme.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Taste and add honey if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Stir well to dissolve.
- Once ready, strain the wassail to remove the herbs and spices. Serve hot in mugs, garnished with a fresh cinnamon stick and a mix of dried herbs.
Helpful Tips
- For a stronger herbal flavor, let the wassail steep for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Consider adding a splash of cranberry or pomegranate juice for a tangy twist.
- If preferred, use agave syrup or maple syrup as a honey substitute.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover herbal wassail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat before serving.
Pairings
Herbal Wassail pairs wonderfully with gingerbread cookies, pumpkin pie, or a savory cheese platter. Add a cozy blanket and a good book for the perfect relaxing evening.
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