Wassail is a traditional warm beverage often associated with the Christmas season. It’s made with a combination of fruit juices, spices, and sometimes alcohol. Here’s a simple recipe for traditional wassail:
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon (about 4 liters) apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 10-12 whole cloves
- 4-6 cinnamon sticks
- 1-2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 1-2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1-2 cups dark rum or brandy (optional)
- Sliced oranges and cinnamon sticks for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Spices:
- In a small cheesecloth or a spice bag, tie up the whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. This will make it easier to remove the spices later.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large pot or slow cooker, combine the apple cider, orange juice, pineapple juice, and lemon juice.
- Add Spices:
- Place the spice bundle into the pot, and add brown sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
- Warm the Wassail:
- Heat the mixture over medium heat on the stove or set the slow cooker to low. Allow it to warm through, but avoid boiling.
- Infuse Flavors:
- Let the wassail simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
- Add Alcohol (Optional):
- If you’re adding alcohol, stir in the rum or brandy a few minutes before serving. Be cautious not to boil the mixture if adding alcohol.
- Serve:
- Remove the spice bundle.
- Ladle the wassail into mugs or cups.
- Garnish with sliced oranges and additional cinnamon sticks.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the wassail warm and enjoy the festive flavors.
Wassail is a versatile beverage, and you can adjust the sweetness and spice levels to suit your taste. It’s a delightful drink to share during holiday gatherings or cold winter evenings.