How to Make the Ultimate Winter Nightcap

Three hot toddies that work

Feel free to prepare a larger batch of these cocktails by using a slow cooker or a low stove setting. Enjoy these warm fireside drinks and embrace their soothing effects.

The hot toddy is a classic winter drink with a long and storied history. Some say it originated in Scotland in the 18th century, where it was used to disguise the taste of raw Scotch. Others believe it comes from the Hindi word “tārī,” a cold drink made from the sap of the toddy palm.

No matter where it came from, the hot toddy quickly became popular throughout the British Isles.

The Classic:

Ingredients:

• 60ml Scotch Whisky

• 120ml hot water

• 1 tsp honey

• 1 lemon wedge (or 15-25ml lemon juice)

Preparation:

Pour the Scotch into a mug. Add honey. Slowly pour hot water over the spoon used for honey. Squeeze the lemon wedge and drop it into the mug. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving. Grate a pinch of nutmeg on top if desired.

The Tea:

Ingredients:

• 60ml London Dry Gin

• 120ml hot water

• 1 tsp honey

• 1 herbal tea bag (chamomile, Rooibos, Honeybush)

Today, we know that alcohol doesn’t cure colds, but it can still be a soothing and comforting drink. Here are three recipes for hot toddies that you can try this winter.

The recipes are for single servings, but you can easily make a larger batch in a slow cooker or on the stove top. So gather your ingredients and get ready to warm up with a delicious hot toddy!

Try these three winter elixirs to fight off colds and keep the chill away:

• 1 slice of lemon

Preparation:

Steep the herbal tea bag in hot water. Add the gin and stir in honey. Add a slice of lemon and serve.

The Herbal Healer:

Ingredients:

• 60ml dark rum

• 120ml hot water

• 1 tsp finely chopped ginger

• 2 cinnamon sticks

• 2 cloves

• 1 lemon wedge

• 1 tsp honey

Preparation:

Pour the rum into a mug. Add honey. Slowly pour hot water over the spoon used for honey. Squeeze the lemon wedge and drop it into the mug. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.

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