Drink and be merry

A mug filled with some warm drink is the perfect companion to the long, dark evenings in autumn and winter. Tea and coffe are always welcomed, but there are other recipes to try.

Warm drinks for chilly days

Hot spice apple cider

1 gallon cider; 12 cloves; 2 cinnamon sticks; ½ lemon sliced; 1 Tbs. Honey

Mix all ingredients together in large pot. Over a low heat, simmer 10 minutes to 1 hour. Strain before serving.

Hot spices cranberry cider

2 quarts apple cider; 1 quart cranberry juice; 2 cups orange juice; ½ cup dark brown sugar; 20 whole cloves; 4 cinnamon sticks; cinnamon sticks for each individual mug

Tie together the spices in a cheesecloth. In a large pot stir together all the ingredients. Over a low heat, simmer until very warm. DO NOT BOIL. Let stand for 30 minutes and remove the spice bag. Heat again until just hot and serve with a fresh cinnamon stick in each mug. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Other warming drinks

Eggnog - A blend of milk, cream, eggs, sugar, spices, and usually some liquor, such as rum, brandy and whiskey. There is also alcohol free eggnog.

Mulled wine - Warm red or white wine with citrus fruits, spices, sugar and usually fortified with brandy.

Toddy - It usually means a spiced, alcoholic drink with a water base.