A hotter toddy
Is it just me or is this cold/flu season hitting particularly hard?
I suffered the better part of November with a lingering cough that I couldn’t kick (although I would’ve kicked it hard, wearing a pair of steel-toed Doc Martens, if I could) – and the more people that I talk to, the more I realize that this is one monster of a cold going around. But never fear … there are remedies! Good ones! In this weekend’s Wall Street Journal, a suggestion for an outstanding one went something like this:
Hot Toddy
In a large cup, combine 1 spoonful honey, juice of 1/4 lemon, 1 cinnamon stick, small dash of cayenne (optional but recommended) and the tea bag of your choice. Stick 3 cloves into 1 small lemon wedge and add to the cup. Pour in a slug of bourbon, as much or as little as you like. Fill cup with boiling water, stir well and let steep 5 minutes. Savor slowly; repeat as necessary.
Yes! Cayenne and tea jazz up this classic recipe. The writer suggests Earl Gray, Chai, ginger tea or, indeed, chamomile, if you’re seeking a little sleeping solace. I have whiskey in the house, but no bourbon (and I do think that Jim Beam would be a delightful choice in this scenario), but now have a good (and health-giving) reason to buy some.
If you try this recipe, please tell me what you think!
Posted on 7, January 2013, in Drink and tagged bourbon, cold, drink, flu, hot toddy, recipe, remedy, tea. Bookmark the permalink. 4 Comments.
Great post Trish – just tweeted it out to my followers!
Gehan
Thanks, Gehan! And happy new year!
Trish, have you tried Leopold Brother’s New York Apple Whiskey? It’s delicious and heated up, perfect for colds and sore throats.
Hi Ally, I’ve never tried it but it sounds yummy! Which reminds me, I do have some Calvados (French apple brandy) at home – a little strong, but might also be a good substitute for bourbon!