Hot Toddies are warming wintertime drinks that people often sip as a remedy for colds, coughs, sore throats and the flu. Hot Toddies are sometimes made with hot water or apple cider, but many people (myself included) prefer to make them with tea, which imparts an added flavor and (according to some studies) aids in lessening the symptoms and duration of the common cold.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: One serving
Ingredients:
- 1 cup filtered water
- (Optional) 5 cloves
- (Optional) 1 stick cinnamon
- (Optional) 1 piece star anise
- 1 Tbsp. black tea (preferably a strong Keemun black tea or one of these Hot Toddy tea choices from About.com's Cocktails guide)
- 1 Tbsp. honey (preferably a strong, dark honey)
- 2 ounces brandy, dark rum or whiskey / whisky (Personally, I prefer Jameson Irish Whiskey for Hot Toddies.)
- 1 wedge lemon
Preparation:
- Combine water and spices in a pot.
- Bring water to just below boiling and remove from heat.
- Add tealeaves.
- Steep for 4 minutes, and then strain into a large mug.
- Stir in honey.
- Float brandy, rum or whiskey on the top of the drink.
- Squeeze lemon into the mug.
- (Optional) Drop the lemon into the mug for a stronger citrus flavor.
