Alas, the first major snowfall of the season! Winter, it seems, has finally arrived… and with a BANG! These drink recipes are great for entertaining guests or enjoying alone with a good book. Regardless of how you enjoy them, these festive drinks should keep you toasty warm this holiday season.
Christmas Cider
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp whole allspice
- 1 tbsp whole cloves
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- zest of 1 orange (or orange peel with pith removed)
- 2 slices peeled fresh ginger, 1/2 -inch thick slices
- 1/2 gallon organic apple cider (or low-sulfide red wine if you’re so inclined)
Directions:
- In a medium saucepan, heat cider over medium-high heat
- Place allspice, cloves, cinnamon, orange zest and ginger into a cheesecloth and tie with a string. Place cheesecloth with spices into the saucepan.
- Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally for 6-8 minutes or until desired flavor is achieved (I like to let it simmer as guests arrive – it makes the house smell delicious and festive!)
- Remove spice pouch and serve warm
- Garnish with a cinnamon stick (optional)
– Dr. Angela Warburton, TCMP
Healthy Holiday Hot Chocolate
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp raw, unsweetened cacao powder
- 1 tbsp organic coconut oil
- 1-2 tsp raw honey
- pinch of sea salt
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup unsweetened almond or coconut milk
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend for 20 seconds. You can also combine all ingredients in a pot and whisk until all ingredients are combined.
- Serve and enjoy!
– Kristin Tait, Holistic Nutritionist
Citrus Spice Tea
Ingredients:
- 4 pieces dried orange peel
- 5 leaves fresh mint
- 3 whole green cardamom pods
- 2 two-inch pieces grapefruit zest
Directions:
- Toss all ingredients in a teapot
- Pour boiling water into the teapot and allow the ingredients to steep for approximately 10 minutes.
- Strain through a mesh sieve and enjoy!
– Recipe by Dr. Angela Warburton, TCMP & Toronto-based chef, Joshna Maharaj