It is flu season. Everyone in my family has succumbed to this illness this past month. I am not one to fall victim to all the advertising out there for flu remedies. I’ve seen the research. At the best, they might relieve a few symptoms, sometimes with the side affect of actually making the duration of the illness longer. They are expensive, and their worth is dubious. At the same time, like most people, I want something to help me to relax and fall asleep when the flu and colds strike.
Hot toddies come to the rescue! This warm, comforting beverage feels good going down and tastes great! It is an old fashioned drink bringing visions of my Scottish grandmother mixing hot toddies on cold, wet evening while telling stories of the old country. The alcohol helps with relaxation and sleep, and for those who don’t drink, there are nonalcoholic versions too.
There are a lot of hot toddy recipes floating around, but I have worked long and hard to perfect this recipe. The key is using high quality ingredients. I select the best Darjeeling tea and whiskey that I can afford. Ginger wine is an absolute necessity for an authentic Scottish taste and can be bought commercially or made at home. (It is also good mixed with gingerale or lemonade in the summer.)
To make the perfect hot toddy, start by brewing one cup of Darjeeling tea. While the tea is steeping, mix the following ingredients in a saucepan: ¼ cup whiskey, ¼ cup ginger wine, four cloves, and a pinch of cinnamon. Add the tea when it is done steeping. Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat but do not allow it to come to a boil. Finish it up by removing the beverage from the heat and let it sit for five minutes so that the flavors can blend.
Strain the hot mixture into two mugs and enjoy! Remember that alcoholic beverages have a dehydrating effect so do not substitute hot toddies for the plenty of fluids you should be getting when you are sick, and of course, don’t drink and drive.
If you want a hot toddy without the alcohol, try this quick and easy version. Put one teaspoon of sugar and one lemon slice in a mug. Fill the mug with boiling water. Add a cinnamon stick and let it sit for five minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick, sprinkle with nutmeg, and serve. This is an excellent version for children, or for in the morning when your throat is sore and you need to head out to work regardless.
Whichever hot toddy you choose to drink, it is sure to warm you up and help you feel better. Enjoy a hot toddy the next time you catch a cold, and you will be able to rest a little easier.
