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Holiday Spiced Simmer

This simmering beverage combines warm spices like cinnamon and citrus with an unexpected hint of star anise and bourbon. It involves simmering ingredients gently to release aromatic flavors, resulting in a fragrant, slightly spicy, and rich winningly textured liquid that can be strained and served warm.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Holiday
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups water
  • 2 dried star anise pods star anise
  • 2 cinnamon sticks cinnamon sticks
  • 1 orange orange zested
  • 1 lemon lemon zested
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup bourbon optional, for depth

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Nutmeg Grater

Method
 

  1. Pour water into a saucepan, then add star anise, cinnamon sticks, and the orange and lemon zests. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, allowing the aroma to start filling the air as the spices release their scent.
  2. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture gently simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, watching for small bubbles but avoiding a rapid boil. This slow simmer helps the flavors meld and develop a fragrant aroma.
  3. Remove the saucepan from heat and strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a heat-proof container, discarding the solids. This step ensures a smooth, gritty-free beverage.
  4. Stir in the honey until fully dissolved, then add bourbon if using. Adjust sweetness or strength according to taste, and warm the mixture gently if needed without boiling.
  5. Pour the hot spiced simmer into mugs, allowing the fragrant steam to escape and fill your space with seasonal warmth. Serve immediately, garnished with extra citrus zest or a cinnamon stick if desired.

Notes

Adjust the amount of bourbon for a stronger or milder flavor. Be cautious not to over-reduce heat during simmering to prevent bitterness. Straining is key to achieve a silky smooth beverage.