Classic Spiced Hot Toddy

• •3 cup water
• •4 cinnamon sticks
• •12 whole cloves
• •4 whole star anise
• •4 slices fresh ginger, thinly sliced
• •8 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• •4 tablespoon raw honey
• •4 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• •4 slices lemon wheels, for garnish
• • pinch to taste ground nutmeg, freshly grated

Instructions

1. 1

   Combine the water, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and sliced ginger in a small saucepan over medium-high heat.

2. 2

   Bring to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes to infuse the aromatic spices.

3. 3

   Pre-warm four heatproof mugs or glass toddy mugs by filling them with hot tap water for 1 minute, then discard the water.

4. 4

   Add 2 ounces of bourbon, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to each pre-warmed mug.

5. 5

   Remove the saucepan from the heat. Strain the hot spiced water evenly among the four mugs (approximately 3/4 cup per mug) and stir well until the honey is completely dissolved.

6. 6

   Garnish each mug with a steeped cinnamon stick, a star anise pod, and a lemon wheel studded with remaining cloves. Dust lightly with freshly grated nutmeg and serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

• 💡Pre-warming your glassware prevents thermal shock and keeps the drink piping hot from the first sip to the last.
• 💡Feel free to swap bourbon with blended Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey, or aged dark rum depending on your flavor preference.
• 💡Adjust sweetness to taste by adding an additional teaspoon of honey if you prefer a sweeter profile to balance the lemon juice.