Hot toddy recipe: a classic tipple, perfect for a cold winter’s eve
This week the entire country has experienced a freezing cold front. Scarves and jackets are out in full force, heaters are working overtime, and ginger shots are on display. Yes, winter is in full swing. But it isn’t all bad news. Cold winter nights provide the perfect excuse to start a toasty fire, dim the lights, grab a fuzzy blanket, and arm yourself with a warm drink. While some folks turn to a good ol’ cup of earl grey, or a decadent hot chocolate, the bolder hibernator might prefer a night cap with a bit of a kick.
A hot toddy is the perfect winter drink. It’s got citrus, it’s got honey, but most importantly – it’s got whisky. It’s basically that honey/lemon concoction your mom used to make when you were sick, if it decided to let its hair down and have a little fun.
What exactly is a “toddy”?
Don’t worry, we’re all thinking it. A “toddy” is a drink made of spirits, hot water, sugar, and sometimes spices. The word is supposedly borrowed from the toddy drink in India, which is produced by fermenting the sap of palm trees. The alcoholic element to this definition seems only to have been added in around 1786. This is definitely the most exciting “flu” juice we know of!
Sip on a classic hot toddy
Ingredients
- 50ml hot water
- 1 tbsp honey
- 50ml Laphroaig 10 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
- 25ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
- 1 lemon twist, to garnish (optional)
Method
- 1. Pour the hot water into a jug, add the honey, and stir until dissolved.
- 2. Combine the scotch, lemon juice, and bitters in a hot toddy glass (a mug is just as good).
- 3. Top the scotch mixture with the honeyed hot water and stir gently.
- 4. Garnish the drink with the lemon twist and serve hot.
