Traditional Hot Toddy Recipe

Hot water: The base of the drink, providing warmth and helping to dissolve the other ingredients.

Honey: Adds sweetness and a soothing quality to the drink.

Lemon juice: Provides a tangy flavor and a boost of vitamin C.

Whiskey: Adds depth and warmth to the beverage.

Lemon: Used as a garnish to enhance the presentation and add a hint of citrus aroma.

Cinnamon stick: Used as a garnish to add a touch of spice and a pleasant aroma.

When preparing a hot toddy, ensure that the water is just off the boil to avoid scalding the honey and lemon juice. This will help preserve their natural flavors and beneficial properties. Stir the mixture thoroughly to fully dissolve the honey and evenly distribute the whiskey. For an extra touch of flavor, consider lightly bruising the cinnamon stick before adding it to release more of its aromatic oils.

• Hot water - Substitute with herbal tea: Herbal tea can add additional flavor and warmth, enhancing the overall taste of the hot toddy.

• Honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and depth of flavor, while also being a natural sweetener.

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar tartness and acidity, making it a suitable alternative for lemon juice.

• Whiskey - Substitute with rum: Rum can provide a different but complementary flavor profile, adding a touch of sweetness and warmth.

• Lemon slice - Substitute with orange slice: An orange slice can add a slightly different citrus note, while still providing a fresh and aromatic garnish.

• Cinnamon stick - Substitute with star anise: Star anise offers a unique, aromatic spice that can enhance the flavor complexity of the hot toddy.

• Allow the hot toddy to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and maintains the integrity of the whiskey and lemon juice flavors.
• Transfer the cooled hot toddy into an airtight container. Mason jars or glass bottles with tight-fitting lids work best to preserve the freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The hot toddy can be kept refrigerated for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed properly to avoid any absorption of other fridge odors.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the hot toddy gently. Pour the desired amount into a microwave-safe mug and heat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until hot. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• If you plan to freeze the hot toddy, pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. Seal the container tightly.
• Label the container with the date of preparation. The hot toddy can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, transfer the container from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat as mentioned above.
• Always garnish with a fresh lemon slice and a new cinnamon stick after reheating to maintain the best presentation and flavor.

• Pour the leftover Traditional Hot Toddy into a small saucepan.
• Heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
• Avoid bringing it to a boil to preserve the flavors of the whiskey and lemon juice.
• Alternatively, you can reheat it in a microwave-safe mug.
  • Microwave on medium power for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature.
• Once reheated, garnish with a fresh slice of lemon and a new cinnamon stick for an aromatic touch.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

• Kettle: Used to boil the water for the hot toddy.

• Mug: The vessel in which you will mix and serve the hot toddy.

• Spoon: Used to stir the ingredients until the honey is dissolved.

• Knife: Necessary for slicing the lemon for garnish.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to slice the lemon.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of honey and lemon juice.

• Jigger: Used to measure the whiskey accurately.

Boil water in advance: Use an electric kettle to quickly boil water while you gather other ingredients.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the honey, lemon juice, and whiskey beforehand to streamline the process.

Use a microwave: Heat the water in the microwave for a faster alternative to boiling.

Ready garnish: Slice the lemon and have the cinnamon stick ready to go before you start mixing.

Batch preparation: If making multiple servings, mix the honey, lemon juice, and whiskey in a larger container and pour into individual mugs.