The weather in the South has finally turned colder, making it feel
like it really is December and the season for celebrating the holidays with
friends and family. With everyone’s busy schedules it can be difficult to find
a time when everyone can get together. And, let’s face it, while it is always
wonderful to see everyone at holiday parties, the usual party fare can get a
bit tiresome. If you have seen one cheese log, you've seen them all, right? So why
not try something a bit different this year? Perhaps an after-dinner party with desserts
and warm drinks with everyone gathering around a fireplace?
Now what to serve?
Normally, we would start the evening with
cocktails; a favorite being gin and tonic. So in an “Ah-Ha” moment, we decided
on “Gin Toddies” a sophisticated spin on the seasonal Hot Toddy to go along
with artisanal cheeses and some homemade pizzelles, torrones and amaretti.
Hot Gin Toddy:
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ cup boiling water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 ½ oz. favorite brand of gin
Put a teaspoon of sugar in a heat proof glass or mug and add
boiling water. Stir briefly to dissolve sugar and then add gin and lemon juice.
Stir to combine and garnish drinks with your choice of cinnamon sticks, cloves,
cardamom pods, star anise, or lemon slices.
Mix, drink, repeat! Happy Holidays!!