Warm Drinks for the Holidays

Since it’s almost Christmas and at this time many people enjoy a delicious hot beverage such as hot chocolate, tea or cider, I will try to present you below some different and unique drinks in order to surprise your guests when celebrating together the winter holidays. So, here they are:

Sbiten. Originating from Russia, it is a traditional honey-based beverage consumed during the long winter months. In some recipes, honey and sbiten flavor (i.e. spices, juices) are boiled down separately and then combined to be boiled again, while in others all the ingredients are boiled at once. The drink can also be made alcoholic by substituting the water with red wine. It can be garnished with mint leaves or cinnamon sticks.

Mulled Beer. What about a hot glass of beer? Yes, it is not a typing mistake! By taking a quick look in the past (let’s say 100 years ago), you will see that the people used to enjoy the beer without any kind of refrigeration, and so can you. This sweet and creamy recipe will warm you up on any cold, winter night.

Eggnog. A drink usually available during the holidays, it is made from eggs, milk, cream and sugar (plus alcohol, if that's how you like it). Eggnog is a popular drink throughout the United States, Canada and Luxembourg and is usually associated with winter celebrations such as Christmas and New Year. Commercially, non-alcoholic eggnog is available around Christmas time and during the winter.

Apple Cider. You've just walked through the door. It's freezing outside and you would like something hot to drink. Forget hot chocolate or tea, there is something much better: a hot glass of apple cider. Nothing hits the spot quite like a steaming mug of apple cider on a cold winter day. Making this drink from scratch can be a great reward, and a delightful way to spend an afternoon.

Mead. Mead is an alcoholic beverage, made from honey and water via fermentation with yeast. Its alcoholic content may range from that of mild ale to that of a strong wine. It may be still, carbonated, or sparkling; it may be dry, semi-sweet, or sweet. Mead is often referred to as "honey wine". Depending on local traditions and specific recipes, it may be brewed with spices, fruits or grain mash. The holidays are a perfect time to enjoy this hot, ancient beverage.

If there are some other hot beverages that you enjoy to drink during the winter months, feel free to share them by leaving a comment to this post.