Citrus sage ginger toddy

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Going into a new year, my only personal plans are to keep up momentum with a few things I’m already working on: buying mostly necessities, decluttering my spaces, taking time to rest, and finding humor in life wherever possible. The fact that I have the time/energy/funds to even consider this is a celebration in itself–everything is easier to navigate when I can decompress, be myself, and clear out all the “stuff” buzzing around in my space and head. I’m cheers-ing myself with this beautifully flavored citrus sage ginger toddy and invite us all to have a round as 2020 (finally) comes to a close.

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hot toddy simple syrup
hot toddy simple syrup and drink

Buying mostly necessities translates into improvisational cooking and stretching out the use of each item. There is a subtle magic when I approach situations by asking how I can work with what I already have. Citrus peels skip the compost bin and become delicate sparkling garnishes. Herbs that are starting to go dry bring depth to a basic simple syrup in a repurposed bottle. Random bits of hardware and some leftover paint transform into candle holders. There’s no need for expensive non-alcoholic spirits when I can borrow a single ingredient from my baking shelf to make a booze-free treat! It feels so good to log off and do something with the hands, whether it’s a DIY decor project or making dinner with a loved one while chatting over drinks. 

This bright bourbon hot toddy style beverage is infused with sage ginger simple syrup and a splash of lemon juice. If using orange juice instead, I recommend reducing it by half over medium heat for a more complex flavor. While delightfully comforting served hot, this drink is crispy cold and refreshing on the rocks and/or with soda water. 

I encourage you to experiment with your simple syrup flavorings. Maybe lemon-rosemary, lavender-thyme, or cinnamon for a more classic toddy feel. I know times are tough and you might miss your pals–why not put a twist on a tip from Kaitlyn’s latest piece and host a virtual simple syrup and/or cocktail party? I’m still dying to try Hawnuh’s show stopping Nocino + oat milk winter cocktail. 

What hidden treasures have you found at home? Let us know! #closedloopcooking

Citrus sage ginger toddy   by

This bright bourbon hot toddy style beverage is infused with sage ginger simple syrup and a splash of lemon juice. While delightfully comforting served hot, this drink is crispy cold and refreshing on the rocks and/or with soda water.

makes: 1 serving | prep time: 30 min | cook time: 5 min | total time: 35 min

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hot toddy drinks

Ingredients

  • 4 oz water
  • 1 ½ oz bourbon*
  • ¾ oz lemon or orange juice
  • ½ oz sage ginger simple syrup (see below)
  • candied or plain citrus rinds to garnish

Sage ginger simple syrup

  • 10 bruised sage leaves, stems included
  • 2” sliced ginger (leave unpeeled if organic)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • Spent lemon halves from juicing (optional)

To-Do's

  1. To make simple syrup, bring water to a boil in small saucepan, then add sugar and dissolve. Add sage and ginger, simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and add lemon halves leftover from juicing. Allow to cool and let flavors infuse for 30-60 minutes. Pour through a fine mesh strainer and funnel into a clean bottle with a lid. It lasts around 3 months refrigerated.
  2. To make the toddy–boil water, then combine with bourbon, lemon or orange juice and sage ginger simple syrup. 
  3. Garnish with citrus twist or peel and serve hot!**

Notes

*for a non-alcoholic version, omit bourbon and add 2 extra tbs hot water and 1-2 tsp non-alcoholic vanilla extract, depending on preference.
**For a cold drink, serve on the rocks and/or with soda water.

Rated [awcr_rating type="averageRating"]/5 based on 4 reviews

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Comments

4 thoughts on “Citrus sage ginger toddy”

    • Hi Dianne, try subbing out the simple syrup for 1-2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup if you can do natural sweeteners instead. Alternatively, boil your sage and ginger and let steep for 4-5 minutes. Add your lemon or orange juice a little bit at a time (to your preferred tartness) and mix in with your bourbon. Let us know if you try it out!

      Reply

  2. This cocktail is delicious! It felt great on the throat too. I love standard hot toddies; I would not have thought of ginger with sage. This is fragrant with standout flavors. I look forward to making more.

    Reply

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