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Festive Seasonal Spice Simmer

This simmering spice mixture involves combining orange zest, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and other aromatic ingredients in water over gentle heat. As it cooks, the mixture releases a fragrant, flavorful aroma with a warm, slightly spiced appearance, creating a cozy ambiance. The process transforms simple ingredients into a fragrant, aromatic liquid that infuses the home with holiday scents.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Holiday
Calories: 50
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups water preferably filtered
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest freshly grated or peeled thinly
  • 3 cinnamon sticks cinnamon sticks
  • 4 cloves whole cloves
  • 1 star anise star anise optional for extra aroma
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Ladle

Method
 

  1. Add water to a saucepan and place it over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the orange zest and gently bring the mixture to a simmer, just below boiling point.
  3. Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise, then gently stir to distribute the spices evenly.
  4. Allow the mixture to simmer softly for about 15-20 minutes, letting the aromas meld and intensify as the liquid becomes fragrant and slightly infused with spice.
  5. Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the honey or maple syrup for a balancing sweetness.
  6. Strain out the spices and zest using a fine sieve to leave a clear, aromatic liquid.
  7. Pour the hot, fragrant liquid into mugs or small serving bowls and enjoy immediately to savor the warm, spiced aroma.