wassail

The word “wassail” comes from an Old English toast meaning “Be in good health.” For a non-alcoholic version of this Epicurious recipe, replace Calvados with more apple cider.
Wassail

2 (3-inch) cinnamon sticks plus 8 for garnish
10 whole allspice
8 whole cloves
1 qt cranberry juice cocktail
1 qt apple cider
2 tablespoons sugar
1 Granny Smith apple
1 cup Calvados or apple liqueur
Special equipment: a 6- by 4-inch piece of cheesecloth; kitchen string

Wrap 2 cinnamon sticks, allspice, and cloves in cheesecloth and tie with string. Simmer cranberry juice, cider, sugar, and spice bag in a 5-quart heavy pot, uncovered, skimming froth occasionally, 10 minutes.
Halve apple and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Add apple slices and Calvados to cider mixture and simmer 2 minutes (slices will remain crisp). Serve hot and garnish with cinnamon sticks.

Serves 8.
tumbler
 



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