Mulling Spices

Wassail (was’l) n. [ME waes haelil, litl, be thou well] 1. An expression of good wishes on a festive occasion, esp. during the winter holiday season. 2. The hot, spiced beverage used for a wassail.

Treat family and friends to the warmth, aroma, and good cheer of mulled cider, cranberry juice, or other fruit beverage during the holidays and throughout the winter season. India Tree mulling spices are an aromatic mix of only the finest allspice, cloves, orange peel, and cinnamon. Because these spices are so pungent, they can be used to flavor more than one batch. The 1-ounce package contains enough for 1 gallon or 16 eight-ounce servings. The 3.5-ounce package contains enough for 64 eight-ounce servings.

Pour a gallon of beverage into a large saucepan or kettle. Gather up 1 oz of mulling spices and one-fourth of a crushed cinnamon stick in a square of cheesecloth and secure with string. Add to the beverage. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the spices. Pour the mulled beverage into heated mugs. Garnish with an orange slice. Stir with a cinnamon stick. Enjoy!

Other uses for India Tree Mulling Spices include flavoring apple sauce or pear butter; adding to orange juice to create a basting sauce for ham; simmering in cider or hot water on the back of the stove, sending a warm, spicy aroma throughout the house.