The first snowfall of the year is usually magical. However, as the first fat snowflakes of this year fall to the ground I am watching from the couch accompanied by a box of tissues, a sore throat, cold, and a Hot Toddy. Well…a virgin Hot Toddy. It is 10:00AM after all. My only consolation is that it is far too wet for anything to stick…so maybe by the time the first REAL snowfall comes around I’ll be feeling better and will be able to enjoy it. I’m sure it will inspire a blog of some sort.  In the mean time…I thought I may as well do a write up on today’s beverage of choice: The Hot Toddy. You can find all varieties of recipes for these drinks but I have assembled my favorite components to share with you today. Here is what I use and why it is included in this famous cold/flu fighting drink.

Ginger: Where to begin? This is a wonder ingredient soothing whatever cold or flu symptoms ail you. It has natural antioxidants and antibiotics, eases congestion, sooths sore throats, is widely used for anti-nausea properties, fights both chills and fever. It is practically magic.

Honey: Also practically magic, honey has antibacterial properties and is used to cure tummy troubles, sooth sore throats and coughs.

Lemon juice: Is full of Vitamin C which is a natural antihistamine, breaking up phlegm and easing coughs.

Green Tea: famous for large doses of antioxidants.

Cinnamon: Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties

Bourbon: It’ll help clear your sinuses and help you sleep! 🙂

Place in the bottom of a large mug: several slices of fresh ginger, 2 teaspoons raw honey, 1 Tbsp lemon juice (or 1-2 slices lemon), 1/2 cinnamon stick, and tea bag. I didn’t have green tea on hand this time so I used decaf Earl Grey. Add 1 1/2 oz bourbon (if using) and fill the mug the rest of the way with boiling water. Let steep for 5 minutes.

I sincerely hope you won’t have need of this recipe but if you do find yourself the victim of a cold, you can use The Hot Toddy to fight back. And now…Lilly and I are both off to take naps!