Pastor’s Wassail Recipe – A Traditional Holiday Drink
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Category: Beverages
Keywords: Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Free Of… (Dairy, Gluten), Winter, Christmas, Under 15 Minutes
Introduction
Looking for a delightful beverage to serve at your next holiday gathering? Pastor’s Wassail, a traditional drink with roots stretching back to the Civil War, is a simple yet flavorful concoction that will warm up any festive occasion. Despite my usual aversion to hot drinks, this one always hits the spot. With its sweet, zesty, and slightly spiced profile, it’s perfect for spreading holiday cheer. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday hosts!
The name “Wassail” comes from the old English term wass hael, which translates to “be whole” or “be well.” So, when you serve this drink, remember to toast to health and happiness—just as generations have done before!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar | 1 cup | Regular granulated sugar |
| Cinnamon Sticks | 4 sticks | For spice and aroma |
| Lemon Slices | 3 slices | Fresh, adds a citrusy tang |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed |
| Dry Sherry | 6 cups | Adds depth and complexity |
| Water | 1/2 cup | For boiling the syrup base |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 347.9 kcal |
| Fat Content | 0.2 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 0 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 0 mg |
| Sodium Content | 7.6 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 40.3 g |
| Fiber Content | 0.3 g |
| Sugar Content | 30.4 g |
| Protein Content | 0.8 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Syrup Base
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, the 4 cinnamon sticks, and the 3 lemon slices. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the syrup is aromatic. -
Strain the Syrup
After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and discard the cinnamon sticks and lemon slices. You now have a flavorful spiced syrup that will form the base of your wassail. -
Heat the Other Ingredients
In a separate pot, gently heat the remaining ingredients: 6 cups of dry sherry and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Keep the heat low—do not bring it to a boil. The goal is to warm the liquid, not cook it, to preserve the flavor and delicate properties of the sherry. -
Combine and Serve
Once the sherry and lemon juice are warm, slowly pour in the prepared syrup, stirring to combine. Continue heating the mixture until it is very warm, but again, do not boil it. Serve the wassail in mugs or heat-resistant glasses, ensuring it stays warm for your guests to enjoy.
Additional Tips
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Flavor Adjustments: If you like a more robust flavor, feel free to adjust the cinnamon sticks or lemon slices to suit your taste. Some versions of wassail also include a touch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth and depth.
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Alcohol-Free Version: For a non-alcoholic variation, simply omit the dry sherry and replace it with more water or fruit juice (like apple or cranberry juice) for a similar festive flavor.
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Serving Suggestions: Garnish your wassail with additional cinnamon sticks or a twist of lemon rind for a beautiful touch. Pair it with some gingerbread cookies or other holiday treats for the perfect holiday spread.
Conclusion
This easy-to-make Pastor’s Wassail brings a comforting warmth to any holiday gathering. It’s sweet, slightly tangy, and full of spice, making it a drink that’s sure to please a crowd. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, ringing in the New Year, or simply enjoying a cozy winter evening, this traditional wassail will help you toast to good health and happiness in the most delicious way possible.
