Cardinal Punch 🍹✨

Imagine a refreshing, invigorating drink that combines the robustness of black tea with the zest of citrus and the tart sweetness of cranberry juice, all subtly spiced to perfection. This is Cardinal Punch, a delightful beverage that came from an old Farm Journal, promising to add a zippy twist to any gathering. 🍋🍒

Overview

Cardinal Punch is a vibrant and lively punch that will surely become a favorite at your parties and family gatherings. This recipe is easy to prepare, taking only 15 minutes in total, with 10 minutes dedicated to preparation and just 5 minutes for cooking. The punch is an ideal choice for those who want a quick, yet flavorful beverage option.

Categories and Keywords

Recipe Category: Punch Beverage
Keywords: Beverages, Fruit, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Spicy, < 15 Mins, Refrigerator, Easy

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 116.2 kcal
Fat Content: 0.1 g
Saturated Fat Content: 0 g
Cholesterol Content: 0 mg
Sodium Content: 3.9 mg
Carbohydrate Content: 29.8 g
Fiber Content: 0.1 g
Sugar Content: 27.7 g
Protein Content: 0.2 g

Servings and Yield

Recipe Servings: 8

Ingredients

Here is a list of ingredients required to make Cardinal Punch, along with their quantities:

Boiling water: 2 1/2 cups
Black tea: 2 tea bags
Ground allspice: 1/4 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg: 1/8 teaspoon
Sugar: 3/4 cup
Cranberry juice cocktail: 1 cup
Lemon juice: 1/2 cup
Water: 1/3 cup

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Cardinal Punch:

Brew the Tea:
- Begin by pouring the rapidly boiling water over the black tea bags. Let it steep to release the rich flavors of the tea.
Add the Spices:
- While the tea is steeping, add the ground allspice, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Cover the mixture and allow it to steep for 5-7 minutes. This step infuses the tea with a warm, spicy aroma that forms the backbone of the punch’s flavor.
Strain and Sweeten:
- After steeping, strain the tea to remove the tea bags and any loose spices. Stir in the sugar until it is fully dissolved, giving the tea a subtle sweetness that balances the tart and spicy notes.
Add the Juices:
- Pour in the cranberry juice cocktail and the lemon juice. These juices add a vibrant red color and a zesty, tangy flavor that makes the punch lively and refreshing.
Dilute and Chill:
- Add the cold water to the mixture. This step dilutes the punch to the perfect consistency. Chill the punch in the refrigerator until it is cold and ready to serve.
Serve:
- Serve the chilled Cardinal Punch in glasses with a thin slice of lemon as a garnish. This final touch adds a burst of citrus aroma and a sophisticated look to your beverage. 🍹🍋

Timing Overview

Preparation Time	Cook Time	Total Time
10 minutes	5 minutes	15 minutes

Tips and Variations

Spice Adjustments:
- Feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. If you prefer a spicier punch, you can increase the amount of allspice, cinnamon, or nutmeg.
Sugar Substitutes:
- For a healthier option, you can substitute sugar with honey or a sugar alternative like stevia. Adjust the amount to taste, as different sweeteners have varying levels of sweetness.
Herbal Twist:
- If you want to experiment, try adding a few fresh herbs like mint or basil to the tea while it steeps. This can add an interesting herbal note to the punch.
Fruit Garnish:
- Besides lemon slices, you can also garnish the punch with fresh cranberries, orange slices, or even a sprig of rosemary for an extra touch of elegance and flavor.
Ice Cubes:
- To keep the punch cold without diluting it, you can make ice cubes from the punch itself. Simply freeze a portion of the punch in ice cube trays and add them to the glasses before serving.

Health Benefits

Cardinal Punch not only tastes great but also comes with some health benefits:

Hydration:
- This punch is a delicious way to stay hydrated, especially during warm weather or after physical activity.
Antioxidants:
- Black tea and cranberry juice are rich in antioxidants, which can help combat free radicals in the body and support overall health.
Vitamin C:
- The lemon juice in the punch provides a good dose of Vitamin C, essential for a healthy immune system and skin health.
Low in Fat:
- With minimal fat content, this punch is a healthy choice for those watching their fat intake.

Historical Background

The origins of this punch can be traced back to an old Farm Journal, a publication known for its practical and wholesome recipes. The name “Cardinal Punch” likely comes from the vibrant red color of the drink, reminiscent of a cardinal bird’s plumage. This drink has been a favorite in many households, cherished for its easy preparation and delightful taste that appeals to both children and adults.

Serving Suggestions

Cardinal Punch is incredibly versatile and can be served on various occasions:

Family Gatherings:
- Serve it during family reunions or casual get-togethers for a refreshing drink that everyone will enjoy.
Holiday Parties:
- This punch is perfect for holiday celebrations, especially Christmas and Thanksgiving, thanks to its festive color and warming spices.
Picnics and BBQs:
- Take a pitcher of this punch to outdoor picnics or barbecues. It pairs wonderfully with grilled foods and light snacks.
Afternoon Refreshment:
- Enjoy a glass of Cardinal Punch as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Its invigorating flavors make it a great alternative to caffeinated drinks.

Final Thoughts

Cardinal Punch is more than just a beverage; it’s an experience of flavors that dance on your palate, leaving you refreshed and satisfied. Its easy preparation and the delightful combination of tea, spices, and juices make it a must-try for anyone who loves a good punch. The next time you have guests over or simply want to enjoy a refreshing drink, whip up a batch of Cardinal Punch and watch it become an instant hit. Cheers! 🍹✨

Enjoy this beautiful blend of flavors and share the joy of Cardinal Punch with your friends and family. It’s a punch that truly has zip!