Spices not only just excite your taste buds but are composed of an impressive list of phyto-nutrients, essential oils, antioxidants, minerals and vitamins that are essential for overall wellness. Spices have been integral part of our food since centuries, and today, even become more relevant for us. In some of the hottest spots on earth, spicy food is central to the culinary tradition. Well, spices are not just limited to spicy foods, you can make some really amazing drinks with these that are tasty and give a hint of crisp spiciness which I am sure all will love!
Read on to know the recipes for some of the spice infused drinks:
SPICED HOT CHOCOLATE
This is the perfect Christmas Eve treat for any child waiting for Santa’s arrival. You need 200ml full fat milk, 30 grams of finely grated dark chocolate, ¼ tea spoon of ground cinnamon, A pinch of grated nutmeg, 4 table spoons of drinking chocolate powder and Some squirty cream for the finishing touch.
Heat the milk in a pan until almost boiling. In a heatproof jug bowl mix the drinking chocolate, grated chocolate, cinnamon and nutmeg until combined. Pour the nearly boiled milk into the jug and whisk until thick and creamy. Pour into your best festive mug, squirt with cream and decorate with some silvers balls or maltesers.
SPICED INDIAN TEA
This is a great tea which is common in India, infused with spices and the crisp touch. You need 2 inches cinnamon stick or half teaspoon powder), half teaspoon fennel seeds, 1 pepper crown, 1 cardamom pod and 1 inch ginger.
Add these spices to black tea and let it boil for some time. Add milk to it and serve hot!
CINNAMON COFFEE
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Cup of hot, brewed coffee
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sugar or jaggery
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Cinnamon stick – 1
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whipped cream ( optional)
- cinnamon powder for garnish ( optional)
Place 1 stick of cinnamon in each of 4 coffee cups and pour in the hot coffee. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
EGG NOG
This simple recipe can be enjoyed by the whole family (or just the adults if you spike it with bourbon). You need 4 egg yolks, 2 cups of milk, 1 cup of cream, ½ cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, 2 whole cloves and a pinch of cinnamon (Adult option – 2 tablespoons of your favourite bourbon).
Using a whisk, mix the egg yolks and slowly add the sugar until light and fluffy. In a separate pan combine the cloves, cinnamon and milk until simmering but not boiling. Slowly add the milk mixture into the egg mixture whisking constantly. Then pour back into the pan and heat on a medium heat, stirring the mixture until it begins to thicken, be careful not to let it boil and curdle. Once suitably thickened, remove from the heat and stir in the cream. Strain the mixture to remove the cloves and let it cool. Once cooled, stir in the nutmeg and vanilla extract (add the bourbon now if you like).
Whether you have a relaxed family get together, a festive formal dinner or an impromptu night time tipple planned, these recipes will help you prepare for every occasion!