Wassail,Wassail

This is the time for a hearty wassail punch. It's an ancient British  custom that's  been around for centuries and influenced holiday punches around the world. What is it exactly and why is it so important to the Yuletide tradition?

This is  was the topic of an article in the New York Times Dining section today. The piece, written by Rosie Schaap tells of her Anglophile's addiction to this holiday punch. It's basically a fruit drink ,made with both hard an d soft cider along with Madeira for sweetness and ale for kick. Spices are added as they were hundreds of years ago.There are also spices such as cloves and allspice for bite. Some add orange or lemon peels for a refreshing citrussy taste and smell.

Wassail is a relatively easy mix.to have fun with.All you need is a punch bowl and some creativity.It is nice to have the alcoholic version however you can also make a tee totaler's one using apple juice and soft or non alcoholic cider. Wassail calls for whole sliced apples too . You can use any kind really however the honey crisp are the best Some also call for pineapple however that's your decision as is the decision  for eggs added too. Some other punches, usually cream based do call for this last t give it body however it can birder into egg nog territory.

Wassail is a fun tradition . Try it however you want , whether traditional or with twists. It's a fun way to bring in the holidays.