A warm Irish whiskey, or hot toddy, is a hot drink made with a mixture of whiskey, honey or sugar, spices and water.
In a way, you could say that it is the Irish version of the grog.
After a day exploring the green plains of Ireland, sitting in front of a peat fire in a pub, it’s bliss!
Here is a version with maple syrup to give it a little Quebec touch.
A tasty combination of spices
Several spices are used in a hot toddy to add a nice complexity of flavors.
You can use, in their whole form and not ground, cinnamon stick, star anise and cloves.
And it is well known that these spices go very well together. As a matter of fact, a similar blend is used to make mulled wine.
Can we use another alcohol than whisky?
If you don’t have whiskey, you can use brandy, cognac or rum instead.
And many occasions are ideal to enjoy this cocktail:
- to drink something else than the classic anti-flu grog if you are sick;
- to drink by the fire at the chalet or after a day of skiing to change from the mulled wine;
- it is also a good option to end the evening.
It is such a comforting drink, a real treat.
Sláinte!
Irish hot toddy with maple whiskey
A warm and comforting Irish cocktail with a touch of maple!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise
- 2 teaspoons (10 mL) maple syrup
- 1 ounce of whiskey
- 1 lemon wedge or slice with 3-4 cloves
- ¾ cup boiling water
Instructions
- Using a kettle, bring the water to a boil.
- Meanwhile, pour whiskey, maple syrup and lemon juice into a mug or heavy glass. Stir well.
- Add cinnamon, star anise and lemon wedge with cloves.
- Pour the boiling water into the glass.
- Stir and serve immediately.
Notes
* Brandy, cognac and rum can also be used