The past two weeks have been rough. I’m sick with a brutal virus that just won’t leave me alone. I’ve dealt with an assortment of symptoms: sore throat, lethargy, low-grade fever, mild congestion. And it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere! I feel better than I did when it first hit me but I am definitely not myself.
My savior during this particular illness has been hot toddies. For the record, I’m not typically a drinker. I just don’t care for alcohol these days; many times it either makes me tired or gives me a headache. But when I have a bad cold this drink really helps distract from my misery. The honey and lemon do wonders for my throat. The alcohol adds a nice mellow buzz on top of my wooziness, allowing me to stop feeling pathetic and relax for a bit. Is it actually helping me get better? I doubt it, but I don’t think it hurts.
Hot Toddy
Ingredients
- 1 cup black tea (I prefer PG Tips)
- 1 shot brandy or rum
- honey to taste
- lemon juice to taste
Instructions
- Brew tea.
- Add other ingredients.
- Stir to combine.
- Relax.
Please read my full post for additional recipe notes, tips, and serving suggestions!
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The Chef At Solago says
I just wanted to FINALLY get over to your site. I got to tell you this is wonderful! Simple, yet very refined. THere is an air of substance here. I am truly glad you are out there inspiring thousands of people!
THe Chef.
Savory Simple says
Thank you very much!
David says
Sorry to hear that one of my favorite food bloggers is not feeling well, but I enjoyed the post. Thank God for Hot Toddies (TGHT)! They’re probably better for you then Nyquil. Get plenty of rest and feel better soon.
Savory Simple says
Thanks. I need to get better really quickly, I’ve got a packed schedule coming up!
Kay aka Babygirl says
I remember my grandmother telling me my great grandmom loved this drink. Since I don’t drink, I will definitely pass this along to my mom and see if she wants to try it. great post.
Savory Simple says
Like I said, I rarely drink. It’s funny that I drink at the one time I probably really shouldn’t. Oh well! I hope she likes it!
Karla says
Sorry to hear you’re not feeling well but I’m pretty sure Hot Toddies make everything better. The last time I had one of these was Thanksgiving, to help digest. I’m a fan!
Savory Simple says
They must be working, I’m starting to feel better!
gretchen hatz says
i have been under the weather myself, and have always thought a little alcohol is good to help kill germs. i’m gonna try this out tonight!
Savory Simple says
I hope it helps and you feel better soon!
ceciliag says
Oh my Dad used to make us hot toddies! This is great. A lovely page, thank you c
J'adore? Hardcore! says
You may not be a avid drinker, but I am.. and I cannot WAIT for the next time I’m sick!
xo, love it!
Savory Simple says
Ha! Well, to good health and boozy colds!
driedredchillies says
This is by far the most relaxing drink i have come across today. Thanks..
Primal in a Pinch says
This sounds like heaven! I think I’d use a caffeine-free tea before bed, though. Have you tried this with any other teas, like herbal or green?
PS. Speaking of tea, I just started brewing kombucha at home yesterday! I’m updating the blog (PrimalinaPinch.com) as I go.
Savory Simple says
I’ve tried it with other teas but black tea is really best. Maybe I just prefer it that way because when I was little my mother always made me black tea with honey and lemon when I was sick (minus the booze). So black tea has that extra bit of comfort flavor built in for me. I bet chamomile would be a good alternative in the evening.
I’m intrigued by home-brewed kombucha! I look forward to reading about it!
cleaningmyplate says
My great-grandmother swore by hot toddies for whatever ailed her. :) I hope you feel better soon (or are feeling better by now)!
Savory Simple says
I am feeling better, thank you! I think the hot toddies definitely aided in my recovery.
Graham Moody says
Savor, very nice recipes. I wish I had time to try them all. Corn chowder sounds great. My corn garden is producing now, so it’s corn for all!
Savory Simple says
Thank you! The corn chowder is one of my recent favorites and I would imagine corn from the garden would make it really special!
MM says
Thanks for sharing this recipe! I can’t wait to try it.
Simple Speedy Snacks says
In Ireland…. a hot toddy is just whiskey, cloves, sugar, lemon and hot water! It is amazing for getting rid of colds..helping you sleep and warming up your bones!!!
Nice to see a different type of hot toddy!
D
Hayley @ The Domestic Rebel says
Never had a Hot Toddy before but this looks awesome! So perfect for sick days or well, any day! :)
Carla H. says
I have always wanted a good hot toddy recipe! Thanks!