Try a "Hot Toddy".
Back in the day I used to work for a Scotsman and if I ever dared wander into the office with a head cold his instant reaction would be "go make yourself a hot toddy". (When you read that, make sure you're using your best "Go Go Mobile" Scottish accent.)
What the hell is a hot toddy?
Basically it's hot water, lemon, honey and whisky. Or in his case, Scotch whisky. He would also suggest I throw in an asprin for good measure.
I tried to look into its origins and there are two possibilities. (1) it could have come from India where the word "toddy" relates to a fermented drink made of sap of palm trees which, when distilled, turns into something a bit like brandy; or (2) it could have come from Scotland where it seems that "toddy" may have been street talk for whiskey.
Personally, I'm going to go with the Scottish theory given it was a Scotsman who introduced me to this remedy.
I'm not sure it ever cured one of my colds, but it does provide some comfort.
Since then I have discovered some variations of the recipe. Here's one you might like to try:
- Add a squeeze of lemon to boiling water
- Add two cloves
- A teaspoon of honey
- Cinnamon stick
- Shot of whisky
So as spring does its best to arrive, let's get rid of those annoying wintery sniffles once and for all. Hot cocktails anyone?
Ever had a "hot toddy"?
What are your thoughts on its origins?
Got any good hot toddy recipes?
While I'm not a whiskey person, I am aware of the wonders warm lemon and a spot of honey can do when you're not feeling your best - a good go-to for winter months!
ReplyDeletei really need to keep this remedy handy as i always catch cold easily, is that okay if i dont add whiskey as i dont drink. i will wait for the reply thanks.
ReplyDeleteA hot toddy was the secret recipe for dealing with agonising period pain in my family, handed down from my grandmother to my mother and then me. Our version though is a cap full of whisky, rum, even gin (whatever you have in the house), a teaspoon of sugar and enough hot water to dissolve it. Worked a treat - I could be doubled up in bed with cramps and half an hour later would be right as rain!
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