Danish Wassail

Mmmm.. Danish Wassail.  My mom would make this during the holidays and the house would smell absolutely wonderful.  Her New Year's Day buffet would always offer this wassail along with a delicious cold beverage.  This citrusy hot drink will warm up the coldest days.  

There are lots of different versions of wassail.  This version is my favorite.  It has four spices which many other don't & the combination is not only aromatic, but also delicious.  I used fresh ginger since it was what I had on hand.  Usually I use crystallized ginger.

Danish Wassail

         4 c water                                         juice of 6 lemons OR 6 oz (3/4 c) frozen lemonade
         2 c sugar                                               concentrate
         3 sticks cinnamon                          juice of 10 oranges OR 1-12 oz can frozen orange                           12 whole cloves                                      juice concentrate
         6 allspice berries                            8 c apple cider
        1 piece ginger (crystallized or         lemon slices (opt)
               small fresh peeled piece)

In large stock pan, bring water & sugar to a boil.  Tie spices in cheese cloth, put in sugar water & simmer for 1 hour.  Remove spice bag.  Add juices & garnish with lemon slices.  Serve hot.

Base an be kept in refrigerator & juices added as needed.   
Variation:  Cranberry juice or apricot nectar can be used instead of cider.