I was first introduced to this Irish (although some argue Scottish) beverage by a friend of mine a couple years ago.

I’ve since discovered that the Hot Toddy, traditionally made with water, whiskey, cloves, lemon, and honey, is an age-old medicinal drink that the Irish would consume during the cold and flu season.  Served as a hot beverage, it’s warming to a cold body, the alcohol is a natural cough suppressant, honey is soothing to a sore throat, and cinnamon, clove and citrus rind have antibacterial properties.  Genius!   And adding a tea bag, as in the recipe below, gives an antioxidant boost.

To make a cup for yourself:  Steep 1 tea bag in a cup of boiling water, along with a couple cloves, a cinnamon stick and a slice of lemon or orange, for 2-3 minutes.  Then add a shot of whiskey and sweeten to taste with honey.  Sip and relax.

Apple Cider Variation:  Steep the cloves, cinnamon, and citrus in hot apple cider instead of tea.  Add whiskey.