MULLING SPICES

Mulling spice mix is a perfect gift during the holidays and very easy to make with children. I make them in November and always have a stash of them on hand so I can bring them as hostess gifts paired with a bottle of  beaujolais, a handmade mug, or used as a place setting for a dinner party.

I use beautiful spices that are unexpected and less common such as cardamon pods, whole star anise, whole nutmeg seeds and dried orange slices. I also add fragrant whole cloves and cinnamon sticks.

Mix all of the smaller ingredients in a large bowl and stir well. Divide the ingredients into small muslin bags and then add the larger pieces such s dried orange. Take a decorative piece of thin string or ribbon and tie the top shut.

You can include a handwritten card with instructions for brewing. Such as “Brew sachet with a bottle of fruity red wine or apple cider. Simmer over medium heat and serve when bubbling and fragrant.”