Wasabi Prime: cranberry

Holiday cheers to one and all! *clinking of virtual glasses* It's getting down to the wire for Christmas of 2009. No matter how you celebrate this time of year, I think it's fair to say, everyone's tired and in need of a long winter's nap. So give yourself the greatest gift: a spare moment of quiet and perhaps a warm, spicy drink to pass the time with a bit of reflection on the year that almost was.

Mulled cranberry spice drink? That's hot. - Photo by Wasabi Prime

I was trading emails with one of my bestie BFFs with the funny nickname, Ms. Angry Peanut, and she brought up a really good point. We have this picture in our mind of the holidays -- a cozy chair in front of the fireplace, holiday decor festooned about the room, a good book, and a warm cup of something tasty in hand to enjoy for the evening. But the picture is more like standing in long lines at the Post Office, white-knuckled rage while inching through a gridlocked mall parking lot, or just the general agonizing over gifts, cards, and all the extra stuff that ends up clogging up what this time of year should really be about: family, friends, and hopefully a satisfying food coma.

The Prime can't promise a Masterpiece Theatre-worthy setting to enjoy this toasty drink, but I hope you have the chance to take a moment of quiet and find a little peace for yourself this winter.

Wasabi Prime's Mulled Cranberry Spice Drink
(approx. 6 servings, unless you're real thirsty)

You will need: 1 medium-sized pot, cheesecloth and string, or a tea infuser ball
6 cups of cranberry-apple juice (can use plain cranberry and add sugar to sweeten)
Freshly squeezed juice of 1 orange, plus the peel
2 star anise
2 whole cinnamon sticks
4 whole cloves
1 tsp ground nutmeg and/or allspice
* Optional: 2 cups of red wine of your choice, with a splash of grand marnier or other orange liqueur

Wrap whole spices in cheesecloth and tie a string around the top to make a little bag, or place spices in tea infuser ball. Place all ingredients in a medium sized pot and simmer on medium-low heat for 20 minutes. Do not allow to bring to a boil. Remove spices and orange peel, and pour into glasses to serve. Drink in front of a roaring fireplace or at least a television playing the DVD of a roaring fireplace.

Holiday wishes of good cheer, peace on earth, and safe travels to everyone!