Colonial Recipes: Wassail

Back in Merry Ol' England--and hence in the Colonies that celebrated the holidays in English fashion like the mid-Atlantic--wassailing was an age-old tradition. It was a time for the poor to make the rounds in the wealthy neighborhoods and earn a few pence. They would concoct a batch of wassail and sell it door-to-door. Though oftentimes the wassail wasn't the tastiest thing to pass the lips, the wealthy bought it as a matter of course, as a way to give alms without offending the pride.

But who wants to share a not-so-tasty recipe? ;-) This version is more a mulled cider that will make your house smell delightful and will be a true toast to health and happiness in this blessed Yuletide season.

Ingredients:

• 1 gallon apple cider
• 1 large can pineapple juice (unsweetened)
• 3/4 cup tea

Place in a cheesecloth or mesh sack:

• 1 Tablespoon whole cloves
• 1 Tablespoon whole allspice
• 2 sticks cinnamon

Instructions: This is great cooked in a crock pot. Let it simmer very slowly for 4 to 6 hours. You can add water if it evaporates too much. Your home will smell wonderful, and this is a great way to set the tone for a holiday party!

Submitted by Roseanna White