Chai-Spiced Hot Toddy

A warming cocktail that combines aromatic Indian chai spices with dark rum and honey. This sophisticated hot toddy features cardamom, coriander, cinnamon, and fresh ginger, perfect for cold evenings.

6 servings
31 min

Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons cardamom pods
  • 2 teaspoons whole coriander seeds
  • ¼ teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 11 pieces cinnamon sticks
  • 1 piece ginger
  • 2 medium oranges
  • 6 tablespoons honey
  • 3 tablespoons black tea
  • 9 ounces dark rum

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Toast cardamom, coriander, peppercorns, and 5 cinnamon sticks in a large pot over medium-high heat until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add ginger and 8 cups water.

    1 min

  2. 2.

    Using a peeler, peel orange zest into long strips about 3" each. Reserve 6 pieces for garnish, then add remaining zest to pot.

    5 min

  3. 3.

    Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in honey and tea. Let steep 5 minutes.

    20 min

  4. 4.

    Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or pot. Divide among mugs and top off with rum. Garnish with reserved orange peels and cinnamon sticks.

    5 min

  5. 5.

    Tea mixture, without rum, can be made 1 week ahead; cover and chill.