Spiced Winter Drinks

Although winter is winding down, it still gets chilly at night and what better way to heat up than with a delicious, spiced drink? Here are a couple recipes to warm your belly and bring a smile to your face.

Spiced Apple Cider

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon whole allspice
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 large orange, quartered, peel still on
• 1/2 gallon apple cider
• 1/2 cup spiced rum (optional)

Directions

1. Place filter in coffee basket, and fill all spices plus orange wedges. Pour apple cider into coffee pot where the water usually goes. Brew, add rum if desired, and serve hot.

 

Spiced Hot Chocolate

Ingredients

• 6 cups milk of your choice (use skim to save on calories)
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions

In a medium saucepan warm the milk and spices over low heat, being sure to stir often. One small bubbles start to form, add the cocoa powder gradually. Whisk until all clumps are broken up. When the mixture is smooth, whisk in the honey and salt. Pour into four mugs and enjoy.

Superbowl Recipes

This Sunday, the Giants and Patriots will face off in Superbowl XLVI. Whether you are having a small viewing party with friends, or a giant gathering involving the whole neighborhood, these recipes will please hungry, football loving crowds of all sizes.

Smoky Guacamole

• 3 avocados - peeled, pitted, and mashed
• Juice from 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 cup diced red onion
• 3 tablespoons cilantro
• 1 teaspoon smoked garlic
• 1 pinch smoked chili powder

 In a medium bowl, mash together the avocados, lime juice, and salt. Mix in onion, cilantro and garlic. Stir in cayenne pepper. Refrigerate or serve immediately with pita chips, chopped veggies or tortilla chips.

Spiced Almonds

• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground chipotle chili
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 4 cups raw, unsalted almonds

In large mixing bowl, stir together first 5 ingredients then add almonds. Toss lightly to coat. Arrange almonds in a single layer on a lightly greased cookie sheet.
Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes, stirring after 10. Let cool before serving, though they are delicious slightly warm as well.

Sour Cream and Chive Dip

• 1 container sour cream
• 6 tablespoons dried chive rings
• 3 teaspoons lemon juice
• Sea salt to taste

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix. Serve chilled with potato chips, pretzles or cut up vegetables.

We hope everyone enjoys the game...plus the great food and drink that go along with it!