The theme for this past weekend's TV segment on Global Calgary was a Chai Spiced Party Punch. Originating from India, Punch derived its name from the Hindi word "panch" meaning five. Traditionally this drink was made up of sugar, water, lemon, spices and other fruit juices. When it was subsequently transported to England and other western countries, it started taking on many other forms.
To stay true to this versatile and easy to make party drink, I wanted to create a recipe using five healthy and delicious ingredients, one of them obviously being spices!
Watch the video here to catch more of my personal tips on when to use whole versus ground spices and how to get more out of using your spices with one simple storing tip!
Chai is also traditionally Indian and means "tea" but in modern times we relate it to more of a spiced tea made up of warming and digestion enhancing spices. The below versions allow for both a caffeine free version and not.
Chai Spiced Party Punch
Serves 2-4
Ingredients:
2 cups of no added sugar Apple Juice
1 cup of no added sugar Pineapple Juice
5 Spice Sanctuary Coorg Cardamom Pods, slightly cracked open
6 Spice Sanctuary Cloves
1 Tbsp Unrefined organic Apple Cider Vinegar
1/4 Tsp Spice Sanctuary Ginger Powder
1/4 Tsp Spice Sanctuary Nutmeg Ground
1/2 Tsp Spice Sanctuary True Cinnamon
1/4 Tsp Spice Sanctuary Coorg Cardamom Ground Seeds
1 cup Coconut Water or brewed black tea
1-2 measures of Rum or Brandy (optional)
Lemon and Orange Wedges to garnish
How to Make:
1. Pour the apple and pineapple juices into a pan and add in the whole spices and a few twists of a good black pepper. Bring to a boil.
2. Next, add in the apple cider vinegar and remaining spices and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes to fully allow the spices to both infuse and impart into the juices.
How to Enjoy:
1. If serving cold, let the spiced juice cool completely before, straining into a punch bowl and then adding in some cold and naturally sweetened coconut water and (alcohol) adding the citrus slices to garnish. The longer you leave the spices in the juice, the better!
2. If serving hot, turn off the heat and add in a cup of brewed black tea, before straining, adding in the alcohol and transferring into a crock pot, adding the citrus slices and keeping it warm.
The name says party but really you can enjoy this anytime!
