Why You Need to Add Chamomile Tea to Your Hot Toddy

Nothing will keep you warm like this twist on an old favorite.

By Thrillist

Updated on 11/29/2021 at 11:40 AM

Photo by Cole Saladino for Thrillist. Photo Assistant: Mitchell Mylius. Food Stylist: Micah Morton with Big Leo. Food Stylist Assistant: Terrance Harvey.

A simple mix of hot water, sweetener, spice, and spirit (typically whiskey), the Hot Toddy is a classic folk remedy for the common cold. It also happens to be a delicious and endlessly adaptable warming cocktail. There are almost as many versions of the Hot Toddy as there are spirits being distilled.

Speaking of which, we asked Shae Minnillo, a bartender at Manolito in New Orleans, for a fresh take on the cocktail. "The versatile Toddy is seen here exhibiting some of the more soothing qualities with the help of chamomile. Honey will smooth some edges and accompany the Irish whiskey, while the dashes of bitters and absinthe will round out spice notes and give it a touch of brightness," Minnillo says of his creation.

Hot Toddy

FLAVOR PROFILE
Sweet, Dry

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 ounces Whiskey
  • ½ ounce Lemon Juice
  • 1 tablespoon Honey
  • 1 dash Angostura Bitters
  • 1 dash Absinthe or Pastis
  • 4 ounces Chamomile Tea

INSTRUCTIONS

Step one

Add whiskey, honey, lemon juice, and dashes to a mug and stir to combine.

Step two

Top with chamomile tea, and garnish with lemon peel and cinnamon stick.

Recipe provided by Shae Minnillo