The Whisky Hot Toddy drink originated in Scotland and is traditionally made with Scotch whisky (but can also be made with Irish whiskey), hot water, sugar and lemon juice. Hot Toddy drinks have gained a reputation as an effective way of obtaining relief from the common cold. Some people swear by their healing effects, while others say they don't really help. This recipe adapts the ingredients in a traditional Whisky Hot Toddy slightly, by replacing sugar with honey, and using hot green tea instead of plain water.
Scotch Whisky Hot Toddy Recipe
(1 measure = 25 ml)
Ingredients
- 2 measures Scotch whisky
- 1 teaspoon honey
- ½ measure freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 250 ml hot water
- 1 green tea bag
Directions
- Add the honey and lemon juice to a mug and warm in the microwave for 30 seconds, or until the honey becomes very runny.
- Pour the hot water into the mug and add the green tea bag. Leave the bag to infuse for 2 minutes, before gently squeezing against the side of the mug with a teaspoon and removing.
- Add the Scotch whisky to the honey, lemon and green tea, and stir well.
- Serve piping hot.
The Whisky Hot Toddy as a Cold Remedy
Does a Whisky Hot Toddy cure a cold? In short, the answer is no, a Hot Toddy will not make a cold go away any quicker, nor will any other cold remedy. But its ingredients can help ease the symptoms associated with colds and flu. The Vitamin C in lemon juice and the antioxidants in green tea help boost the immune system and fight infection, while honey helps soothe a sore throat.
Scotch whisky added to a Hot Toddy does not provide any nutritional value or health benefits. However, the alcohol does have a relaxing, calming effect, which can help to aid restful sleep when suffering from a cold. A long hot bath followed by a Whisky Hot Toddy before bed can do wonders to clear the head and ease nasal congestion.
Variations of the Whisky Hot Toddy Recipe
Hot Toddies can be made with spirits other than whisky, such as bourbon, brandy or dark rum, or even with a combination of spirits. The addition of spices such as ginger or cloves gives an extra zing, and serving the drink with a slice of lemon adds a fruity twist. A Hot Toddy can also be made without alcohol.
A Whisky Hot Toddy is a warming, comforting drink when feeling under the weather. But remember, don’t combine a Hot Toddy with other cold or flu medications, and don’t drink too many of them. The units of alcohol will soon add up, leading to dehydration and a potential hangover.
For more information about how to avoid a hangover, read Hangover Prevention Tips.
Sharon Kirby - Sharon is a freelance health writer and contributes to various print and online publications. Writing credits include Nursing Times, Good ...
