Scottish Cocktail (Hot Toddy)

We all know the Scots like a dram or two. We’re well known for our social drinking culture. But did you know that our whisky cocktail, the Hot Toddy is medicinal? Seriously.

Winter is coming and if you are already dreading your first cold of the season. never fear. The Hot Toddy is here. This is a classic Scottish drink made with whisky, hot water, honey and lemon. The exact origins of the drink are unclear but rumour has it that during the 18th century, pubs around Edinburgh served Scotch with hot water to beat off the chilly Scottish weather. The water used was drawn from Tod’s Well.

This drink is best prepared in the evening and drunk before bed. With any luck it will help you drift off into a deep slumber. Honey contains anti bacterial properties which can help sooth a sore throat, the lemon gives you a does of vitamin C, the water tops up your hydration levels and the whisky? Well, it just tastes damn good.

The Hot Toddy of course should not replace a doctors prescription. It is by no means a cure for the common cold, but it could help sooth the symptoms.

It’s not just for drinking when you are feeling under the weather, it can be the perfect night cap on cold wintery evening or why not add a cinnamon stick to create a calming cocktail to sip while you cosy up with a good book. It really is Scotland’s very own hug in a mug.

Below you’ll find the few ingredients you need to make a Hot Toddy.

Hot Toddy Ingredients

50ml of Whisky

Boiling Water

2tsp of Honey

2tsp of lemon juice

Lemon slice

Method

Boil the kettle and add 50ml of whisky into a mug. Top up with boiling water. Add in the honey, lemon juice and lemon slice then stir. Leave to cool for 30 seconds or so then enjoy the soothing warmth from the inside out.

Looking for more drinks from around the world? Check out Serial Jet Setter’s Food and Drink page.