Coal Region Boilo

There's a drink in Pennsylvania's coal region called Boilo.

It's very similar to a super delicious hot toddy.

Served warm, this drink is made out of fruit, spices, honey, and moonshine or whiskey.

My husband grew up the coal region and has been talking about Boilo since I've known him.

This holiday, I decided to attempt at making his hometown holiday classic.

After searching for recipes, I discovered numerous versions of Boilo.

Meaning, there are many ways to skin this cat.

So....my first batch had too much whiskey.

The second was too citrus-y...

and after a few tweaking...the third was just right!

Whew - Coal region nectar!

After several attempts and tastings, I was F-L-A-T on the couch.

To avoid multiple tries and making this perfect the first time, here's the recipe that worked best.

Coal Region Boilo

4 cups water

1 cup clover honey

3 oranges

1 lemons

3 cinnamon stick

2 tsp whole cloves

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp caraway seeds

1 tsp anise seeds

12 oz moonshine or whiskey (Jim Beam)

Juice oranges and lemons (keep the rind).  In a medium pot, add water, honey, orange & lemon juice, orange & lemon rinds, all the spices.  Simmer until rind softens.  Strain pulp.  Add whiskey.  Pour into jars and add one cinnamon stick (optional).  Serve warm.  Store in the refrigerator.

Enjoy!