Wassail is an alcoholic mulled cider beverage, traditionally served during Yule. The word wassail comes from an old Norse blessing, ves heill, that means “be healthy.” Over time, what started as a blessing or greeting, perhaps accompanied by a cup of mead, evolved into the name of this cider beverage. There are many customs associated with wassail, including wassailing which included going from door to door, singing carols, and having one’s cup or bowl filled with wassail as a reward. Also, ancient Druids used wassail in an apple orchard blessing ceremony which traditionally took place in January.
There are so many different recipes for Wassail. Some include citrus and whole apples; others don’t. While cinnamon is often an ingredient, other spices such as allspice may or may not be used. There’s no one correct recipe for wassail. Simply use your favourite one or try the below recipe which is made from apple cider, whole apples, and assorted spices. Wassail is traditionally an alcoholic beverage but not everyone will want liquor in theirs. So, if you prefer, omit the brandy and serve it as Mulled Cider instead.
Apples and apple cider are effective in abundance, hope, and prosperity magick. The combined magickal properties of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg attract prosperity, as well. Serving this drink to your family and friends is a delicious way to share this magick with them.
Baking, cooking or otherwise preparing food for magickal purposes is recipe magick. This magick as no less potent than any other spellwork. As such, prepare this recipe mindfully, thinking of your magickal intentions during each and every step.
YULE WASSAIL
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of apple cider
- 2 – 3 small apples
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 12 – 15 whole cloves
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- lemon or orange slices for garnish
- 4 ounces of brandy
Instructions:
- Place all the ingredients, except for the optional brandy, in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer and cover.
- Allow to simmer until the apple skins split.
- Remove from heat and remove the apples.
- Pour the Wassail through a strainer and add the brandy, if desired.
- Serve warm.
Makes 4 – 6 servings of Wassail.