Did your mom ever simmer fragrant items from the kitchen on the stove just for the scent? It makes the nicest smelling space for Christmas or a cold day. The warmth of the spices and familiar scents of citrus make a home feel cozy and inviting.
Here’s how I do it:
I love to put together these “simmer pots” (or some call it “potpourri”) for the holiday season. I purchase bulk whole-spices like nutmeg, cinnamon sticks, star anise and cloves. I add one or two each to a jar and add slices of oranges and apples. Oh and cranberries for the color. If I have a real Christmas tree in the house or access to a tree I can trim- I add a few sprigs of pine branches. I add water to the jar and keep in my fridge for a few weeks. When the time comes to use it I add everything to a small- but deep- pan (making sure there is enough water to cover the ingredients) and simmer.
If you try this at home be sure to watch the water level as it cooks (it will evaporate and you don’t want a burnt mess on your hands that will ruin the lovely smell you are going for)! A tiny crockpot slow cooker works great for this too. This is a great thing to do for a party or a day you are cooking a lot and will remember to watch the stove.
The ingredients can be strained and put back in the jar with fresh water for another day. I usually get 2 or 3 uses out of one jar. If the Fritos looking gross I just keep the spices and add fresh ones each use.
Be sure to Google these and find other ingredients ideas. Some people even make tags you can print and put on the jars for gifts. I hope you enjoy this project!
