Boiled plum brandy

On chilly winter days or when you're feeling a bit under the weather, there's nothing more comforting than a cup of hot plum brandy. This traditional drink, full of flavor and warmth, is perfect for revitalizing you and boosting your mood. Hot plum brandy has been cherished by generations, with deep roots in our culture. Over time, each family has added a personal touch to the recipe, and today I will share with you the version I lovingly prepare.

Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 2 cups of plum brandy (preferably homemade for an authentic taste)
- 2.5 teaspoons of sugar
- 5-6 peppercorns (black or white, according to preference)
- 2 leaves of lovage (fresh or dried; if you don’t have fresh lovage, crushed lovage will work just as well)

Brief history:
Hot plum brandy is a traditional drink, appreciated in all corners of our country. It is known not only for its pleasant taste but also for its invigorating effects. In the past, this drink was especially used during the cold season, being considered a natural remedy for colds and a way to warm up on chilly evenings. Lovage, an essential ingredient, is recognized for its beneficial properties, having antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Choose a quality plum brandy, preferably made from plums, for a sweeter and more aromatic taste. If you don’t have fresh lovage, don’t worry, dried lovage will work just fine.

2. Boiling the brandy:
- In a small pot, pour the two cups of plum brandy. Place the pot over medium heat and let it warm up. Be careful! It is important not to let the brandy reach boiling point, as the alcohol will evaporate, and the drink will lose its potency. When you see steam rising, this is a sign that the brandy is ready for the next step.

3. Adding sugar and spices:
- Add the 2.5 teaspoons of sugar and stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. The sweet taste will balance the strength of the brandy, bringing a note of harmony. Then, add the peppercorns and lovage leaves. These will add a special aroma to your drink.

4. Straining the drink:
- Once the sugar has dissolved and you have achieved a pleasant aroma, remove the pot from the heat. Use a fine sieve to strain the drink into one or two cups. This way, you will get rid of the peppercorns and lovage leaves.

5. Serving:
- Serve the hot plum brandy steaming, perhaps with a slice of lemon for an extra touch of freshness. It is a perfect drink for a winter evening, but also to warm up after a long, cold day.

Practical tips:
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of hot plum brandy has about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. Plum brandy contains antioxidants and vitamins, while lovage adds additional benefits for digestion.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of alcohol, such as pear brandy or vodka, but don’t forget to adjust the sugar amount according to their sweetness. You can also add spices like cinnamon or cloves for a more complex flavor.
- Serving suggestions: For a more elegant presentation, you can serve the drink in porcelain cups or glass glasses, decorated with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of sugar?
- Of course! You can use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste or natural sweeteners like honey, but the latter should be added after the brandy has cooled slightly.

2. Is this drink suitable for everyone?
- Hot plum brandy contains alcohol, so it is recommended to consume it in moderation. If you have health issues or are pregnant, consult a specialist before consuming alcoholic beverages.

3. What other dishes or drinks pair well with hot plum brandy?
- This warm drink pairs perfectly with an apple pie or freshly baked sweet bread. You can also enjoy hot plum brandy alongside a warm tea or hot chocolate to further warm your winter evenings.

Personal note:
This hot plum brandy recipe reminds me of my childhood when my mother would prepare it for us on cold evenings. The aroma of lovage and the warmth of the drink gathered us around the table, creating unforgettable memories. I recommend sharing this drink with your loved ones to create beautiful moments and enjoy our traditions.

Enjoy this simple and quick recipe, full of stories and flavors! Cheers and good health!