13 Cozy Beverages from Around the World to Warm You Up This Winter

Winter brings the perfect opportunity to indulge in warm, comforting beverages that not only help beat the chill but also offer a taste of different cultures. You do not need to travel far to enjoy these flavors, as many can be made with ingredients you already have in your kitchen. So, grab your favorite mug and get ready to sip your way through a world of cozy winter drinks. These beverages are perfect for any chilly day, bringing comfort, warmth, and a little taste of something new.

Hot Chocolate (USA)

Hot chocolate is a classic winter drink in many parts of the world, and it is perfect for a cozy day. To make it, combine 2 cups of milk, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt in a small pot. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Once hot, pour the mixture into a mug and top with whipped cream or marshmallows. For an extra kick, add a splash of vanilla extract or a dash of cinnamon. Enjoy the rich, velvety texture of this comforting treat. Hot chocolate is a wonderful way to warm up and relax on a chilly day.

Glögg (Sweden)

Sweden’s version of mulled wine is called Glögg, a flavorful spiced drink that is enjoyed during the cold months. To prepare it, combine 1 bottle of red wine, 1/2 cup of brandy, 1/4 cup of sugar, 2 cinnamon sticks, 5 cloves, and a few cardamom pods in a pot. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally until it is hot, but not boiling. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes to infuse the flavors. Strain the Glögg into mugs, and garnish with slivered almonds and raisins. Serve it warm and enjoy the aromatic, spicy flavors. Glögg is a popular choice for holiday gatherings and winter celebrations.

Chai Tea (India)

Chai tea is a spiced tea that brings warmth and comfort with every sip. To make it, boil 2 cups of water with 2 tablespoons of black tea leaves, 2 crushed cardamom pods, 2 cloves, a cinnamon stick, and a few slices of ginger. Once it comes to a boil, add 2 cups of milk and sweeten with sugar to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 5-10 minutes, then strain into a cup. Chai tea can be customized by adjusting the spice levels to your preference. It is a soothing and energizing drink that is perfect for chilly mornings. Chai will warm both your body and soul.

Té de Jamaica (Mexico)

Té de Jamaica is a refreshing hibiscus tea, perfect for warming up during colder months. To make it, steep 1/2 cup of dried hibiscus flowers in 4 cups of boiling water for about 10 minutes. Strain the mixture and discard the flowers. Add sugar to taste, and if you like, a splash of lime juice. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely. Serve it hot or chilled, depending on your preference. It is a tangy, floral drink that has the perfect balance of sweet and sour.

Irish Coffee (Ireland)

Irish coffee combines the boldness of coffee with the smoothness of whiskey, making it a perfect winter drink. In a mug, add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and a shot of Irish whiskey. Pour in freshly brewed hot coffee, filling the mug about three-quarters full. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Gently float a layer of lightly whipped cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon. Sip through the cream to experience the layers of flavor. This drink will warm you up and give you a cozy buzz.

Rooibos Tea (South Africa)

Rooibos is a naturally caffeine-free tea with a sweet, earthy flavor that is perfect for winding down. To make it, boil 2 cups of water and add 1-2 teaspoons of loose rooibos tea or 1-2 rooibos tea bags. Let the tea steep for 5-7 minutes. Once brewed, pour it into a mug and add honey or milk to taste, if desired. You can also add a slice of lemon or a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth. Rooibos has a deep, slightly sweet flavor that is especially cozy during winter nights. Enjoy this soothing tea with its rich, aromatic flavor.

Café de Olla (Mexico)

Café de Olla is a traditional Mexican spiced coffee that is often served during the colder months. To prepare it, add 2 cups of water, 2 cups of milk, 2 tablespoons of ground coffee, a cinnamon stick, and a few cloves to a pot. Bring to a boil and then lower the heat to simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally and adjust the sweetness with brown sugar or piloncillo (Mexican sugar). Once ready, strain into mugs and serve. The spiced coffee is fragrant and rich with a perfect balance of flavors. It is a great way to warm up and enjoy a cozy moment.

Salep (Turkey)

Salep is a Turkish hot drink made from orchid root flour, with a creamy and thick texture. To make it, mix 1 tablespoon of salep powder with 1 cup of milk in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency. Sweeten with sugar and add a pinch of cinnamon if you like. Pour the mixture into a mug and top with extra cinnamon or crushed pistachios. It has a unique, velvety texture and rich flavor that is perfect for winter. Salep is a great way to indulge on a cold day.

Mulled Cider (England)

Mulled cider is a spiced apple drink that is perfect for a festive winter gathering. In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of apple cider, 1 cinnamon stick, 3 cloves, 1 sliced orange, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Heat over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse. Strain the cider into mugs and garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange. It is sweet, spicy, and comforting, making it a great choice for cozy nights. Mulled cider will definitely warm you up from the inside out. It’s a classic winter drink you can’t go wrong with.

Kahwa (Kashmir, India)

Kahwa is a traditional Kashmiri green tea made with saffron, almonds, and spices. To prepare it, bring 3 cups of water to a boil, and add 1 teaspoon of green tea leaves, 2-3 crushed cardamom pods, a small cinnamon stick, and a few saffron strands. Let the tea simmer for 5 minutes, and then strain it into a teacup. Add sugar or honey to taste, and garnish with chopped almonds or pistachios. It has a warming, aromatic flavor with a touch of luxury from the saffron. Kahwa is the perfect drink to unwind with after a long day. Enjoy this flavorful, soothing tea.

Yak Butter Tea (Tibet)

This traditional Tibetan drink is made with yak butter, salt, and tea. Start by boiling 2 cups of strong black tea. While the tea brews, melt 1 tablespoon of yak butter (or substitute with unsalted butter if needed) and add it to a blender. Pour the hot tea into the blender with the butter, adding 1/4 teaspoon of salt and blending until frothy. The result is a rich, savory, and creamy beverage that is a staple in Tibetan culture. It is perfect for keeping you warm in cold, mountainous regions. Yak butter tea will fuel you for a long day in the cold.

Atole (Mexico)

Atole is a traditional Mexican drink made from cornmeal, ideal for chilly mornings. To make it, mix 1/4 cup of masa harina (corn flour) with 1 1/2 cups of water in a saucepan. Stir until the mixture dissolves and there are no lumps. Then, add 2 cups of milk, 1/4 cup of sugar, and a cinnamon stick. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency. Pour into a mug and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon. Atole is a filling, comforting drink that will keep you warm and satisfied.

Sahlab (Middle East)

Sahlab is a creamy, warming drink made from orchid root flour, similar to salep. To make it, mix 1 tablespoon of sahlab powder with 2 cups of milk in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Sweeten with sugar to taste and add a dash of rosewater or vanilla extract if desired. Pour into a mug and garnish with cinnamon or chopped pistachios. This velvety, fragrant drink is often served in the Middle East during winter months. Sahlab is rich, comforting, and perfect for a cozy evening.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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