A traditional Old Norse greeting 'ves heil', literally meaning "good health", the word 'wassail' has evolved over the course of a millenium to it's present form. It has gone from a simple greeting, to a toast involving a drink made from various fruits and juices and, usually, ale or dark beer or brandy. It often contained floating rings of oranges and lemons, which would have filled it with Vitamin C; undoubtedly an advantageous thing to drink in the days of yore, when scurvy was rampant.
Wassail was such a popular beverage in ancient England, that it even appears in its literature as early as the eighth-century poem, Beowulf, and has had numerous carols and songs written in its honor; such as "Here We Come A-Wassailing". Although, not originally English, wassail and its familiar toast, was so popular and steeped in English lore, that it was considered by the eleventh-century, conquering Normans to be native to England and its people.
The wassail bowl itself dates to the thirteenth century, when it was used to dip bread and cakes into. Floating pieces of crisp bread on the surface of the wassail bowl is the origin of our modern-day version of the phrase 'giving a toast' or 'toasting'. These bowls were made of the finest materials available in order to withstand heavy use.
Wassail is a traditional drink, usually served around the holidays, but is delicious all winter long. A delicious stand-by in many homes over the years, it is a great alternative to alcoholic beverages to warm up those cold, blustery months. Made on the stove top, or, in a slow-cooker (such as a Crock-Pot), it is not only fast and easy, but stays warm and delicious for hours. In fact, the longer it simmers, the more the flavors blend together and create a spicy, citrus delight!
Wassail Bowl Recipe
- 2 quarts sweet apple cider
- 2 cups orange juice
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 1 large can pineapple juice
- 1 whole cinnamon stick
- 12 whole cloves
- Honey to taste
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients into a large pot on the stove and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- DO NOT let mixture come to a boil.
- These ingredients may also be combined in a slow-cooker and heated on high until mixture is hot, but not boiling. Reduce setting to low.
Suggestions:
- The cinnamon stick and cloves may be tied up in a small piece of cheesecloth while in the wassail.
- Strain the spices before serving
- Sugar may be substituted for the honey, if preferred
Source(s):
HOL101
Marci Sanchez - Marci Sanchez began winning writing contests at the age of sixteen. She is a voracious reader and loves to learn about others through both ...
Join the Conversation