Brewing Up Some Witchy-ness!

I was thinking about rituals. Probably due to the Summer Solstice and the great celebration we had. Also because I had one of my favorite things: Witch’s Brew. Call me crazy, but there is just something about a warm cup of Witch’s Brew.

I don’t remember where I got the recipe, or even when. I know I’ve had it for a long time. I use it every chance I get. I don’t need a ritual or celebration to brew up a batch. It is helpful though, because I can never make just a small batch!

To make the Witch’s Brew, you’ll need:

1 Gallon Apple Cider
1 Orange
1 Apple
3 Cinnamon Sticks
1/8 Teaspoon Nutmeg
1 Handful Fresh Rose Petals

Pour the apple cider into a large kettle on low heat. If you’re lucky enough to have a kitchen cauldron, it is just the right size. Peel the orange, reserving the orange peel for later. Squeeze the juice into the apple cider. Discard the pulp. I keep the pulp for smoothies later, or add it to the compost bin. Depending on whether my stomach is growling at the moment, or not.

Now, core the apple and cut into ¼ inch slices. Add them to the mixture. Break the cinnamon sticks in half before adding. Then add them, along with the nutmeg.

The original recipe I have says to tear up the orange peel into 1 inch strips and add after you squeeze the orange juice in. I’ve always found it to give the brew a bit of an after taste if the orange peel is added to soon. So, I wait until after I’ve added everything else and the brew has been on the stove for at least an hour. Then I add the orange peel and leave it to brew an additional hour. Whatever you do, do not boil the brew! If it starts to boil reduce the heat.

After it has been on the stove for two hours, and you’ve added all the ingredients; remove it from heat and let cool. Add a handful of fresh rose petals right before you serve it.

I’ve had the brew warm and cold. It is delicious either way. It started out as a special occasion drink, but became too much of a favorite to save for just a couple days a year. It is also something I like to mix up for people who are looking for love. Instead of doing a love spell for them. The brew is the perfect love potion in itself.

If you break the brew down: Orange, apple, cinnamon, and rose petals all signify love, and nutmeg adds the fidelity. Simple, but effective in a time crunch; especially if you don’t have time to do a divination, or full blown ritual.

Enjoy the Brew, and Blessed Be My Friends!