A Christmas Simmer Pot

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Natural Fragrance: Unlike synthetic air fresheners, this simmer pot uses all-natural ingredients to create a cozy atmosphere in your home.
  • Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have this simmer pot ready in no time.
  • Thoughtful Gift: Assembling the ingredients into gift bags provides a personal and aromatic gift option for loved ones.
  • Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your personal scent preferences or to utilize what you have on hand.

Ingredients

  • 2 large naval oranges
  • 3½ cups fresh cranberries (about 18 ounces)
  • ¼ cup whole cloves
  • 20 whole cinnamon sticks
  • 10 sprigs of fresh rosemary

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Dehydrate Orange Slices:
    • Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
    • Slice the naval oranges into ⅛ to ¼ inch thick rounds.
    • Pat the slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
    • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the orange slices in a single layer.
    • Bake for approximately 3 hours, flipping the slices halfway through.
    • The oranges are done when they appear dry and are no longer shiny.
  2. Assemble Simmer Pot Gift Bags:
    • In each treat bag, layer the following ingredients:
      • ⅓ cup fresh cranberries
      • 5-6 whole cloves
      • 2 cinnamon sticks
      • 2 dried orange slices
      • 1 fresh sprig of rosemary
    • Secure the bags with twist ties or decorative ribbons.
    • Optionally, attach printable gift tags with usage instructions.
  3. Using the Simmer Pot:
    • Empty the contents of one gift bag into a saucepan.
    • Add 3 cups of water to the pan.
    • Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
    • Allow the mixture to simmer, adding more water as needed to prevent drying out.
    • For an alternative method, you can use a mini slow cooker set on low heat.

Servings and Timing

  • Yield: This recipe makes 10 simmer pot gift bags.
  • Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes (excluding the time to dehydrate orange slices).
  • Dehydrating Time: About 3 hours for the orange slices.

Variations

  • Additional Spices: Incorporate star anise or allspice berries for a different aromatic profile.
  • Herbal Elements: Substitute rosemary with fresh pine sprigs or add bay leaves for a woodsy scent.
  • Citrus Options: Use lemon or lime slices in place of oranges for a varied citrus aroma.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Unused gift bags can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. If using fresh ingredients, it’s best to refrigerate and use within a few days.
  • Reheating: The simmer pot mixture can be reheated by adding fresh water and bringing it back to a simmer. For best results, use the mixture within 2-3 days, storing it in the refrigerator between uses.

FAQs

What is a Christmas simmer pot?

A Christmas simmer pot is a stovetop potpourri made by simmering a combination of fruits, spices, and herbs in water to create a natural, festive aroma throughout your home.

Can I reuse the simmer pot ingredients?

Yes, you can reuse the simmer pot ingredients for up to 2-3 days. After each use, allow the mixture to cool, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to use again, add fresh water and bring it back to a simmer.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones?

While fresh cranberries are preferred for their natural scent and color, dried cranberries can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that dried cranberries may not provide as strong a fragrance.

How long should I let the simmer pot simmer?

You can let the simmer pot simmer for several hours, but it’s important to monitor the water level and add more as needed to prevent the ingredients from burning.

Can I add essential oils to the simmer pot?

Yes, adding a few drops of essential oils like cinnamon or orange can enhance the fragrance. However, use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the natural scents of the ingredients.

Is it safe to leave the simmer pot unattended?

No, it’s not recommended to leave the simmer pot unattended. Always keep an eye on it to ensure the water doesn’t evaporate completely, which could lead to the ingredients burning and creating a fire hazard.

Can I use a slow cooker instead of a stovetop pot?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker set on low heat as an alternative to the stovetop. This method allows for longer simmering times without the need for constant monitoring.

What other fruits can I use in a simmer pot?

Other fruits like apples, pears, or lemons can be used in a simmer pot. Each fruit will contribute its unique scent to the overall aroma.

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