Warm Spiced Pear Elixir

YIELD: 2-3 SERVINGS

This soothing drink blends ripe pears, warming spices and a touch of honey for a naturally sweet, nonalcoholic treat. It’s perfect for cozy evenings and supports relaxation, digestion and seasonal comfort. 

INGREDIENTS

2 ripe pears, cored and chopped (or 3 cups pear juice/nectar)

4 cups water (or half water, half pear juice for richer flavor)

2-4 Tbsp honey, to taste

1-2 whole cinnamon sticks

2 whole star anise pods

3-4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed (or ½ tsp ground cardamom)

1 Tbsp lemon juice (optional)

1-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced (optional)

DIRECTIONS

In a medium saucepan, combine the water (or the water-juice blend), pears, honey, cinnamon, star anise, cardamom and optional ginger. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring to dissolve the honey. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes.

Remove from heat, keep covered and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, pressing lightly without mashing the solids.

RECIPE NOTES:

For a deeper, cozier flavor, increase the amount of ginger, or try adding cloves, a strip of orange peel or a splash (¼ tsp) of vanilla.