Mezcal & Hibiscus Toddy by Anders Erickson

Ingredients

• to tasteMezcal
• to tasteAgave nectar
• to tasteLemon juice
• to tasteHibiscus tea
• to tasteCinnamon
• to tasteClove
• to tasteOrange

Instructions

1. 1

   Check the proportions

   The supplied recipe information gives no quantities or method. Confirm the intended proportions with the original publisher before preparing the drink.

2. 2

   Prepare the tea

   Brew the hibiscus tea according to its packaging, unless the original instructions specify otherwise.

3. 3

   Combine and serve

   The supplied instructions do not say how to combine or garnish the ingredients. Follow the original publisher's method for adding the mezcal, agave nectar, lemon juice, cinnamon, clove and orange.

What is a Mezcal & Hibiscus Toddy?

A Hot Toddy is a warm drink traditionally built around a spirit and a hot, flavoured liquid. This version is described as a variation that pairs mezcal with hibiscus, citrus, sweetener and spices.

The supplied description credits Anders Erickson, but gives no further account of the drink's origin or exact formulation. The combination suggests a contrast between mezcal's smoky character and hibiscus's tart fruitiness.

The ingredients

Hibiscus tea: it provides the hot, tart base indicated by the drink's name. Its strength will affect how prominent the floral and sour notes are.

Mezcal: this supplies the spirit and its characteristic smoky flavour. The recipe information does not specify a type or quantity.

Citrus and sweetener: lemon juice and orange bring acidity and aroma, while agave nectar adds sweetness. No amounts are supplied, so the balance cannot be reproduced exactly.

Spices: cinnamon and clove add warm, aromatic notes. Use the original publisher's quantities if available, as these flavours can readily dominate.

Balancing the flavours

The drink's main balance is between tart hibiscus and lemon, sweet agave, and smoky mezcal. Since no proportions are provided, there is no reliable way to specify how much of each to use.

If you are adapting it at home, adjust the sweetener and citrus gradually and taste as you go. Treat that as a personal variation rather than the original recipe's exact method.

Serving it warm

A toddy is generally served warm, but the supplied method does not say whether the mezcal is added to the tea before or after heating. Avoid heating the spirit directly unless the original instructions call for it.

Serve promptly once prepared so the drink remains warm. The recipe details do not specify a garnish or glass.

Timing and preparation

No total time, steeping time or preparation sequence was supplied. The time needed will depend on the tea and the instructions on its packaging.

For an accurate recreation, consult the original publisher's full recipe for measurements and method before mixing the ingredients.

What to serve alongside

The recipe information does not prescribe an accompaniment. A small biscuit or a piece of dark chocolate can be served alongside if you want a simple pairing, though neither is part of the listed drink.

Recipe notes & tips

• Check the original recipe for exact quantities before mixing.
• Brew the hibiscus tea as directed on its packaging.
• Add sweetener gradually if you are adjusting the drink to your taste.
• Keep cinnamon and clove measured carefully, as both have assertive flavours.
• Do not assume the mezcal should be heated; the supplied method does not specify this.

Variations

• Sweeter balance: Add agave gradually to taste, treating this as an adjustment rather than the original formulation.
• More citrus: Increase the lemon juice slightly for a sharper personal variation.
• Stronger tea: Brew the hibiscus tea for longer only if its packaging allows it.
• Spice emphasis: Adjust the cinnamon or clove cautiously to suit your preference.
• Orange aroma: Use the orange as a fresh aromatic accompaniment if the original method permits.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Guessing the proportions: the supplied recipe gives none, so look up the original measurements before making it.
• Overdoing the spices: cinnamon and clove can overwhelm the other flavours; add them sparingly when adapting.
• Making the tea too strong: follow its packaging directions to avoid an overly intense base.
• Heating the mezcal: the provided information does not say to heat it; check the original method first.
• Assuming a garnish: orange is listed as an ingredient, but its intended use is not specified.

How to store

The supplied recipe gives no storage guidance. For best quality, prepare the drink shortly before serving rather than storing it; follow the tea packaging instructions for any unused brewed tea.

Frequently asked questions