Rum Punch

1. 1

   For spice, I like to use 2 cinnamon sticks, 8 black peppercorns, 1 star anise, 8 cloves, 4 cardamom pods, and 2 allspice berries.

2. 2

   Brew your tea with your spices, let steep, and strain. Add the sugar in while the water is still hot, and stir to dissolve. Once it has cooled, mix the remaining ingredients together, adding the spirit last. If you like, you can grate spices over each glass at your party. (I like to leave a grater and spice right by the punch bowl/pitcher so that each guest can add however much or little as she likes.)

3. 3

   This basic ratio can be applied to any number of punch variations: try a floral gin punch with meyer lemon and verbena tea in the springtime, or bourbon with bitter orange and mint when Seville oranges are in season. Change up the spices, spirits, tea and even the sugar source (honey or agave anyone?) to suit the season and your tastes.

No additional tips available.