Spice Packets for Mulled Punch:
To Prepare One Spice Packet:
3 - 3-in. cinnamon sticks, broken in half
2 tsp. whole cloves
3 or 4 star anise
1 or two strips dried citrus peel
2 or 3 cardamom pods
Bundle spices in a 6-inch square of cheesecloth tied with string.
To Assemble and Serve:
8 c. apple juice or cranberry juice or red or white wine, separately or in any combination
1 orange or lemon, sliced
Pour juice (and/or wine), spice packet, and orange or lemon slices in large saucepan over low heat. When mixture starts to simmer, reduce heat slightly for 20 min., allowing flavors to combine. Serve hot, from large crock pot or coffee urn. Makes 16 punch-cup size servings.
