| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: Zero, requires chilling | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 300 | 0.3g | 0g | 56g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 44g | 7g | 2g | 0.03g |
As we slide into the warmer part of the latter year, nothing quite signals the arrival of spring like a glass of Sweet Woodruff Punch. It is in these months that I truly value my time in the kitchen. The recipe has been a cherished part of numerous family gatherings and combines a delightful taste of fruital freshness with a hint of that unique New England flavor this Bostonian Irish lad knows all too well. Imagine a warm evening with sunsets painted a fierce purple and pink and you, lounging in your garden, sipping on the aromatic flavors of this punch.
A Homage to My Irish and New England Roots
My love for this fruit-laden punch draws strongly on my Irish heritage and New England upbringing. My grandparents often treated us to a comforting hot toddy on cold evenings before the hearth. The Sweet Woodruff Punch, with its vibrant fusion of fruits, lemon zest, and sweet scent of woodruff, is a bright and buoyant counterpart. A fine bottle of dry white wine adds an irresistibly crisp backbone to this punch, while the champagne or sparkling wine brings an effervescence that truly personifies the feeling of spring.
As with many of my recipes, Sweet Woodruff Punch hasn’t escaped the influence of New England. A common sight during spring and early summer in Boston, the tradition of including fresh berries is one I hold dear. The addition of fresh strawberries and raspberries not only adds an invigorating burst of color but also enhances the complexity of flavors.
Marrying the Flavors and Healthful Benefits
But the Sweet Woodruff Punch isn’t just a riot of flavors; it’s an elixir of good health. Strawberries and raspberries are famed for their antioxidant properties. Additionally, their high fiber content can boost your digestive health. Lemon brings Vitamin C to the mix, fortifying your immune system.
Accompany your Sweet Woodruff Punch with classic grilled fish or a Reuben Sandwich. I’m sure, just like us, you’ll find it a refreshingly invigorating addition to any meal.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups of water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 bunch fresh sweet woodruff
- 1 large lemon, juiced
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 cups fresh raspberries
- 1 large orange, sliced
- 1 bottle (750 ml) dry white wine
- 2 cups champagne or sparkling wine
- Ice cubes
- Mint leaves for garnish
Method
Step One
Start by preparing your ingredients. You will need to juice your large lemon, hull and slice your strawberries, and cut your orange into thin slices. Put your fresh sweet woodruff to the side, as it will be used whole.
Step Two
In a large pot, bring the 6 cups of water and 1 cup of sugar to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sugar is fully dissolved, stirring regularly.
Step Three
Remove the water and sugar mixture from heat. Add in your bunch of sweet woodruff and let it steep in the mixture for about 30 minutes.
Step Four
After the sweet woodruff has steeped, remove it from the pot and discard it. Then add the lemon juice, strawberries, raspberries, and orange slices.
Step Five
Pour in the bottle of dry white wine and stir gently to combine. Then place the mixture in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours.
Step Six
Just before serving, add in the 2 cups of champagne or sparkling wine. Add ice cubes to each glass before pouring the punch.
Step Seven
Serve your Sweet Woodruff Punch garnished with fresh mint leaves. Enjoy this refreshing and festive punch!
