Holiday Simmering Potpourri
This simmering potpourri involves gently boiling cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and citrus rinds in water to release a warm, festive aroma. The mixture creates a fragrant, bubbling infusion that fills the home with a cozy, holiday scent, and offers a visually simmering and bubbling appearance on the stovetop.
Equipment
- Saucepan or small pot
- Ladle or slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 2 cups water enough to cover ingredients in the pot
- 1 cup cranberries fresh or frozen
- 2 cinnamon sticks cinnamon sticks whole
- 1 orange citrus rind stripped from the orange using a peeler or zester
Instructions
- Pour water into your saucepan and add the cranberries, cinnamon sticks, and citrus rind.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, listening for soft bubbling and noticing the cranberries beginning to float and crack open.
- Reduce the heat if the mixture starts to boil vigorously; maintain a steady, gentle simmer to avoid burning or splashing.
- Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the aroma of cinnamon and citrus to fill the room while cranberries soften and release their color and flavor.
- Stir occasionally with a ladle or spoon to help release the scents and ensure even heating.
- Once the mixture is fragrant and the cranberries are soft but still holding their shape, turn off the heat and carefully remove the cinnamon sticks and citrus rinds if desired.
- Pour the fragrant liquid into a heatproof bowl or onto a tray for a decorative display, or let it simmer gently on low if kept on the stove for ongoing aroma.
- Enjoy the cozy, festive aroma wafting through your home, creating a warm holiday atmosphere.
Notes
Keep an eye on the mixture to prevent drying out or burning. Refill with water as needed to maintain the simmer. Feel free to add extra citrus or cinnamon for a more intense fragrance.