Embrace winter wellness with comfy beverages and cocktails at holiday parties

The Aujasya herbal infusions, from The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts,  offer health-boosting options enriched with turmeric, ginger, and black pepper (Image: Aujasya by The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts)

As the chill of winter settles in, there's nothing quite like a warm, comforting drink to soothe the soul. This season, experts are reimagining classic drinks and creating innovative warm concoctions that not only recharge the body but also nourishes the spirit for holiday gatherings lined up for coming months. From adding spices to topping up with healthy ingredients and garnish, there’s a lot you can explore beyond the familiar when it comes to winter drinks at parties and brunches.

A symphony of flavours:

The presentation of a drink is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate. Unique glassware, garnishes of fresh herbs, edible flowers, and colourful spices elevate the drinking experience. Turmeric lattes, a golden elixir rich in antioxidants, have become a winter staple. Herbal infusions such as chamomile and peppermint promote relaxation, aid digestion, and never fail to impress.

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Perfect for the cold days, healthy warm drinks with a range of innovative and health-conscious concoctions is all the buzz this season. According to Dr Ankita Jalori, nutritionist and health & wellness consultant at The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts, to blend wellness and luxury in a concoction, she suggests, “We believe each offering should be innovative and visually captivating, reflecting our commitment to holistic wellness while bringing in a refreshing and vitality-infused outlook. Incorporating seasonal and fresh local ingredients like citrus fruits, pomegranates, and warm spices such as cinnamon adds flavour and seasonal charm. For instance, a vibrant citrus mocktail infused with herbs can celebrate the winter bounty. To enhance visual appeal, use unique glassware and garnish with fresh herbs, edible flowers, or colourful spices. Layering ingredients for a striking gradient effect can make drinks more inviting. Additionally, ice cubes infused with fruits or herbs not only look beautiful but also release flavors as they melt.”

Hot and stylish:

Incorporating warming ingredients can enhance winter cocktails and mocktails for chic soirees and parties. Citing some examples, Dr Jalori mentions, “Winter drinks not only provide warmth but also exemplify wellness and indulgence for an enriched guest experience. Our Aujasya herbal infusions offer health-boosting options enriched with turmeric, ginger, and black pepper. We have also crafted the Leela Amrit, a nourishing drink with organic basil, roasted cumin, wild honey, lime, and organic ginger. The cocktails elevate this concept further with in-house made fruit shrubs infused with spices and herbs. Notable selections include the F&M Martini, which combines fennel with vodka, and the Golden Tonic, featuring turmeric, honey, lemon, and gin. The Basil Smash is a nostalgic tequila cocktail with fresh watermelon juice and honey.”

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A perfect pairing:

To complement these winter warmers, a variety of healthy snacks can be enjoyed. Homemade trail mix, a blend of nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, is a nutritious and satisfying choice. When it comes to pairing healthy snacks with winter drinks, focusing on high-protein snacks and probiotic foods is key, especially when serving low-sugar beverages, explains Dr Jalori. She says, “A delightful option is homemade trail mix, which pairs wonderfully with tea or herbal infusions, providing a satisfying crunch and nutritional boost. Seasonal fruits can also be a refreshing complement to winter drinks, adding natural sweetness and vibrancy to the table. Consider nuts served alongside smoothies, or fox nuts enjoyed with turmeric milk for a warm, nourishing experience. Vegetable sticks, such as cucumber and carrot, served with hummus and accompanied by green tea, provide a crisp and refreshing contrast. Whole grain crackers or millet crackers work well with soups, while roasted sweet potato with cottage cheese and ragi malt makes for a hearty, wholesome snack.”