Heard about simmer pots? They are simple to create with water and transform your homes into cosy winter havens, especially during Christmas time. These pots release warm, spiced aromas that can evoke holiday
magic without candles or diffusers.
They are filled with seasonal fruits, herbs, and spices and are simmered gently in water; they create an inviting scent in the home without using any artificial fragrances. It can linger in your home for hours while boosting the mood and creating a sense of warmth and communal feeling.
Why Simmer Pots Shine in Winter
As days shorten and gatherings multiply, simmer pots deliver instant festivity. They mimic mulled wine or gingerbread without baking, perfect for family movie nights, solo hygge or even festive gatherings.
The steam humidifies dry indoor air from heaters, easing sinuses while the scents trigger nostalgia – cinnamon for cookies, evergreens for wreaths, vanilla for cakes. Eco-friendly and chemical-free, they outshine synthetic sprays, fostering relaxation amid December’s hustle.
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Three Festive Recipes
For this festive season, home and lifestyle influencer Jenna Shaughnessy shared 3 combinations that you can try at home to make your home smell like a winter wonderland:
Citrus & Spice: Combine orange/lemon slices, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tbsp cloves, 2 rosemary sprigs, and 1 tsp vanilla in a pot with 4 cups of water. Simmer low for a bright, uplifting vibe.
Apple Pie: Add apple slices, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp nutmeg, 1 tsp vanilla, and 1-2 star anise to 4 cups of water. Evokes bakery warmth for cosy evenings.
Holiday Cedar: Mix cedar/rosemary sprigs, orange slices, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tsp cloves, and optionally 2 drops peppermint in 4 cups of water. Mimics a Christmas tree forest.
Tips to keep in mind when making a simmer pot
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Always use fresh ingredients in this pot, as they bring the potent fragrance. While the dried spices and herbs work, they also fade faster. Start on the stovetop, then transfer to a slow cooker or the oven on low. You can create DIY simmer pot gifts by bundling a few ingredients together in a pouch and sharing it with loved ones for Christmas or New Year.
You can customise the fragrances based on what you have at home and swap ingredients around to make a scent that is unique to your home. Cranberries bring tartness and ginger will add heat. Refill water hourly to prevent burning; add more spices midway for sustained scent.
Safety First
Never leave the simmer pots unattended, as it can risk a fire. Use a medium-sized pot and avoid overloading the pot with ingredients so that it doesn’t overflow. Keep them away from kids and pets. Ensure there is enough ventilation in the kitchen to prevent steam from making your home smoky. Discard the liquid after 24 hours to avoid bacteria, and don’t ingest the liquid in the pot. You can use a candle warmer instead of having the pot on the gas the entire time.
