ponche

It's back. I've been waiting all year for this heart-warming holiday treat. Ponche is code for hot punch with tropical fruits. You can buy it from street vendors just about anywhere this time of year, but I decided to try and make it myself.

Ingredients generally include guava, apple, tejocote (orange things), tamarind, sugar cane, a piloncillo (block of brown sugar), and cinnamon stick.

Boil in water for a long time.

Serve hot with chunks of fruit and a piece of sugar cane. (Maybe add some rum?) To me, the flavors are much more complex and satisfying than apple cider. Really good.

-PJ