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Citrus Spice Simmer

A fragrant simmering pot featuring orange zest and cinnamon sticks, infused with water to create a warming, aromatic beverage or home fragrance. The ingredients release their scents through gentle heat, transforming into a bubbling, fragrant liquid with a vibrant citrus-orange hue and warm spice aroma. The final appearance is a steaming, clear to lightly colored liquid with floating citrus peels and cinnamon sticks, ready to fill your space with cozy scent.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: comfort
Calories: 10
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces orange zest preferably from fresh oranges
  • 2 sticks cinnamon sticks whole, unsweetened
  • 4 cups water

Equipment

  • Small saucepan or pot
  • Slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. Place the water in a small saucepan and add the orange zest and cinnamon sticks.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, hearing the water bubble softly and releasing fragrant steam.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse and the aroma to intensify.
  4. Stir occasionally with a slotted spoon if needed, ensuring the spices stay submerged, and watch as the liquid develops a warm orange hue.
  5. Turn off the heat once the mixture is fragrant and the liquid has slightly reduced, about 15 minutes, and remove the cinnamon sticks.
  6. Strain the liquid if desired to remove any residual zest or spice pieces for a clearer presentation.
  7. Pour the fragrant liquid into cups or small bowls, steaming and brightly scented, ready to enjoy or use as a warm room filler.

Notes

Can be customized by adding vanilla extract or honey for added flavor. Perfect for cozy mornings or ambient home scents.