Here in Bozeman today it is cloudy, chilly and drizzly. I love these days. It’s one of the first ones with a hint of fall in the air. You can stand outside, close your eyes and imagine the sound of elk bugling and picture big browns chasing down streamers. After a long, hot summer these days feel great.
This is one of those days that definitely qualifies as hot drink weather. The morning cup of coffee always tastes better when there is a nip in the air. Sitting on the back porch this morning drinking my coffee looking out at the Bridgers partly hidden by clouds made me start thinking about fall and all the goodness it brings. One of the many things I enjoy about fall? Hot Buttered Rum.
This super rich and damn good drink is perfect after a long day in the elk woods or on the river. It’s actually pretty easy to make. Here’s what you need:
2 cups water
1/2 stick unsalted butter
1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/8 tsp salt
2/3 cup dark rum
Here’s what you do:
Mix everything but the rum into a large saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally. Makes sure to stir up the sugar off the bottom of the pan so it doesn’t burn. Remove from heat, stir in rum and serve piping hot. Garnish with a cinnamon stick if you are trying to impress someone.
One twist on the recipe that brings in a bit more flavor is to brown the sugar slightly before adding the water and simmering. Be careful not to burn it though… Add the butter, sugar and other spices to the saucepan first and stir constantly as the butter melts. Keep the mixture moving so it won’t burn. You don’t need to do this for too long to add that extra bit of flavor.
Enjoy.
