Listen, we’re all about coming home to an inviting, yummy-smelling home after a long day but we’re NOT about the toxins found in synthetic fragrances. If this sounds like you, too, you’re in for a real treat. Simmer pots are a super easy and natural way to make your space smell cozy and autumnal in just a few minutes. All it takes is a pot of water, aromatic herbs and spices, and some ripe fruit.
The History of Simmer Pots
Back when the hearth was the center of the home, people often hung simmer pots over an open fire, imparting the essence of their natural surroundings all year round. Some say simmer pots originated in pagan cultures as a ritual to honor the seasonal shifts and cleanse the home during these transitional times. Depending on what was in season, a mix of fresh herbs, spices, fruits, vegetables, cones, leaves and blooms were used. In any case, the bubbling cauldron of predominantly water released steam throughout the day, adding much needed humidity to the dry winter air of a fire-heated home.
This helped keep everyone’s mucous membranes moisturized and respiratory systems healthy. The addition of aromatic botanicals like lavender and rosemary helped to mask unpleasant smells when towns were densely populated and homes were surrounded by farm animals, untreated water, wood-burning fires, and damp earth. As time went on, different cultures across the world started using simmer pots as a means to impart the health benefits of medicinal herbs on a daily basis. Nowadays, most people enjoy simmer pots in the fall and winter months when looking to create a homey, inviting environment.
Apple Pie Simmer Pot Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 chopped apples
- Peel of one orange or clementine
- 4 whole cloves
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3-4 pieces of sliced fresh ginger
- Water
Method:
- Add all ingredients to a wide pot and cover with water.
- Bring the water to a rolling simmer and then turn the heat down to a low simmer.
- Enjoy the delicious apple pie aroma all day long!
- Keep your eye on the water level, adding more water as needed.
