25 Days of Christmas Cocktails, Day 20: Hot Ponche de Frutas

In many Latin American countries, a mug of this punch in hand can mean only one thing: Navidad is right around the corner. Served piping hot, this rum punch is defined by the pieces of tropical and dried fruits that become spirit-soaked as they steep in the cup, a treat to gobble up after you’ve finished the cocktail.

Hot Ponche de Frutas
10 cups water
4 cups white rum
½ lb. dried figs
3 apples, cored and sliced
4 black teabags
½ cup diced pineapple pieces (fresh or canned in water)
½ cup diced mango (fresh or canned in water)
2 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp clove
1 tsp allspice
½ cup brown sugar
Glass: punch

Combine all ingredients except for the rum in a large pot and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20 minutes. Turn the heat to low and add the rum. Ladle into punch glasses.

Anu Apte, Rob Roy, Seattle

Photo: Imbibe