It has been a strange past couple weeks here at McGill. We’ve had our safety impeded by unnecessary riot police, and our campus has turned into a battleground. But, fortunately, some fine leaders have stepped up to remind us that our anger can be turned into inspiration and positive action. Incredible measures of strength, such as those we’re witnessing on our own campus, make it clear that change is possible.
So the next time you need a minute to sit back and reflect on the changes we’re undeniably witnessing take place at McGill, in Montreal, and within ourselves, curl up to your thoughts with something warm and soothing to take the edge off of the brilliant, but intense energy circulating around campus these days. With that in mind, I bring you my two favourite winter drinks for when you need a little comfort to find your courage.
Vegan Hot chocolate
Serves 4
1 cup canned coconut milk
4 tsp. vanilla extract
3/4 cup white sugar
1/3 cup cocoa powder
A few dashes of ground cinnamon
4 cups boiling water
1. Stir together the coconut milk, vanilla, sugar, cocoa powder, and cinnamon.
2. Pour in boiling water, stirring constantly.
Apple Cider
Serves 4
4 cups apple cider
2 tbsp. maple syrup
4 small cinnamon sticks
4 whole cloves
4 whole allspice berries
4 strips of orange peel
4 strips of lemon peel
1 empty tea bag or steeper
1. Pour the apple cider and maple syrup into a saucepan.
2. Place the cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, orange peel, and lemon peel into an empty tea bag or steeper, and carefully place them into the cider mixture.
3. Place the saucepan over moderate heat until the cider is very hot, but not boiling.
4. Ladle into mugs, and serve with an additional cinnamon stick, if desired.