Happy Holidays from the glittering shores of Puerto Vallarta! In Mexico, we celebrate all through the season—often with Ponche Navideño, an especially popular drink in Puerto Vallarta. Ponche Navideño offers warmth, comfort, and the sweet taste of honey, anise and vanilla—and makes a bright, festive appearance at every party. Hint: This punch does not call for alcohol, but adding a splash of rum or tequila gives it an extra-delicious holiday kick.
Vallarta Christmas Punch Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 quarts of water
- 12 oz. of brown sugar
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 lb. tejocotes or substitute 1 apple
- 1 1⁄2 lb. guavas (about 12 guavas)
- 3/4 cup chopped prunes
- 1 1⁄2 cup chopped apples
- 1 cup chopped pear
- 1⁄2 cup raisins
- 3 sugar cane sticks, about 5-inches long, cut into four pieces each
Method
1.- Simmer water in a large pot.
2.- Add the brown sugar, tejocotes (or apple) and cinnamon sticks to the water. Let simmer
for 15 minutes.
3.- Add the chopped guavas, apples, prunes, and remaining dry ingredients to the pot.
4.-Simmer mixture for approx. 1 hour. Serve hot in mugs with fruit garnish.
Optional: Add a splash of rum or tequila for a festive kick.