🍊✨ Grandma Sita revives the tradition of Christmas pomanders for a sustainable and delicious holiday season. This syrup version is edible and incredibly versatile: enjoy them on their own, over ice cream, in cakes, cookies, or plant-based yogurts. Aromatic and decorative, pomanders are made by studding fresh oranges with whole cloves and gently cooking them in a spiced syrup. Store in an airtight jar to create a unique, festive gift.
INGREDIENTS *Makes 3–4 pomanders
3–4 organic oranges (preferably thick-skinned)
50–60 g whole cloves
500 ml water
300 g sugar
1 cinnamon stick
2 star anise
3–4 strips of lemon peel (optional)
METHOD
1. Prepare the oranges:
Wash and dry the oranges thoroughly. Using a skewer or toothpick, mark small holes to create lines or patterns. Insert cloves following your design.
2. Cook in syrup:
In a large pot, combine water, sugar, cinnamon, star anise, and lemon peel. Bring to a boil, then add the clove-studded oranges.
3. Slow simmer:
Reduce heat to low and cook for 40–60 minutes, turning the oranges occasionally to allow the syrup to coat them evenly. They should appear shiny and slightly darker.
4. Dry and rest:
Remove the oranges and let them dry on a wire rack for several hours or overnight. This step sets the shape and intensifies the aroma.
5. Optional storage:
For longer-lasting pomanders, keep them in the syrup in an airtight jar. They can be used as edible decorations or natural air fresheners.
👵💚Grandma Sita’s Tips:
✔ Use organic oranges to avoid wax or chemical treatments.
✔ The more cloves you use, the longer they last and the stronger the fragrance.
✔ Add extra spices to the syrup, such as ginger, cardamom, or allspice, for a festive twist.
✔ Storage: In an airtight jar, pomanders in syrup last 2–3 months.
😋 Why You’ll Love Them
💚 100% natural & zero-waste
💚 Perfect handmade gifts
💚 Aromatherapy for your dishes
💚 Long-lasting preserved food with old-world charm
💚 Budget-friendly festive food
📗A Bit of History
Pomanders were used in the Middle Ages as aromatic amulets to scent rooms and ward off illness. By the 17th century, they became a popular Christmas gift in Europe, especially in England and France. Today, they remain a symbol of luck, warmth, and holiday tradition.
♻️ A Planet-Friendly Christmas
More families are choosing natural, reusable, and plastic-free decorations. Pomanders are the perfect sustainable alternative: simple ingredients, zero waste, and a festive aroma that transforms any space. Small sustainable steps make a big difference… and smell amazing!
