How to Boil Spices to Make a Fragrant Home
- 1). Fill a pot or slow cooker with 8 cups of water and add 2 tbsp. of vinegar. If using a pot, it must be on a back burner. Bring the mixture to a simmer over high heat. This base acts as a neutralizer, which will eliminate foul odors.
- 2). Reduce the heat to low. Add desired spices. Measurement guidelines are as follows: 2 tbsp. of cinnamon or one to two cinnamon sticks, 1 tbsp. of vanilla, 1 tbsp. of ground or whole allspice, 1 tsp. cloves, 2 tsp. of almond extract, and 1 tbsp. of ground nutmeg. For a sweeter scent, 1 tbsp. to 2 tbsp. of dried lemon, oranges or apples may be added. For floral scents, add 1/4 cup of dried lavender or rose leaves. A combination of 3 or 4 spices will allow each scent to be distinguished, without being overpowering.
- 3). Allow the pot to simmer over low heat, as desired. Occasionally check the water levels and add more water as needed.
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