Homemade Stovetop Potpourri

With all of these snowstorms that we’ve experienced in West Michigan, it has called for some creative activities in the house. I grew up with my mom having dried potpourri on the stove and that inspired me to try something myself. Stovetop potpourri. Though not dried and uses fresh ingredients, I have to say it was worth the smell! Something additional to enjoy on these snow days.

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s not just a one-time use. Maybe it’s supposed to be, but I’m Dutch and I will stretch anything to the max! After initial use, I have reheated it 4 times, and it still puts off a great smell. The key though, is to ensure there is enough water in the mixture each time so that it doesn’t dry or burn in the pan. So each time, add a little water if needed.

This is all it takes: cinnamon sticks, grapefruit, lemon, vanilla, and rosemary. If you’re wondering where to get rosemary, or any fresh spice for that matter, usually it’s in the fresh produce section.

Slice up the grapefruit and lemon. Put 2 sticks of cinnamon sticks and 2 sprigs of rosemary in a pot with water. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla. Heat until it boils. Turn down heat to a simmer. Simmer for hours if you’d like. It doesn’t take long to get this amazing smell permeating through the house!

HOMEMADE STOVETOP POTPOURRI

Ingredients:

• 2 sprigs rosemary
• ½ of a lemon, sliced
• ½ of a grapefruit, sliced
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 2 cinnamon sticks

1. Fill pot with water.
2. Cut lemon and grapefruit into slices.
3. Add lemon, grapefruit, vanilla, cinnamon sticks, and rosemary to pot.
4. Heat until it boils and turn down to a simmer.
5. Simmer until your house is filled with this Christmas goodness.

Note: Refrigerate after use and reheat in pot again. Make sure to add water to ensure there is enough so that it doesn’t burn on the bottom.