Step 1: Gather all your ingredients. This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to adjust quantities or add other aromatic elements like apple peels or ginger slices.
Step 2: Add all the chosen ingredients (orange slices/peels, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, cranberries, star anise, rosemary) to a medium-sized, heavy-bottomed pot or saucepan.
Step 3: Fill the pot with enough water to completely cover the ingredients, ensuring there's about 1-2 inches of space from the rim to prevent boiling over once simmering.
Step 4: Place the pot on your stovetop over low heat. Bring the water to a gentle simmer; you should see small, consistent bubbles, not a rapid boil. A slow cooker set to 'low' can also be used for a more hands-off approach.
Step 5: Allow the simmer pot to gently release its fragrance into your home. Periodically, check the water level and replenish it as it evaporates. This is crucial to maintain the aroma and prevent the ingredients from scorching.
Step 6: Continue simmering for 2 to 4 hours, or as long as desired. Always ensure the pot is supervised and has sufficient water. When finished, carefully turn off the heat and let the pot cool completely. The ingredients can be strained and composted, or if you plan to reuse them (see notes), store them properly.