Start by preparing the flavoring ingredients. Wash the orange thoroughly under hot running water, using a vegetable brush to remove any dirt and wax from the skin. Dry it with a paper towel. Using a sharp knife, slice the entire orange into pieces about 0.5 cm thick. Peel the ginger root using a small knife or the edge of a teaspoon (the skin comes off easily), and then cut it into thin slices.
Description
Spiced hot apple cider is the essence of autumn-winter comfort captured in a mug. It is an aromatic, warming drink made from natural apple juice, slowly heated with a bouquet of spices such as cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and fresh ginger. The addition of fresh orange slices gives it a citrusy freshness and balances the sweetness of the apples. The drink has a deep, golden-amber color, and the aroma that fills the house while it cooks creates an incredibly cozy atmosphere. It tastes sweet, but with a noticeable hint of acidity, featuring distinct, spicy notes of the spices. It is perfect for chilly evenings, gatherings with friends, or as a non-alcoholic alternative to mulled wine during holiday celebrations. It can be served to both children and adults, who can optionally enhance their portion with a splash of rum or brandy.
Ingredients (8)
- Natural apple juice 1000 ml
- Orange 1 szt.
- Star anise 1 szt.
- Fresh ginger 20 g
- 🌿 Przyprawy
- Cinnamon stick 3 szt.
- Cloves 1 g
- ✨ Opcjonalne
- wildflower honey 30 g
- Fresh cranberry 50 g
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Preparation steps
In a large pot with a thick bottom (with a capacity of at least 2-3 liters), place all the prepared ingredients. Pour in 1000 ml of natural apple juice. Add the sliced orange, ginger slices, two cinnamon sticks, two star anise, and whole cloves. If you are using optional fresh cranberries, add them at this point as well.
Place a pot on the stove over medium heat. Slowly heat the mixture until it is very hot and small bubbles start to appear on the surface, just before boiling. When this happens, immediately reduce the burner to the lowest setting. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving a small gap, and let the drink gently simmer for at least 30 minutes. The longer it heats on low, the more intense and deep its aroma will be.
Remove the pot from the heat. Taste the drink and decide if it needs additional sweetness. If so, wait 2-3 minutes until it cools slightly, and add honey (or maple syrup), stirring gently until completely dissolved. You can strain the cider through a fine mesh sieve to remove the spices and pieces of fruit, resulting in a clear drink. Alternatively, for a more rustic effect, ladle it into mugs, trying to scoop out the prettiest orange slices and star anise for decoration.
Fun Fact
The tradition of drinking hot, spiced fruit beverages dates back to ancient Rome. The Romans heated wine with spices to protect themselves from the cold. This custom spread throughout Europe, and in medieval England, it evolved into 'Wassail' – a hot cider or beer that was toasted for prosperity and good harvests.
Best for
Tips
Serve the cider very hot, in ceramic mugs or glasses with a handle. You can add a fresh slice of orange, a few cranberries, or a new cinnamon stick for stirring to each serving. For an extra visual effect, you can moisten the rim of the glass with orange juice and dip it in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
Leftover cider can be stored in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed jar or pitcher for up to 3 days. Before serving, simply warm it slowly in a pot over low heat, without bringing it to a boil. The flavor after reheating may even be more intense.
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