Start by preparing the orange. Place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp chef's knife to cut off both ends of the fruit. Then, cut the orange in half. Slice one half into thin slices about 0.5 cm thick - these will be used for decoration and to add flavor during cooking. Squeeze the juice from the other half directly into a small bowl. Rinse the rosemary sprigs under cold running water and gently dry them with a paper towel.
Description
Aromatic, warming drink perfect for chilly autumn and winter evenings. Spiced apple cider is a non-alcoholic variation of traditional mulled drinks, popular in many European cultures. Its essence lies in slowly heating natural apple juice with a bouquet of carefully selected spices – cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, which release their deep, enveloping aromas. The addition of juicy orange brings freshness and a slightly citrus note, while a sprig of rosemary cuts through the sweetness with a surprising, forest-like accent. Visually, the drink is stunning – it has a beautiful amber color, and in transparent cups, you can see the floating spices and fruits. Served hot, it not only tastes wonderful but also fills the entire home with the scent of holidays and cozy warmth. It is an excellent alternative to tea or coffee during gatherings with loved ones.
Ingredients (8)
- Sok jabłkowy 100% 1000 ml
- Orange 1 szt.
- Star anise 1 szt.
- Fresh rosemary 10 g
- 🌿 Przyprawy
- Cinnamon stick 5 szt.
- Whole cloves 2 g
- ✨ Opcjonalne
- wildflower honey 30 g
- Brandy or dark rum 100 ml
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Preparation steps
Prepare a large pot with a thick bottom, with a capacity of at least 2 liters. Pour in the entire liter of apple juice. Add the juice of half an orange and the sliced pieces. Toss in all the spices: two cinnamon sticks, about 10 cloves, two star anise, and one washed sprig of rosemary. Keep the second sprig for decoration.
Place a pot on the stove over medium heat. Slowly heat the mixture, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until it is very hot and small bubbles begin to form on the surface (just before boiling). When this happens, immediately reduce the heat to the minimum. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving a small gap, and let the drink gently simmer for about 15-20 minutes. During this time, the spices will release their aromas, filling the kitchen with a wonderful scent.
After 15-20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Now is the time to add optional ingredients. If you want to sweeten the drink, add two tablespoons of honey and mix thoroughly until completely dissolved. Taste and add more if needed. If you are making the adult version, pour in 100 ml of brandy or dark rum and stir again.
Prepare mugs or glasses made of thick, heat-resistant glass. Using a ladle and a small strainer, pour the hot drink into the mugs. The strainer will catch small bits of spices. For each serving, add one slice of orange from the pot and, if desired, a fresh cinnamon stick or star anise for decoration. Garnish the rim of the mug with a fresh sprig of rosemary. Serve immediately while hot.
Fun Fact
The tradition of drinking hot, spiced beverages during the winter dates back to Roman times. The Romans heated wine with spices to protect themselves from the cold. In medieval Europe, these drinks, known as 'Wassail' in England or 'Glühwein' in Germany, became an integral part of holiday markets and celebrations.
Best for
Tips
Serve the cider in tall, transparent glasses or ceramic mugs that retain heat for a long time. Add a fresh slice of orange and a small sprig of rosemary to each serving. For an additional visual effect, you can moisten the rim of the glass with orange juice and dip it in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon.
If you have any leftover drink, you can store it in the refrigerator in a closed jar or bottle for up to 3 days. Before serving again, gently heat it in a pot over low heat, making sure it doesn't boil. Remember to remove any spices and fruits that could give it a bitter taste before storing.
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