Start by thoroughly preparing the orange. Since you will be using it with the peel, you need to wash it carefully. Scrub it under warm, running water using a vegetable brush, then blanch it in boiling water for about 30 seconds to remove the waxy protective coating and any possible contaminants. Dry the orange with a paper towel. Using a sharp knife, cut the fruit into slices about 0.5 cm thick. Set aside. If you are using ginger, peel it with a small spoon (this is the easiest way) and slice it thinly.
Description
Aromatic, warming, and incredibly atmospheric drink, perfect for chilly autumn and winter evenings. This non-alcoholic mulled cider is based on natural, cloudy apple juice, which is slowly heated with a wealth of spicy seasonings – cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. Its unique character is enhanced by fresh rosemary, whose herbal, forest aroma beautifully complements the sweetness of the apples, along with slices of fresh orange, adding citrus freshness and a hint of bitterness. Visually, the drink is stunning: it has a deep amber color, and the spices and fruits submerged in it are beautifully showcased in transparent cups. It’s an ideal choice for gatherings with family and friends, a festive afternoon tea, or simply a moment of relaxation with a book by the fireplace.
Ingredients (8)
- Sok jabłkowy naturalny, mętny 1000 ml
- Orange 1.3 szt.
- Star anise 1 szt.
- Fresh rosemary 10 g
- 🌿 Przyprawy
- Cinnamon stick 5 szt.
- Whole cloves 1 g
- ✨ Opcjonalne
- wildflower honey 40 g
- Fresh ginger 15 g
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Preparation steps
Choose a medium-sized pot, preferably with a thick bottom to prevent burning. Pour in the entire liter of apple juice. Then add the previously prepared orange slices. Toss all the spices into the juice: two cinnamon sticks, two star anise, and about 8 whole cloves. Finally, add two sprigs of fresh rosemary. If using, also add the ginger slices. Gently stir everything with a wooden spoon.
Place a pot on the stove over medium heat. Slowly heat the mixture until it is very hot and small air bubbles start to appear on the surface – this is a sign that the drink is close to boiling. Immediately reduce the heat to the minimum. Cover the pot with a lid, leaving a small gap, and heat on very low for 20-25 minutes. The goal is for the drink to gently 'simmer' rather than boil vigorously. This allows the spices to slowly release their aromas without losing valuable essential oils.
After 20-25 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Taste the drink and decide if it needs additional sweetness. If so, this is the perfect time to add honey (or maple syrup). Add two tablespoons of honey and stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon until completely dissolved. Cover the pot and let the drink sit for about 5-10 minutes. This short 'resting' time will allow the flavors to blend and harmonize even better.
Prepare heat-resistant mugs or glasses. Using a ladle, carefully pour the hot mulled wine into the containers. To keep the drink clear, you can strain it through a fine sieve to catch the small spices. For each serving, add a fresh slice of orange (you can use those from cooking or prepare new ones) and a small sprig of fresh rosemary for decoration and extra aroma. Serve immediately while hot.
Fun Fact
Mulled drinks have a centuries-old tradition in Europe, dating back to Roman times. The Romans heated wine with spices to protect themselves from the cold during their conquests. This tradition spread across the continent, and each region created its own unique version of the drink, adapting it to local ingredients and preferences.
Best for
Tips
Serve the mulled wine very hot, in thick glasses or mugs that retain heat well. Add a fresh slice of orange and a sprig of rosemary to each serving to enhance the aroma. For the 'adult' version, after heating, you can add 40 ml of dark rum, brandy, or orange liqueur (e.g. Cointreau) to each serving.
Mulled wine can be stored in the refrigerator in a closed container (e.g., a jar) for up to 3 days. Before serving, it should be strained of spices and fruits, and then gently heated over low heat, without bringing it to a boil. Spices left in the liquid for too long can make the drink bitter.
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