Monday, October 10, 2011

Hot Apple Cider

As I was walking through the fruit section of the grocery store, I noticed more and more apples. Yes, it is that wonderful season of fall and the delicious apples.

One of my favorite items to serve is hot apple cider. Here is a quick and easy recipe for you. I am sure you will like it.
Ingredients
3 parts apple juice*
1 part water
1 cinnamon stick
ginger, thin slice (optional)
lemon zest, several thin slices (optional)
several whole cloves – too many makes it bitter (optional)
Directions
1. Pour juice and water into a tall pot with a lid and turn on heat to high. You can see that a lot of the ingredients are entirely optional.
2. Prepare spices and add to pot.  I put everything but the cinnamon stick in a tea infuser. Otherwise, you have to strain the cider or pick out small chunks one by one.
3. When pot reaches a boil, turn to the lowest setting. Let simmer about 15 minutes. Add thin slices of lemon for decoration if desired.
4. Remove infuser. Ladle into mugs and enjoy.

*When picking out apple juice, read the label and try to get juice without added sugar – often called “apple cider” instead of “apple juice” by some companies. Unfiltered juice (which looks a little foggy) is my favorite when I can find it.

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