From Thanksgiving to New Years, it is that time of year when holiday get togethers, dinners and office parties are abound. One drink that has not lost it's lustre is a mulled drink. A mulled drink is a drink that uses a combination of spices and dried fruit in a base of apple cider, other drinks or juices. As it gently simmers the house is filled with fragrant cinnamon, clove and anise!
This non-alcoholic version combines spices of cinnamon, cloves, star anise and cardamon. Other recipes may also use allspice, and nutmeg; and less frequently star anise, peppercorn or cardamom. It also usually includes dried or fresh fruit for sweetness.
Best served hot, this recipe uses pure apple cider, not apple juice.
Spiced Apple Cider
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
6 cups of apple cider juice
6 cloves
4 cardamon pods, pestled
2 cinnamon sticks
3 dried figs, chopped
3-4 thin slices of orange and lemon
1 star anise clove
2 tbsp of either hibiscus flowers or rosehip buds (can be found at healthfood stores in loose or ready tea bag).
Optional: 1 inch of fresh chopped ginger
Preparation:
Allow the spices and herbs to marinate in the apple cider for 10 minutes before heating. You may also place the spices in a large tea/spice bag if you have one. This step saves you from straining the herbs and spices out of the pot at the end. Place all ingredients in a pot and bring to a gentle boil. Turn down heat to medium low and allow a low simmer to help mull the spices for 15 minutes. Strain. Serve warm or hot. Double recipe if needed.
