Aromatic apple cider gently simmered with ginger, spices, and citrus for a warming, comforting beverage.
# Components:
→ Cider Base
01 - 6 cups apple cider (preferably unfiltered and unsweetened)
→ Spices and Aromatics
02 - 1 large cinnamon stick
03 - 1 (2-inch) piece fresh ginger, sliced
04 - 4 whole cloves
05 - 2 whole star anise
06 - 1/4 teaspoon whole black peppercorns (optional)
→ Citrus
07 - 1 orange, sliced
→ Sweetener
08 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, to taste (optional)
# Preparation steps:
01 - In a large saucepan, combine the apple cider, cinnamon stick, sliced ginger, whole cloves, star anise, optional black peppercorns, and orange slices.
02 - Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
03 - Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and allow the cider to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and infuse.
04 - Taste the cider and stir in maple syrup or honey if a sweeter beverage is desired. Ensure the sweetener dissolves completely.
05 - Carefully strain the infused cider through a fine-mesh sieve to remove all solid ingredients, ensuring a smooth beverage.
06 - Ladle the hot spiced cider into mugs. Garnish with an extra orange slice or cinnamon stick, if desired.
