Hot Mulled Cider

It’s cloudy and cool outside and it’s almost October. I have no shame in pulling out the spices and cider to make a hot drink for the season. One of my favorite times of the year are these first brisk days with leaves beginning to change and pleasant days replacing the heat and humidity. I want to curl up with a good book or movie with a cup of hot cider close by. This recipe from Cooking Light is perfect for the fall.

Hot Mulled Cider

4 cups apple cider

1/4 cup fresh orange juice

10 black peppercorns

6 whole cloves

5 whole white cardamom pods, crushed

4 star anise

3 (1/4-inch) thick lemon slices

3 cinnamon sticks

1 (1/2-inch) piece peeled fresh ginger, thinly sliced

 

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat; bring to a simmer.
2. Cook for 30 minutes.
3. Strain cider mixture through a fine sieve over a bowl, and discard solids. Serve cider hot.