www.cookingwithmykid.com
by Anna Fletcher
One of the best things about Fall and Winter is the seasonal foods and drinks. From hearty chili and green bean casserole to warm pumpkin pie and creamy yams, it seems that when the weather gets colder, the food gets more homey and delicious. And as for the drinks: hot chocolate (with marshmallows, duh), nutmeg-y eggnog, hot spiced wine and the most outstanding Fall/Winter drink because it literally tastes like Christmas in a cup, mulled cider. It’s tangy, it’s sweet, it’s spicy and it warms your belly like you just swallowed a couple of hand warmers. This cold-weather drink is perfect for when you’re hiking the trails and need a warm pick-me-up, hanging out at home with a blanket and a good book or lounging around a bonfire in your hammock . Plus it’s super easy to make! You just need these few ingredients…
- 16 cups apple cider or apple juice (unfiltered)
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 2 orange (peels and juice)
- 8 whole cloves or 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 8 whole allspice berries
- 6 star anise
Throw all ingredients into a saucepan and bring to an almost boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer for 30 min – 3 hrs (depending on how patient you are!) Keep in mind that the longer you leave it on the stove, the thicker, spicier, more orangey it will be!
Ladle it into mugs or mason jars and serve hot. If you’re feeling extra fancypants, garnish with orange slices. And maybe add a bit of spiced rum?? YUM!
