Steaming Apple Cider

There is nothing that smells like the holidays more than a pot of hot mulled apple cider simmering away on the stove top. When I worked at a bed & breakfast back in North Carolina, this time of year we would always have an electric pot out for guests to help themselves and to send the scent wafting through the house.

Making apple cider is not a difficult endeavor. Start by purchasing a jug of cold apple cider from the market. In a large pot, pour in the cider and add a piece of peeled ginger, some sliced lemons and oranges with the peel, a couple of whole cinnamon sticks and some whole cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer for 15 minutes to drink or partially cover and simmer for hours to fill the house with a lovely smell.

To serve, strain the mix into mugs and sever warm. For an adults only version, add a shot of brandy or rum. This is a great beverage to end to a dinner party instead of coffee or just sip while chatting with friends. Cheers!