Mulled cider
Our ancestors employed any method that might encourage their apple trees to be fruitful - singing and banging drums is as good an idea as any. It would seem rude to have such a party without some of the fruits of the tree and, since Twelfth Night is in January, a warm drink is bound to be better than a cold one.
Preparation 10mins Cook time 30mins Servings 4
Ingredients
- 1 litre still cider
- 1 glass of good apple juice
- 6 cloves
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 200ml sloe gin
- 1 or 2 sliced oranges
- honey or sugar to taste
- 1 log fire
Method
To make enough to serve 4, pour 1 litre still cider into a saucepan and add a glass of good apple juice if you like.
Add 6 cloves and 4 cinnamon sticks, cover and bring slowly to the boil.
As soon as it starts to simmer turn off the heat and add 200ml sloe gin (optional, but highly recommended) and 1 or 2 sliced oranges.
Taste, and add a little honey or sugar if you want.
Serve straight away... by a log fire.