Homemade Apple Cider

Instructions

1. 1

   Quarter the Apples Mixed Varieties (no need to peel or core), quarter the Orange and Lemon. Add all the fruit to a large Pot.

2. 2

   Add the Cinnamon Sticks, whole cloves, Allspice Berries, Black Peppercorns (if using), Star Anise (if using), and Ground Nutmeg to the Pot.

3. 3

   Pour in enough Water to cover the fruit by about 1 inch — roughly 10 cups. Do not add the Brown Sugar yet.

4. 4

   Bring the Pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, until the Apples Mixed Varieties are completely soft and breaking apart.

5. 5

   Use a Potato Masher or the back of a large Wooden Spoon to thoroughly mash all the fruit in the pot. This releases more flavor and color into the liquid.

6. 6

   Add the Brown Sugar and stir to dissolve. Continue simmering uncovered for another 30 minutes to let the flavors concentrate.

7. 7

   Set a Sieve over a large Mixing Bowl or second Pot. Ladle the cider through the strainer, pressing gently on the solids with the back of a Wooden Spoon to extract all the liquid. Discard the solids.

8. 8

   For an extra-clear cider, strain a second time through the Sieve lined with a piece of cheesecloth.

9. 9

   Taste the cider and adjust sweetness by stirring in more Brown Sugar, one tablespoon at a time, if desired. Serve hot in mugs, optionally garnished with a Cinnamon Stick and an Apple Slices.