Introduction
Mulled Cider is the quintessential cozy drink that warms the soul and fills the air with the fragrant scent of spices. Perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings, this cocktail brings the essence of autumn and winter into your glass. With its origins tracing back to ancient times, mulled cider has been a beloved beverage across various cultures, often symbolizing hospitality and warmth.
Historically, mulled cider was enjoyed by the Romans, who would heat wine with spices to fend off the winter chill. This tradition traveled through Europe, eventually evolving into the cider-based drink we know today. Its popularity soared in England, where it was commonly served during Christmas celebrations and other winter festivities.
A fun fact about mulled cider is that it was often referred to as 'wassail' in medieval England, a term derived from the Old Norse phrase 'ves heil,' meaning 'be healthy.' This drink was traditionally consumed during wassailing, a ritual intended to ensure a good apple harvest the following year.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Mulled Cider, gather these simple ingredients that blend together to create a rich, aromatic drink:
- 9 Fresh Eggs: Use fresh eggs for the best texture and flavor. They add a creamy, smooth body to the cider.
- 4 tbsp Powdered White Sugar: Powdered sugar dissolves easily and sweetens the cider without leaving any graininess.
- 64 oz Cider: Choose a high-quality cider for a robust apple flavor. This is the heart of your mulled cider.
- 0.25 nutmeg Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg offers a warm, spicy aroma that complements the cider beautifully.
Instructions
Crafting a Mulled Cider is straightforward, but requires a bit of attention to detail to achieve that perfect balance of flavors. Here's how to do it:
- Beat the whites and yolks of the eggs separately, mixing sugar with the yolks.
- Pour cider into a skillet and set on fire.
- Mix the egg whites and yolks together and beat thoroughly.
- When the cider boils, pour it onto the egg mixture, add nutmeg, and stir rapidly.
Tips
- Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps them blend more smoothly with the other ingredients.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a cinnamon stick or a few cloves to the cider as it heats.
- Be careful when setting the cider on fire. Use a long match or lighter to avoid burns, and ensure the flame is controlled.
- Serve the mulled cider in heatproof mugs to keep it warm longer and enhance the cozy experience.
Conclusion
Mulled Cider is more than just a drink—it's an experience that brings people together, evoking memories of laughter, warmth, and festive cheer. Its simple yet rich blend of ingredients makes it an easy choice for any occasion, whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a quiet night by the fire.
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Mulled Cider recipe adapted from Jerry Thomas' Bartenders Guide by Jerry Thomas.
