Traditional Mulled Cider

• Cinnamon2 cinnamon sticks
• Clove6 whole cloves
• Ginger1-inch piece fresh ginger, thinly sliced
• Orange1 orange, thinly sliced
• Star anise2 star anise
• Brown sugar2 tbsp light brown sugar (or to taste)
• Apple cider1 litre good quality apple cider (hard or non-alcoholic)

How to Make It

• 1

  Carefully wash and thinly slice 1 orange, ensuring you have a few extra slices for garnish. Slice a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger very thinly.

• 2

  In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or pot, combine the 1 litre of apple cider, 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar, the orange slices, 2 cinnamon sticks, 6 whole cloves, and 2 star anise. Add the thinly sliced fresh ginger.

• 3

  Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Slowly bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, but be careful not to let it boil. Boiling can cause the alcohol (if using hard cider) to evaporate and can diminish the delicate flavours of the spices.

• 4

  Once simmering, reduce the heat to the lowest setting and let the mulled cider steep for at least 15-20 minutes. This allows the spices to fully infuse the cider, deepening the aroma and flavour. Taste and adjust sugar if desired.

• 5

  Keep the mulled cider warm on the lowest heat setting or transfer it to a slow cooker on the 'warm' setting if serving a crowd. For optimal flavour, try to serve it within 1-2 hours of making.

• 6

  To serve, ladle the warm mulled cider into heatproof mugs or glasses. Garnish each serving with a fresh orange slice and an extra cinnamon stick for a touch of elegance and continued aroma. Enjoy this traditional British winter warmer responsibly!