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| Apple cider |
Making apple cider at home involves a simple process that combines apples with water and sugar (optional) and allows natural fermentation to occur. Here's a basic recipe for homemade apple cider:
Ingredients:
- Apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties, about 10-12 apples)
- Water
- Sugar (optional, to taste)
- Cinnamon sticks, cloves, or other spices (optional)
Instructions:
1. **Wash and Chop the Apples:**
- Thoroughly wash the apples to remove any dirt or residues.
- Core and roughly chop the apples into small pieces. You can leave the peel on for added flavor and color.
2. **Place the Apples in a Large Pot:**
- Transfer the chopped apples into a large pot.
3. **Add Water:**
- Pour enough water into the pot to cover the apples.
4. **Optional: Add Sugar and Spices:**
- If you prefer a sweeter cider, add sugar to taste. Start with around 1/2 cup and adjust based on your preference.
- Optionally, add spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, or any other spices you enjoy. This step adds depth to the flavor.
5. **Simmer:**
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the apples are soft and mushy.
6. **Mash the Apples:**
- Mash the softened apples in the pot using a potato masher or the back of a spoon. This helps release more flavor.
7. **Strain the Mixture:**
- Once the apples are well-mashed, strain the mixture using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the liquid from the solids. You can also use a press or juicer for this step.
8. **Cool:**
- Let the liquid cool to room temperature.
9. **Fermentation (Optional):**
- If you want natural fermentation, transfer the liquid to a glass container with an airtight lid. Leave it at room temperature for a few days to a week, allowing the cider to ferment. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.
10. **Refrigerate:**
- If you achieve the desired flavor or prefer a non-alcoholic version, refrigerate the cider to stop the fermentation process.
11. **Serve:**
- Serve your homemade apple cider chilled. You can garnish with a cinnamon stick or slice of apple for added flair.
Enjoy your freshly made apple cider! Adjust the sweetness and spice levels to suit your taste preferences.

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