Hot Spiced Cider

Recipe from China Millman. This will help break the ice on a chilly New Year’s Day.

• 1 half-gallon apple cider
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 8 whole cloves
• 2 whole star anise
• 1/4 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
• 2 inch knob fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2-to-3-inch piece orange or lemon peel, pith removed
• Bourbon or rum if desired

Pour cider into a medium pot. Heat to boiling, then reduce to a very low simmer (no more than a lazy bubble or two). While it comes to a boil, wrap seasonings in cheesecloth and tie with kitchen twine (this is optional but makes it easier to take them out). Place seasoning packet in apple cider. Mostly cover and simmer for 30 minutes to an hour, or until apple cider has reached desired level of spice. Can serve hot or chilled. Add a shot of bourbon or rum to a 6-ounce pour of cider for a delicious seasonal cocktail.

Makes about 10 6-ounce drinks.

Per serving: 94 calories; 0 g fat (0 g saturated fat; 0 percent calories from fat); 24 g carbohydrates; 0 mg cholesterol; 6 mg sodium; 0 g protein; 0.2 g fiber.