This aromatic mix is perfect for simmering in cider or red wine. Packed into little sachets, it also makes a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ ounces cinnamon sticks (about 8 sticks, broken into pieces)
- 4 whole nutmegs, lightly crushed
- ½ cup dried orange peel (chopped)
- ¼ cup dried apple slices (new fruity twist)
- 3 Tbsp dried lemon peel (for brightness)
- ⅓ cup whole allspice berries
- 3 Tbsp whole cloves
- 3 Tbsp crystallized ginger, finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp star anise (new addition for depth and licorice note)
Directions:
- Cut cheesecloth into twelve 6-inch squares. Have twelve 10-inch strings ready.
- Place cinnamon sticks and nutmegs in a plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin until broken into chunks.
- Mix with orange peel, apple, lemon peel, allspice, cloves, ginger, and star anise.
- Spoon about 3 heaping tablespoons into the center of each square and tie securely with string.
- Store in an airtight jar or tin until ready to use.
To mull wine:
- In a medium saucepan, combine ½ cup water and ¼ cup honey (instead of sugar) and heat until dissolved.
- Add 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine and 1 spice bag.
- Cover and warm gently over low heat for 15–20 minutes (don’t let it boil). Remove spice bag before serving.
To mull cider:
- Add 1 spice bag to 8 cups fresh apple cider.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook 25–30 minutes. Remove spice bag before serving.
Each sachet flavors 1 bottle of wine or ½ gallon of cider.
