We have an abundance of apples in our neck of the woods and, therefore, we have an abundance of wonderful, homemade apple cider.  In fact, I’m considering purchasing a cider press one of these years so I can make my own apple cider.  If you have never tried REAL apple cider, you need to treat yourself to a mug full.  The flavor is a great deal shall we say “deeper” than the store bought stuff.  If you get a chance, try it. 

So, here I am with my jugs of apple cider, enjoying it simply by warming it in a pan on top of the stove and sipping it hot out of my favorite mug.  That is certainly a little bit of Heaven, but I’m wondering what else I can make with apple cider. 

One recipe I saw recently, but of course have lost, is using apple cider as a glaze for ham or turkey.  I think it should be simple enough to figure out.  Has anyone tried that sort of apple cider based glaze?  I wonder if you’d have to add any brown sugar or molasses to cut some of the tartness of the cider.  Or how about using apple cider as a marinade?  Interesting, yes?

Then of course there are the spiced cider drinks to try over the Holidays.  I do have one that I like to make and share with my guests.  I’ll share it here:

1 quart of apple cider
1/2 teaspoon whole cloves
1/2 teaspoon whole allspice
2 inch stick cinnamon
dash ground nutmeg
pinch of salt
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)

Put everything in a sauce pan and bring to boil slowly, then turn down and simmer for 15 minutes.  Pour through sieve to remove spices, and serve.  I put a half slice of orange on top of the mug for extra color and sweetness.  Some people add brown sugar during the cooking to sweeten up the cider, but I like mine tart.

So, I put it to you dear readers, what have you used apple cider for other than sipping? Or do you have a more unusual Mulled Cider drink that you could share?  I’ve got a lot of apple cider here and am anxiously awaiting some ideas.