Spiced Apple Cider

Directions

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   1. Use a juicer to juice all the apples and set aside.
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   2. Toast cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg lightly (over low heat) in a non-stick pan for 1 minute to bring out the fragrance of the spices.
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   2. Pour the freshly squeezed apple juice in the pan and turn up the heat to medium.
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   3. At boiling point, stir in brown sugar and reduce the heat to a simmer.
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   4. Let simmer for a good 30 minutes and squeeze in juice of half a lemon right before turning off the heat.
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   5. Strain the cider through a sieve and serve it immediately (or let it cool before adding ice).
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   6. For the alcoholic version, just add 11/2 shots of vodka to every glass.
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   Easy steps to make fancy apple cups to amuse your guests! I choose Washington apples (Red Delicious) for its gleaming red (think Snow White) and narrower bodies.
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   1. Slice off the top of the apple and scoop out the apple cores using a melon baller, leaving at least 1/4 inch of apple on the sides, and 1/2 inch on the bottom.
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    2. Slice a sliver off the bottom of each apple so that they sit up straight and don't wobble.
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    3. Rub lemon juice over the apple flesh to prevent it from browning.
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    4. Pour in warm or chilled spiced apple cider to fill each cup and serve immediately.