MENU dorset issue 12 issue 12 | Page 49

Wrap up and get cosy with the warming Winter Spice blend TEA MULLED CIDER Why should coffee have all the boozy fun? Here’s a perfect infusion for chilly winter nights, courtesy of Jo Davies, founder of The Gilded Teapot { } “These dark wintry evenings are calling out for something festive bubbling on the stove, so we are very pleased to welcome our Winter Spice blend back to the tea shop,” says Jo. “Winter Spice is our snug, comforting blend of black tea, cinnamon, a little chocolate, orange and star anise – perfect for wintry nights. And it happens to have many uses. While making a wonderfully warming black tea in its own right, it can be used as a delicious variation on mulling spices. The hint of malt and astringent notes that black tea brings sits perfectly with festive spices and country cider, so here’s a recipe that’s best enjoyed either at home in a big mug, or sipped from flasks on chilly walks. Please remember to always walk and drink responsibly!” Ingredients Method Makes two mugs 1 heaped tablespoon of Winter Spice tea 500ml bottle of still cider (medium or sweet is best, we used the Dabinet from The Purbeck Cider Company down the road) Brown sugar Additional extras: apple juice, stick of cinnamon, slices of apple and orange, a slug of Liberty Fields Apple Aperitif 1. Pour the cider into a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer. 2. Add the tea straight into the pan, along with any extras you’d like, and simmer for 6-10 minutes depending on how strong you’d like the flavour to be. Tip: keep to a simmer and don’t let it boil. That way lies bitterness, which is best avoided. 3. Add sugar and/or apple juice to taste. When your cider is ready, strain through a sieve and enjoy. Variation: For an alcohol-free infusion, use apple juice in place of the cider. www.menu-dorset.co.uk 49