This is my idea of the most delicious hot beverage for the cold weather and holidays. You can keep it in a pot on the back of the stove for ladling out – or use a crock pot to keep it warm. Leave out the alcohol, if you wish. I perfected this recipe years ago when I was a caterer – it’s fragrance fills the house with a delightful, cozy "spirit" – ENJOY!
MAKES 8 GENEROUS SERVINGS
4 cups, apple cider or apple juice
1/2 cup, brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon, ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon, ground cloves
1/8 teaspoon, ground allspice
salt to taste (a pinch or so will bring out the flavors!)
1 orange, sliced thin
1/2 lemon, sliced thin
Garnish (optional - see below*)
In a non-reactive pot (stainless steel, ceramic, or enamel-coated metal), bring the cider just to a boil; immediately reduce heat, add the brown sugar and cook, stirring, over low heat until the sugar is dissolved without boiling.
Remove from heat; add all remaining ingredients.
Float sliced orange and lemon on top. Allow flavors to infuse for a half hour or more, if time is available. [May be made ahead and allowed to stand at cool room temperature for up to four hours. Refrigerate for longer storage.]
To Serve: Reheat the grog (if it has cooled) over low heat and keep warm for serving, but do NOT allow the grog to boil.
Ladle hot grog into cups, punch cups or mugs.
*Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg, if desired.
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