"Mulled" Coffee

Out of curiosity, instead of tossing the mulling spices strained out of the hot cider, I decided to experiment with some leftover coffee. It worked well, reminiscent of pumpkin pie, kinda sorta.  I might try adding the spice directly to the grounds when I make a fresh pot.

Mulled Coffee
Leftover Coffee
Pinch of Salt (if not already in the coffee)
Beef Gelatin (approx. 1 TBS per serving)
Mulling Spice
Cane Sugar to taste

Fresh Milk or Cream

1. Add ingredients in order to cold coffee and let sit for a minute or so while the gelatin absorbs the liquid. Save the milk for later.
2. When the gelatin is ready, heat on medium low for about 15 minutes. stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the serving cups or mugs with some hot water in each.  Let sit until the coffee is hot. (If your kitchen is a cool as mine right now, this is mandatory to prevent tepid coffee.)
4. Fill the mugs halfway with milk or a quarter full of cream and add strained coffee.

Spiced Apple Cider "Custard" (non dairy, GF)

Q. What happens to a hot drink with gelatin in it when it cools down?

A. It wiggles and jiggles!

Yesterday's Hot Cider became a wonderful, creamy textured jello that leaned to the custard or pudding mouth feel.  The spice was a little strong when cool, but it was still a wonderful surprise.  I think the solids in the juices make the difference.

Simply Delish

Hot Spiced Apple Cider

Nothing says fall to me, like apple cider...and nothing warms the bones on a crisp day like Hot Spiced Apple Cider.

Here's my version:

3 parts Apple Cider
1 part Mango Juice (Cranberry, Grape, Orange work too)
1 TBS gelatin per serving
Mulling Spice-cinnamon chips, orange rind, whole allspice, whole cloves, cinnamon oil, orange oil
Large pinch of Salt
Sugar/Cream of tartar to taste
Dash of vanilla
A small dollop of coconut oil

This maybe heated in a glass or stainless steel pot on the stove, wood stove or in a slow cooker.

1. Add the ingredients in order
2. When the gelatin is completely soaked, turn on heat.
3. Use low heat with a lid and forget about it for awhile OR
4. Use high heat and stir slowly, but consistently.
5. Gelatin is dissolved when coconut oil is completely melted.
6. Simmer for at least 15 minutes, strain and serve.

Friday Food