- Can I use pre-cooked beetroot?
- Yes, but raw beetroot tastes fresher and has a more intense colour. If using pre-cooked, cook for less time.
- It tastes very earthy.
- Add more orange juice or a little lemon; acids neutralise the earthy character.
Spiced beetroot and apple mulled cider
The pairing of earthy beetroot and fresh apple is one of gastronomy's finest marriages. In this drink, the beetroot's deep, sweet taste provides a perfect base for spiced cider, while dressing the glass in a magical crimson hue. Don't be afraid of beetroot: alongside spices and orange, it loses its 'vegetable' nature and provides a full-bodied, fruity punch experience.
Ingredients
500
ml
Apple cider (non-alcoholic or alcoholic)
50
g
Raw beetroot (peeled)
50
ml
Fresh orange juice
30
g
Honey
1
pc
Cinnamon stick
1
pinch
Ground nutmeg
100
ml
Cold double cream
2
pcs
Thin beetroot slice (for garnish)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Fine grater
- Medium saucepan
- Fine sieve
- Rubber gloves (due to beetroot)
Allergen Information
Milk
Instructions
1
✓
Put on gloves and grate the raw beetroot on the fine holes of the grater.
Tip: Finely grated beetroot contacts the liquid over a larger surface area, transferring flavour and colour faster. (Diffusion).
2
✓
In a saucepan, mix the cider, grated beetroot, orange juice, honey, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg).
Tip: The acidity of orange juice helps stabilise the beetroot's vivid red colour, which would turn brown in an alkaline environment.
3
✓
Heat the mixture on medium heat for approx. 10-15 minutes until it starts steaming and the beetroot releases its colour.
Tip: Do not boil vigorously, as alcohol (if present) evaporates, and flavours dull.
4
✓
Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes, then strain through a fine sieve.
Tip: During resting, flavours meld. When straining, don't squeeze the pulp too much if you want a clear, translucent drink.
5
✓
Whip the cream.
Tip: You can flavour it with a little orange zest too.
6
✓
Pour the hot drink into glasses, spoon whipped cream on top, and stick in a raw beetroot slice for garnish.
Tip: Beetroot chips also make a great garnish.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 500 ml Apple cider (non-alcoholic or alcoholic)
- 50 g Raw beetroot (peeled)
- 50 ml Fresh orange juice
- 30 g Honey
- 1 pc Cinnamon stick
- 1 pinch Ground nutmeg
- 100 ml Cold double cream
- 2 pcs Thin beetroot slice (for garnish)