Warm Up Your Winter

One of my favourite things to make in Winter is slow cooked apple cider. Not only is it deliciously perfect to drink on those cold days; it contains some pretty amazing health benefits.

Apples

A great source of vitamin C and soluble fibre which can aid in digestion and boost the immune system.

Orange

With a high vitamin C content, oranges also contain antioxidants making it a great support for the immune system with its anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties.

Cinnamon

Many of us are already of aware of its ability to help lower blood sugar levels, but did you know the essential oils contained in cinnamon bark hold anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties? Add that to this spice's antioxidant and prebiotic benefits and cinnamon is a great weapon against those winter coughs and colds.

Cloves

Another popular spice, cloves have traditionally been used to reduce pain and inflammation as well as regulate blood sugar levels and boost the immune system. Adding cloves can help reduce headaches and congestion as well as relieve digestive issues.

Nutmeg

Similar to cloves, nutmeg can help reduce pain and relieve digestive issues, however it can also be protective to the health of our brain thanks to its ability to boost brain chemicals such as serotonin, norephinerine and dopamine. The effects of which can support our mood and memory.

Ginger

Ginger works by increasing blood flow to our digestive system and is often used to settle nausea. It can also work to relieve indigestion and abdominal pain. Its powerful anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties help to boost our immune systems and fight off colds and flu during Winter.

This delicious concoction of flavours is very easy to make, all you need is a slow cooker. Check out the recipe below:

Ingredients

8-10 apples (I use Pink Lady as they are naturally sweet, and I cut them to remove the core)

1 large orange (cut into quarters)

2-3 whole pieces of cinnamon bark

1 teaspoon of whole cloves

1 whole nutmeg

1 inch of fresh ginger cut into slices (I tend to peel the skin off before slicing)

Method

1. Place all ingredients into the slow cooker and fill with water (do not over fill, I usually fill to about an inch from the top of the pot)

2. Cook on low for about 10-13 hours (I always cook on low and leave it overnight) or Cook on high for about 5-6 hours

3. Once done, you can mash the fruit if you prefer a cloudier cider, and add any sweeteners you may want, to your taste. I personally never mash it, nor do I add any sweeteners as I find it is sweet enough.

This is perfect as a warm drink to wake up to, but it will also keep in the fridge for about 5 days and is just as delicious as an iced beverage.