Beverage, Cooking Liquid | Vegan Gluten Free

Cider

Malus domestica (fermented) Allergen-Free
cider

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Rosaceae
  • Primary Cuisine European, American
  • Seasonality Fall (harvest), Year-Round (fermented)
  • Source Apples

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond the glass: harnessing the nuanced acidity and fruitiness of cider in marinades, braises, and glazes."

Definition

Fermented apple juice, ranging from dry to sweet, used as a refreshing beverage or culinary liquid for braising, sauces, and marinades.

Sensory Profile

TasteTart, Fruity, Sweet (if sweet cider), Slightly Sour (if dry cider), Alcoholic (if hard cider)
TextureLiquid, Crisp
AromaApple, Fermented, Yeasty, Fruity
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Alcohol Content (Hard Cider)

Typically 4-8% ABV.

Culinary Application

Excellent deglazing agent and braising liquid.

Global Production

UK, Ireland, and France are major producers.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 cup (240ml)
Calories50 kcal
Total Fat0g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0g
Total Carbohydrate4g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars3g
Calcium5mg
Iron0.1mg
Potassium50mg

Chef’s Secret

Reduce cider by half before adding to sauces or braises to concentrate its apple flavor and acidity, enhancing the dish without adding excessive liquid.

Substitutions

Best Match

Apple Juice + Apple Cider Vinegar

1 cup apple juice + 1 tbsp ACV for 1 cup dry cider

Mimics the fruity and acidic notes, non-alcoholic.

White Wine

1:1

Good for deglazing and braising, provides acidity and complexity, but different fruity notes.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth (with touch of sugar/ACV)

1:1

For savory applications where liquid volume and some savoriness are needed, less fruity.

Apple Cider Vinegar (diluted)

1 part ACV to 3 parts water/broth

For strong acidic notes and apple flavor, but lacks sweetness and body.

Buying Guide

Hard cider for alcoholic, unfiltered apple cider for non-alcoholic. Check for added sugars.

Flavor Pairings

Pork Chicken Apples Onions Sage Thyme Cheeses (cheddar brie).

Recipes Using Cider

18Th Century Drunken English Somerset Cider Chicken With Honey image 169
Dinner Party Occasion Roast Chicken Breasts

18Th Century Drunken English Somerset Cider Chicken With Honey

Transport yourself to 18th-century England with this decadent Somerset Cider Chicken recipe! Hailing from the heart of scrumpy country, this dish uses the region's famed cider (a surprisingly potent ingredient!) to create unbelievably tender and flavorful chicken. The sweet honey complements the tart cider perfectly, resulting in a complex and unforgettable flavor profile. Easy to bake and incredibly rewarding, this recipe is perfect for a cozy night in. Serve with steamed greens and fluffy mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes for a truly authentic experience.

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Apple Bread Pudding With Calvados Sauce image 144
Cuisine 4 Hours Or Less Cuisine Grains

Apple Bread Pudding With Calvados Sauce

Elevate your dessert game with this decadent Apple Bread Pudding! Featuring perfectly caramelized apples and a rich, unforgettable Calvados sauce, this recipe is a true masterpiece. The sauce is so divine, it's almost sinful to add ice cream or cream (but feel free to indulge!). Using high-quality apples is key – their flavor will shine through in every bite. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

See Complete Recipe