Forktionary

Cider

Malus domestica (fermented juice) Beverage, Alcoholic Drink, Fruit Product, Cooking Liquid

Cider Beverage, Alcoholic Drink, Fruit Product, Cooking Liquid

At a Glance

  • Category Beverage, Alcoholic Drink, Fruit Product, Cooking Liquid

The Forktionary Angle

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

Definition

A fermented alcoholic beverage made from apple juice, ranging from sweet to dry, or non-alcoholic sweetened apple juice.

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.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Cider are:

Sweet tart fruity crisp sometimes effervescent tannic (dry ciders)

Chef’s Secret

Reduce a dry cider with a touch of butter and fresh herbs (like sage or thyme) to create a beautiful, tangy sauce for roast pork or chicken.

Best Substitutes

Apple juice

non-alcoholic
Ratio 1:1

White wine

for cooking
Ratio 1:1

Apple cider vinegar + water

for tang
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

For drinking, explore dry vs. sweet varieties. For cooking, an inexpensive dry or semi-dry cider works best.

Culinary Pairings

Pork chicken cheese (especially cheddar) sausages root vegetables apple desserts

Recipes Using Cider

Apple Bread Pudding With Calvados Sauce image
Preparation Course Main Ingredient Fruit

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.

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Autumn Melange Of Pumpkin Vegetables And Fruit image
One Dish Meal Dinner Party Holiday Event Taste Mood

Autumn Melange Of Pumpkin Vegetables And Fruit

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of autumn with this stunning vegetarian braise! Sweet pumpkin and crisp apple mingle with tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, all simmered in a rich apple cider broth. The mellow fall colors and savory-sweet taste are irresistible. Serve this hearty dish alongside crusty whole-grain bread and your favorite wine or warm apple cider for a cozy and unforgettable meal. Perfect for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or a comforting weeknight dinner.

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Apple Pie Made With Boiled Cider image
Pies And Tarts 4 Hours Or Less Fruit Apples

Apple Pie Made With Boiled Cider

Experience the magic of this exceptional apple pie! Three secrets elevate it above the ordinary: rich, intensely flavored boiled cider (or a delicious alternative using frozen apple juice concentrate), a 2-hour baking process for ultimate caramelisation and a tender crust, and the crucial step of letting it cool completely for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. This King Arthur Flour-inspired recipe is a game-changer, producing arguably the best apple pie you'll ever make. The boiled cider adds a depth of flavor unlike any other apple pie. A pint bottle, easily sourced online from various cider mills (Vermont offers the best value!), yields multiple pies. Its versatility extends beyond pie – use this delicious apple syrup as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream! For perfect ease, a KitchenAid mixer or food processor is ideal for the crust.

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Apple Butter image 111
Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Preparation Condiments Etc

Apple Butter

Slow-cooked to perfection, this homemade apple butter recipe bursts with warm autumnal spices and the sweet, tangy flavor of perfectly ripe apples. A delightful spread for toast, biscuits, or even ice cream! Get ready to savor the taste of fall!

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18Th Century Drunken English Somerset Cider Chicken With Honey image 102
Poultry Kid Friendly Occasion Chicken Thighs Legs

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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