Mulled Apple Cider
Serves 4

5 cups apple cider
2 cinnamon sticks, cracked
8 allspice berries
6 whole cloves
1 strip orange peel, about 2 inches long and 1/2 inch wide
4 thin orange slices (optional)
4 cinnamon sticks (optional)

In a small heavy saucepan (preferably non-metallic), place the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, allspice, cloves and orange peel, and bring to a boil over moderately high heat. Adjust the heat so that the mixture barely bubbles, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Strain the cider mixture into 4 mugs and put an orange slice and cinnamon stick in each mug, if you like.