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Autumn Simmering Spice Blend

This spice blend combines unexpected ingredients like allspice, star anise, and dried orange peel, simmered gently with vegetables and cider to create a fragrant broth. It produces a warm, aromatic liquid with a complex bouquet that infuses soups or stews with seasonal depth and warmth.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: seasonal
Calories: 50
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water as a base
  • 1 cup apple cider for sweetness and depth
  • 1 dried orange peel dried orange peel adds citrus aroma
  • 1 star anise pod star anise for a floral, licorice note
  • 1 allspice berry allspice spicy warmth
  • 1 small carrot chopped
  • 1 small celery stalk chopped

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Fine mesh strainer

Method
 

  1. Chop the carrot and celery into small, even pieces to release more flavor.
  2. Combine the broth and apple cider in a medium saucepan and place over medium heat.
  3. Add the chopped carrot, celery, dried orange peel, star anise, and allspice to the simmering liquid.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and let it cook uncovered for about 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.
  5. Occasionally stir or gently swirl the pot to help release the aromas of the spices.
  6. Once the broth has developed a fragrant aroma and the vegetables are soft, remove the star anise, dried orange peel, and allspice berries from the pot.
  7. Strain the broth through a fine mesh strainer into a clean container for a smooth, grit-free broth.
  8. Pour the hot, fragrant broth into bowls, ready to serve as a base for soups, stews, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Notes

Adjust spice quantities to taste, and experiment with adding other seasonal vegetables. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and skip any animal-based ingredients.