Cyser, a combination of mead and cider, is a delicious drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. Creating your own cyser at home is a relatively simple process, and this recipe will help you make the best cyser you’ve ever tasted. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, you’ll have a delicious beverage that’s perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon.
Table of Contents:
Ingredients:
- 5 gallons of apple cider
- 15 pounds of honey
- 1 package of champagne yeast
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 vanilla bean
- 1 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon of allspice
- 1 teaspoon of cloves
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Heat the apple cider in a large pot until it reaches 160°F.
- Remove the pot from heat and add in the honey. Stir well until fully combined.
- Add the cinnamon stick, vanilla bean, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves to the pot, stirring well to combine.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Pour the mixture into a fermenting bucket and add the champagne yeast.
- Seal the fermenting bucket and let it sit for 2-4 weeks, or until the mixture stops bubbling.
- Rack the cyser into a carboy and leave it for 3-6 months, or until it’s clear.
- Bottle the cyser and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
Cyser is best served cold, so be sure to chill it before drinking. It’s also a great accompaniment to spicy foods and cheeses. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use it as a marinade for chicken or pork.
Tips and Notes:
- Be sure to use a high-quality honey for best results.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices to find your perfect flavor combination.
- Store the cyser in a cool, dark place to prevent it from spoiling.
- If you want a sweeter cyser, you can add more honey after the initial fermentation.
- Make sure to sanitize all fermentation equipment before using to prevent contamination.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of honey?
A: Yes! Different types of honey will give your cyser a unique flavor profile, so feel free to experiment.
Q: Why does the mixture need to cool to room temperature before adding the yeast?
A: Yeast can be killed if it’s added to liquid that’s too hot, so it’s important to let the mixture cool down before adding the yeast.
Q: How do I know when the cyser is ready to bottle?
A: The cyser is ready to bottle when it’s clear and there are no more bubbles in the carboy.
Q: Can I carbonate the cyser?
A: Yes! You can carbonate the cyser by adding a small amount of sugar to each bottle before capping.
Q: How long can I store the cyser?
A: Properly stored cyser can be enjoyed for several years.
Wrapping Up
Creating your own cyser at home is a fun and rewarding process. With this recipe, you’ll have a delicious beverage that’s perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or sharing with friends and family. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices or types of honey to find your perfect flavor combination. Just be sure to follow the instructions closely and sanitize all fermentation equipment before using. Cheers!
