Steamy Sip #7: Warm Grapefruit Cider

First of all, Happy Christmas.  That said, I know no one is probably checking blogs today.  That's as it should be.

But I hope that doesn't mean this amazing Steamy Sip will be ignored.

I realize this week I'm using terms like "tea", "cappuccino", and now "cider" very loosely.  I didn't look them up to ensure proper usage.  There just aren't that many terms for warm beverages so I'm just calling them what I want.  In this case, "warm juice" neither sounds right nor does this unique spicy nectar justice.

When she saw I was doing Steamy Sips week, my friend Marna sent me this recipe.  Here is what she said:

I love this time of year for many reasons.  All the yummy citrus is one of the great things.  I love grapefruit, but not all of my family does, and I am not one who can eat grapefruit for breakfast day after day.  I bought a big bag of Texas grapefruits, because the price was good.  I have been wondering how to use them all before they spoil.  This warm "tea" was just the answer I was looking for.

 Warm Grapefruit Cider (print recipe)
2 cups fresh ruby red grapefruit juice (about 4 medium)
2 to 4 T honey (raw, if you have it)
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 tsp allspice berries

In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients with 1/2 cup water.  Bring to a boil over high heat; strain and discard solids.  Serve with a grapefruit segment or a strip of zest. 

Recipe from the Martha Stewart Show, Jan 2008 via my friend Marna