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Hard Cider

Hard cider is a refreshing alcoholic beverage made from the fermented juice of apples. It is known for its crisp, fruity flavor and typically has an alcohol content ranging from 4% to 6%. Produced worldwide, hard cider has gained popularity in recent years as a flavorful alternative to beer and wine. The process of making hard cider involves fermenting apple juice or apple cider with the help of yeast, converting the sugars into alcohol. It can be consumed in a variety of styles, from sweet to dry, and still or sparkling. Hard cider is commonly enjoyed chilled and often paired with savory dishes and cheeses.
#2
IN MALT BEVERAGES & COCKTAILS
56
CAL / 100G
$0.14
AVG / OZ
hard cider
100%
CARBS
0%
FAT
0%
PROTEIN
Hard Cider FAQ
Hard cider is a popular beverage made by fermenting the juice of apples. While in principle it sounds easy to make, cooking with hard cider or even brewing your own at home can become a complex task if you're unfamiliar with the process. The most common questions when cooking with this ingredient usually center around the type of cider to use, and if it can be swapped with apple cider vinegar or apple juice. Where a lot of people go wrong is in assuming that all cider is the same. The truth is, there is a wide variety of cider; the taste can vary greatly, from sweet and fruity to dry and tart. If a recipe calls for hard cider, it is best to use exactly that, not apple juice or apple cider vinegar. To get the most out of your hard cider, use it in cooking similar to how you would use wine. It can provide a wonderful depth of flavor in many dishes like stews, marinated meats, and sauces. The alcohol in cider evaporates during the cooking process, leaving behind a unique flavor that subtly enhances your dishes without overpowering them. Little known tips? One of the most helpful is to use hard cider as a great replacement for chicken or vegetable stock in your recipes. Also, it is a great base for cooking up mussels or other shellfish. And let's not forget, a hard cider glaze can do wonders on your roast.
Can I substitute hard cider for apple cider vinegar in a recipe?
Is hard cider gluten free?
Can I use apple juice instead of hard cider in a recipe?
Can I brew my own hard cider at home?
What foods go well with hard cider?
What's the difference between apple cider and hard cider?
What kind of hard cider is best for cooking?
Can you make hard cider from store bought apple juice?
Can children eat food cooked with hard cider?
Can I use hard cider instead of white wine in a recipe?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does hard cider expire?
Unopened bottles of hard cider typically have a shelf life of up to two years if stored correctly, although they're often at their best within the first 6-9 months. The expiration date printed on the packaging is a useful guide but remember that the flavor can deteriorate over time, so fresher is typically better. Once opened, hard cider should be consumed within 2 weeks for best quality, though it can last up to 2 months in the fridge before becoming unsafe to drink.
How do you tell if hard cider is bad?
There are several telltale signs that your hard cider has gone bad. An unusual or pungent smell is often the first clue. If it smells like wine or has a vinegary aroma, it's likely spoiled. The cider may also develop a fuzzy mold, especially around the top of the bottle or in the cider itself. If you notice any cloudiness, rope-like strands, or slimy blobs in your cider, it's best to play it safe and not drink it.
Tips for storing hard cider to extend shelf life
• Always store your hard cider upright to prevent it from oxidizing quickly. This will also minimize its contact with the cap or cork which can taint the cider's flavor over time. • Store hard cider in a cool and dark place like your pantry or refrigerator. The ideal storage temperature is between 40° and 70°F. Excessive heat or light can ruin the cider's flavor and potentially lead to spoilage. • After opening a bottle of hard cider, reseal it tightly with the original cap or a wine stopper and put it back in the fridge immediately. This will slow down the oxidation process and maintain the cider's crisp, fresh taste for as long as possible. • Don't let it sit at room temperature after you've opened it - this will speed up the spoilage process. Drink it as soon as you can for best quality!
EXPIRES WITHIN
10 - 15
MONTHS
Equivalents
Health Info
Macros
21g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
PALEO
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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