Apple Fennel Quiet Corner

Fennel seeds give apple juice a gentle anise flavor that makes the familiar fruit taste a little different. A small squeeze of lemon sharpens the finish without turning the cup sour. Lightly crush the seeds to release their aroma, then strain them out before drinking. The apple should remain the clearest flavor. This is a light, warmly aromatic evening cup that doesn't need cinnamon, particularly appealing when you want a change from the usual apple-and-spice combination.

Ingredients

• 6 oz Water
• 2 oz Apple juice
• 1/8 tsp Fennel seeds, lightly crushed
• 1/4 oz Lemon juice

Make it

1. Prepare the fruit as listed, removing all stones, cores and hard stems.
2. Put the water and all remaining ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes until any fresh fruit has softened.
3. Mash softened fruit gently, then strain if you prefer a smoother cup. Remove whole peel, herbs or ginger pieces. Serve comfortably warm.

Benefits

Apple juice and fennel seeds · refreshing fluids

The water does a simple, useful job in this apple juice, fennel seeds, and lemon combination: it contributes to hydration while stretching a familiar orchard flavor into a full drink.

A warmer side of lemon

The apple juice and fennel seeds carries a clean citrus sharpness from lemon, giving you a fragrant warm drink to enjoy in place of an alcoholic nightcap.