How to Cook With Washington Cider

Washington is definitely an apple lover's paradise, with more than half of the farm-to-market apples in the country coming from that state's orchards. Washington apples are sold in every corner of the United States and in more than 40 countries. They make some of the world's best cider, an important ingredient in many delicious recipes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Mix a splash of Washington apple cider to teriyaki or soy sauce for a fabulous zesty steak marinade. Allow the meat to soak in the cider marinate for at least 24 hours. The acid content of the apples will tenderize the meat and add a unique summery flavor.
2. Spice up a pork and rice dish by simmering the meat and rice with Washington cider. This simple gourmet quality meal can be made all in the same pan, simply replace the water with apple cider. Inexpensive and easy, your guests will think you slaved in the kitchen for hours.
3. Sweeten bland vegetables by cooking them directly in Washington apple cider. Simply add all of your vegetables to a pot and cover with cider, simmering until thoroughly cooked and straining the cider. This recipe is an easy way to make vegetable dishes more interesting, and is particularly delicious with potatoes and carrots. You may also try this method when making stuffing for pork chops, a meat often served with apples.
4. Poach oysters in Washington cider for unique twist to an old seafood dish. Bring a pot of cider to a boil and add butter and garlic. Place the oysters in the boiling cider mixture for 2 minutes before straining and opening the shells. Even those who do not like oysters can learn to love this tasty treat.
5. Simmer sausages in Washington cider with a dash of soy sauce for an interesting breakfast change. Place the sausages in a pan to simmer and add cider to prevent sticking.
6. Make truly fabulous fish by baking with Washington cider. Place the clean fish in an oven proof pan and cut three long slices along the belly. Pour in enough cider to almost cover the fish, and bake. Pull the fish out of the oven every 15 minutes or so and baste with the cider in the pan. This recipe is scrumptious with mackeral, trout and bass.

Tips & Warnings

• These are just a few of the many ways you can cook with Washington cider. Cider is an extremely versatile ingredient, so experiment and enjoy.