Apple Cider Sauce

With Thanksgiving arriving next week in the midst of a pandemic, families will be forced to gather around a much smaller table to celebrate and feast on an overabundance of wonderful delights. In spite of smaller gatherings, most will continue their cooking traditions and will set out a food-laden buffet table showcasing roasted turkey and all the trimmings. Perhaps a fragrant baked ham will join the proudly displayed turkey.

Personally, I'm not a big ham fan, but when I do serve it, I always accompany it with Apple Cider Sauce. This flavorful, aromatic sauce is the perfect accompaniment to a holiday meal or a simple family dinner. In addition to ham, it serves up nicely alongside roast pork or squash. It can also be reduced to use as a glaze for baking the ham.

Apple Cider Sauce
(Makes about 2 cups.)

• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup honey

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 1 teaspoon chili powder, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice

Apple Cider Sauce

Combine the apple cider, honey, vinegar, and mustard in a  saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes, stirring frequently.

Off the heat, whisk in the butter, chili powder and apple pie spice. Serve warm alongside ham, pork or winter squash.