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Sidra Asturiana Escanciada

Serves 4 to 6 Beverage vegetarian, Beverages

Sidra Asturiana Escanciada

Sidra Asturiana Escanciada is a staple in the everyday life of Asturias, a region known for its lush landscapes and robust culinary traditions. This cider is enjoyed casually, often savored at home where the recipe is so familiar, it rarely graces the pages of a cookbook. It's poured with a flourish, the liquid arcing through the air before settling into wide glasses, a method unique to the region.

The taste is crisp and slightly tart, with the natural cider offering a refreshing palate cleanse. The squeeze of a lemon wedge enhances its bright notes, making each sip a lively experience. This cider is poured generously, reflecting the warmth and hospitality of Asturian homes.

Ingredients

  • 2 bottlesAsturian natural cider — cool cellar temperature
  • 4wide cider glasses
  • 1lemon wedge — to wipe the rims, optional

Method

  1. Begin by chilling the two bottles of Asturian natural cider in the refrigerator for at least a few hours. This ensures the cider is at the optimal temperature for escanciado, which enhances its natural flavors and aromas.
  2. Once chilled, prepare a clean, wide-mouthed pitcher. Open the first bottle of cider and pour it into the pitcher from a height of about 30 centimeters (12 inches). This aerates the cider, releasing its natural effervescence and aroma. Repeat with the second bottle.
  3. Allow the cider to rest in the pitcher for about 10 minutes. This brief resting period lets the cider settle and develop its full bouquet, essential for the authentic Asturian experience.
  4. Before serving, cut a lemon wedge. This will be used as a garnish to add a subtle hint of citrus, complementing the cider's natural tartness.
  5. To serve, hold a wide cider glass at an angle and pour the cider from the pitcher from a height of about 30 centimeters (12 inches) into the glass. This technique, known as escanciado, is traditional and crucial for creating the right amount of fizz and enhancing the cider's flavor.
  6. Garnish each glass with a lemon wedge. Serve immediately to enjoy the cider at its peak effervescence and flavor.
Cover of Authentic Spanish Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Spanish Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Spanish Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Spanish volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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