A winter classic, infuses red wine with spices like cinnamon and cloves. Simmered to aromatic perfection, it's a cozy embrace in a cup, a timeless tradition that warms hearts and adds a touch of seasonal magic to chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
- Red wine (750 ml)
- 1 sliced orange
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
- 8-10 whole cloves
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 2 star anise
- 1 vanilla bean, split (or 1 tsp. vanilla extract)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the orange and gather the whole cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and vanilla bean.
- Combine the Ingredients in a Pot: In a large saucepan or pot, pour in the red wine. Add the sliced orange, brandy, honey/sugar, cloves, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and the split vanilla bean.
- Warm the Mulled Wine: Heat the mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Be cautions not to boil the wine to preserve the alcohol content.
- Infuse the Flavors: Let the mulled wine simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, allowing the spices and flavors to meld. Stir occasionally.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the mulled wine and adjust the sweetness if needed by adding more honey or sugar.
- Strain and Serve: Once the flavors have infused to your liking, remove the whole spices and orange slices by straining the mulled wine into a serving bowl or individual mugs.
- Garnish and Serve Warm: If you'd like, garnish with a twist of orange peel and a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch.
- Enjoy!
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other spices like nutmeg to satisfy your tastebuds! This recipe is sure to fill your home with the delightful and cozy aromas of the holiday season!