With the holidays approaching, we know things this year will be different. Especially for those who have cancelled travel vacation plans, we’re with you in that 2020 might not be our ideal way to celebrate. But if there’s anything else the year has taught us, it’s that good food has a powerful way of making things feel right again. And that’s what we’re here for, to give you the kind of food that’ll still warm your hearts and homes. I’m going to share these easy and cozy recipes that will look sophisticated in the eyes of your family, friends or coworkers. Maybe then we can help add some extra cheer into donning that ugly Christmas 2020 sweater.
First things first, booze. Mulled wine is a traditional winter-time drink that involves heating up your favorite red with some aromatic spices and throwing in some citrus or stone fruit so you can also drink your vitamins. This recipe is ridiculously easy, and has some advantages over the giant coffee mug filled with 2 glasses of wine after a long day. It’s warm. It looks fancy on your Insta, or if you’re having some friends over for dinner. It smells better than a Bath & Body Works triple wick and won’t burn your house down. And it’s also great for soothing a throat tickle or a little congestion.
MULLED WINE RECIPE
Servings: 2-4 people
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- (At least) 1 bottle of cheap red wine, dry or sweet to your preference. I’d choose a cab or pinot, but don’t overthink it. You really can’t mess this up.
- Aromatic spices, preferably in whole form: 2-4 cinnamon sticks, a small handful of cloves, 3-5 star anise (strong flavor, looks really cool), plus a pinch of nutmeg or allspice in powder form if you have it.
- Fruit slices: oranges are a must, peaches or cherries work great, lemons are wonderful in moderation, berries taste great but do lose structural integrity if cooked for too long
- Honey, a couple spoonfuls, 1/4 cup to taste
- Brandy, 1 cup
INSTRUCTIONS
USING A STOVETOP? Using a stove top to make mulled wine will give you faster results if you need to whip this up quickly, but it will also evaporate faster.
- Combine ingredients in a large saucepan, and bring almost to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer on low for a least 10 minutes.
USING A SLOW COOKER? Using a slow cooker will take longer, but it will keep the spiced wine warm and easy to access for guests throughout the day
- Combine ingredients, cover, and cook on low 4-6 hours, or high 1-3 hours.
Serve this warm holiday drink in a cute earthenware mug, garnish with a fresh slice of orange and a cinnamon stick. Extra-spike with your favorite liqueur (think Chambord or Cointreau). Mulled wine has a strong personality and is great to serve before or after dinner, as your guests are showing up or as you’re loading the dishwasher. My recommendation is to sip on your Mulled wine as you make a dish to fill you up. My family’s always enjoyed this Hungarian Mushroom Soup recipe as part of our Christmas Eve meal. Hope you enjoy!
Written by Chef Olivia Gover
