Name: Mulled Wine
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: . Fruits and Juices; 1 medium orange; . Beverages; 1 750-ml bottle dry red wine, such as merlot; 2 cups apple cider (plus more as desired); . Spices; 10 whole cloves; 8 whole star anise; 6 whole cinnamon sticks (plus more for serving); . Optional Additions; 2 to 4 tablespoons ginger juice (to taste (optional)); Rosemary sprigs (for garnish); Cranberries (for garnish, optional)

Warm up your evenings with this delightful mulled wine that's perfect for cozy gatherings! With the rich aroma of spices and the zesty brightness of orange, it's sure to lift your spirits.

The Magic of Spices

Combining spices like cloves, star anise, and cinnamon creates a comforting blend that fills your home with a holiday cheer. This part’s so satisfying!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this mulled wine in your favorite mugs, and don’t forget to add those lovely garnishes for that extra festive touch!

Ingredients

Fruits and Juices:
1 medium orange
Beverages:
1 750-ml bottle dry red wine, such as merlot
2 cups apple cider (plus more as desired)
Spices:
10 whole cloves
8 whole star anise
6 whole cinnamon sticks (plus more for serving)
Optional Additions:
2 to 4 tablespoons ginger juice (to taste (optional))
Rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
Cranberries (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Orange:
Step 1

- Peel and Slice: Use a vegetable peeler to peel 3 to 4 strips of zest off half of the orange. Slice the remaining half into thin rounds and set aside for garnish.
Combine Ingredients:
Step 2

- Simmer the Wine: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the red wine, apple cider, and the juice from the zested ½ orange. Add the orange zest, cloves, star anise, and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and simmer on low for 20 to 30 minutes. Be careful not to let it come to a boil.
Step 3

- Adjust Seasoning: Stir in the ginger juice, if using. Taste, and if you like your mulled wine sweeter, add more apple cider. If you like it more spiced, add more whole spices and simmer for 15 more minutes.
Serve:
Step 4

- Strain and Garnish: Remove from the heat, strain, and pour into a pitcher or mugs. Serve with the reserved orange rounds and cinnamon sticks. Garnish with rosemary sprigs and cranberries, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 200, Fat: 0g, Carbs: 20g, Protein: 0.5g

Cooking techniques

Simmering is key here; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully without boiling away the alcohol.

Variations or substitutions

Feel free to switch up the spices! Add nutmeg or cardamom for a different twist on flavor.

Storage tips

Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving again.

Notes

Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in!