Mulled wine

Mulled Wine with Orange and Cinnamon – A Winter Full of Warmth and Flavors

Winter is a magical season, and nothing compares to the warm and comforting aroma of mulled wine. This traditional drink, often enjoyed in the company of loved ones, brings not only warmth but also moments of joy and good cheer. Today, I will present you with a simple and delicious recipe for mulled wine with orange and cinnamon, perfect for chilly winter evenings.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 1.5 liters of white wine (preferably natural 100% from Panciu - Vrancea)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- Zest from 3/4 of a large orange
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks (or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon)
- 1 teaspoon of special mulled wine spice (for example, from Fuchs)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

The first step in this culinary adventure is to ensure you have all the ingredients at hand. Choose a quality white wine, preferably from a region known for its natural wines. The wine from Panciu is an excellent choice due to its delicate flavors that blend perfectly with the other ingredients.

The orange zest is essential for adding a citrusy and fresh taste to the mulled wine. Carefully peel the orange, making sure to obtain only the colored part of the peel, avoiding the white part which is bitter.

Step 2: Cooking the mulled wine

In a large pot, pour in the white wine and add the sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring gently to dissolve the sugar. At this stage, the flavors will begin to reveal themselves.

Add the orange zest and cinnamon sticks. If you choose to use ground cinnamon, it is recommended to add it later to avoid clumping.

Then, add the special mulled wine spice. This will add an extra layer of flavor and complexity to your drink.

Step 3: Heating

Keep the mixture over medium heat, but do not let it boil vigorously. The mulled wine should be warm, not hot, to preserve the delicate flavors. Let it heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Serving

When the mulled wine is ready, strain the mixture to remove the orange zest and cinnamon sticks. Pour it into heat-resistant mugs or glasses. You can decorate each serving with a slice of orange or a cinnamon stick for a festive look.

Serving suggestions

To transform this drink into an even more enjoyable experience, serve the mulled wine alongside homemade spiced cookies or a platter of cheeses and nuts. A perfect combination for evenings spent with friends or family.

Nutritional benefits

Mulled wine, consumed in moderation, can offer certain benefits, such as relaxation and stress reduction. Additionally, cinnamon is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The orange provides a boost of vitamin C, essential for strengthening the immune system during the cold season.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use red wine instead of white wine?
Of course! Red wine brings a richer flavor and a more intense color. Choose a dry red wine for the best results.

2. Is it necessary to use sugar?
You can adjust the amount of sugar or use alternative sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, depending on your preferences.

3. Can I add other spices?
Certainly! Star anise, cloves, or ginger can add an interesting and exotic note to the mulled wine.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can also add other fruits, such as sliced apples or pears, which will caramelize slightly in the warm mixture. These will not only add a delicious flavor but also provide an interesting texture to the mulled wine.

In conclusion, mulled wine with orange and cinnamon is a simple recipe but with a huge impact on the festive atmosphere. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your taste. Enjoy every sip with your loved ones and savor the magic of winter!