German Recipes: GLÜHWEIN (Spiced Mulled Wine)
Glühwein (literally: Glow Wine) is a German holiday tradition often served at the Christmas Markets. It is prepared from red wine, which is heated and spiced with cinnamon sticks, cloves, citrus fruit and sugar. Almonds or raisins are often added to the Scandinavian versions, though not usually to the German ones. In some cases, fruit wines such as blueberry or cherry are used. The oldest Glühwein tankard is documented in the high noble German and first Riesling grower of the world, Count John IV. of Katzenelnbogen around 1420.
GLÜHWEIN
(Hot Mulled Wine)
1 bottle of dry red wine (750 ml)
1 lemon and/or orange
2 sticks of cinnamon
3 cloves
3 tablespoons of sugar
some cardamom or ginger (optional)
additional alcohol such as rum, vodka, schnapps (optional!)
Heat the wine in a pot - DO NOT BOIL. Cut lemon/orange into slices and add to the wine. Add cinnamon, cloves, sugar and a little cardamom or ginger (optional). If using other alcohol, add now. Heat everything for about 5 minutes - do not boil - and let stand for about an hour so flavors can mix. Before serving, reheat and strain. Serve in prewarmed glasses or mugs. Serves 2-3.