This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Exeter Cornwall chapter.
The holiday season is here, and a warm glass of mulled wine or cider is the best way to celebrate. These are sure to get you in the festive spirit!
Mulled Wine:
You could just use a simple mix from a supermarket, but the best milled wine is fresh! This recipe was adapted from Jamie Oliver’s recipe, here.
Ingredients:
- Peel and juice of 1 large orange
- Peel of 1 lemon
- 1 stick cinnamon
- 100g caster sugar
- 3 whole cloves
- 1 tsp grated / ground nutmeg
- 1 vanilla pod, halved lengthways / 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1 star anise
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 (regular sized) bottle red wine
Optional:
- 60ml brandy
Method:
- Over a medium heat add the sugar, orange & lemon peel and the juice of the orange.
- Throw the cloves, cinnamon stick, vanilla pod, bay leaf and grated nutmeg into the pan.
- Stir in just enough red wine to cover the sugar. (Not all, or you’ll cook off the alcohol).
- Let this simmer until the sugar dissolves, then bring to the boil for about 4-5 minutes, or until you’ve got a beautiful thick syrup.
- Turn the heat down to low, add the star anise and the rest of the wine. Ready to strain (through a sieve) and serve after around 5 minutes.
- If you’re using it, add the brandy off the heat.
Mulled Cider:
Mulled cider is so easy, and so easy to adapt – add any of your favourite spices and enjoy when it’s freezing cold outside to warm you up!
Ingredients:
- 1L dry cider
- 1 orange, zested & cut into half-slices (like triangles)
- zest 1/2 lemon
- 325ml apple juice
- 3 cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon grated / ground nutmeg
- 1 vanilla pod, halved lengthways / 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Caster sugar / honey
Optional:
- 60ml rum (spiced / dark)
- 30ml calvados (add with cider / spices)
Method:
- Using a large pan, warm the cider on a low heat.
- Add the cloves, nutmeg, vanilla pod (or extract), orange & lemon zest and apple juice. (Also add the calvados now if you’re using it)
- Bring to the boil, then turn down to simmer for 10 minutes and add the orange slices.
- Add the sugar / honey a little bit at a time to taste – don’t make it too sweet!
- If you’re using it, add the rum off the heat.
Photos: Mulled wine from rpavich, Mulled cider from Louise Vansleve)