Mulled Wine with Indonesian Cinnamon

Prep: 5 mins Cook: 30 mins Difficulty: Easy Serves: 6
kcal fat saturates carbs
215 0g 0g 22g
sugars fibre protein salt
18g 1.5g 0.5g 0.01g

Mulled Wine with Indonesian Cinnamon

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm beverage spiced just right, especially when it’s Mulled Wine with Indonesian Cinnamon. This recipe takes me right back to chilly Montana evenings, where the rugged landscape pairs perfectly with a mug of something steaming and aromatic. The use of Indonesian cinnamon elevates this traditional drink to something wonderfully special, offering a subtly exotic twist that quite frankly, you just won’t find in other mulled wines.

A Connection to the Land

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is its deep connection to the natural world. Growing up amid the vast, open spaces of Montana, I was always attuned to the changing seasons, and this recipe is my nod to the colder months. The inclusion of apples and cranberries speaks to fall harvests, while the spices – cinnamon, cloves, and star anise – bring a warming, festive feel that invigorates the senses. Mulled wine is akin to dishes like hot apple cider or spiced chai; it’s a liquid hug that wraps you in layers of flavorful warmth.

Health Benefits

An additional joy of this recipe is knowing it’s not just delicious but also packed with health benefits. Red wine, in moderation, is known for its heart-healthy resveratrol. The cloves and nutmeg bring their own sets of antioxidant properties, while the oranges and lemons are excellent sources of Vitamin C. And let’s not forget Indonesian cinnamon – not only does it provide a wonderfully complex spice, but it also has anti-inflammatory properties, perfect for keeping those winter colds at bay. Learn more about the benefits of cinnamon here.

So, why do I love Mulled Wine with Indonesian Cinnamon? It’s not merely a drink; it’s an experience. Whether you’re gathering by the fireplace with loved ones or curling up with a good book, this mulled wine offers a sense of ritual and comfort. It’s a culturally rich recipe that can easily become a staple in your winter repertoire, just as it’s become in mine. Try serving it alongside dishes like venison stew or huckleberry pie for a Montana-inspired holiday feast that warms both body and soul.

Give this recipe a try, and you might just find yourself falling in love with it, as I did. The aromatic spices, the fruitiness of the wine, and that hint of Indonesian cinnamon – it’s a combination that never fails to bring warmth and joy to the coldest of days.

What You’ll Need

  • 1 bottle (750 ml) red wine
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup brandy
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 2 sticks Indonesian cinnamon (or regular cinnamon sticks)
  • 4 whole cloves
  • 3 star anise pods
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1 apple, cored and sliced
  • 6 fresh cranberries (optional, for garnish)
ALLERGENS: Sulfites, Honey

Method

Step One

In a large pot, combine the water, honey, and brown sugar. Place over medium heat and stir until the honey and sugar have completely dissolved.

Step Two

Add the sliced orange, lemon, apple, Indonesian cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise pods, and freshly grated nutmeg to the pot. Stir to combine.

Step Three

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the red wine and brandy. Stir the mixture and heat until it is warm, but not boiling. This should take about 20-30 minutes. Do not let it boil, as this will cook off the alcohol.

Step Four

Once the mixture is warm and fragrant, remove from heat. Let it steep for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step Five

Strain the mulled wine into a heatproof pitcher or punch bowl, removing the fruit slices and spices. Serve the mulled wine warm, garnished with fresh cranberries if desired.

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