Glühwein – German-style mulled wine

This recipe comes from CUESA's culinary intern, Julia Allenby.

There’s always a glühwein (“glow wine”) stand at German Christmas markets (“Weihnachtsmarkt”), where one can get a mug full of sweet warmth to carry and sip as they stroll through the crowds on a crisp December day.

Makes about 4 six-ounce servings.

1 orange
6 whole cloves
1 cup water
2 cinnamon sticks
4 cardamom pods, split
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 bottle (750 ml) fruity red wine (such as Zinfandel, Beaujolais, or Merlot)
1 apple, cored and diced
¼ cup brandy, rum, or kirsch (optional)

1. Cut orange into four quarters. Push the cloves into the rind one of the quarters. Peel the remaining oranges and cut them into small dice. Set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine orange quarter, water, cinnamon, cardamom, and sugar. Bring to a boil and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture and return the liquid to saucepan.
4. Add the red wine, reserved orange, and apple. Bring to a simmer, but do not boil.
5. Just before serving, add the optional liquor.

Serve hot in special Glühwein glasses or mugs.