Easy Hot wine Gluhwein Mulled Wine Spiced wine for winter Christmas night

red wine

🥗Healthier: non-alcoholic red wine

💰Cheaper: white grape juice

Non-alcoholic options provide a similar flavor profile without alcohol.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey offers a natural sweetness while brown sugar is often less expensive.

cinnamon sticks

🥗Healthier: ground cinnamon

💰Cheaper: cinnamon powder

Ground cinnamon is more accessible and can be used in smaller quantities.

star anise

💰Cheaper: fennel seeds

Fennel seeds can mimic the flavor of star anise at a lower cost.

Start with one whole orange and cut it into pieces.

Add 2 pieces of star anise and a pinch of cinnamon.

Grate fresh nutmeg into the mixture for more intense flavor.

Add 4-5 cloves to the pot.

Instead of sugar, add maple syrup for sweetness, adjusting to taste.

Pour in 1 whole bottle of affordable red wine, preferably not sweet.

Add 1.5 cups of water to the mixture.

Let it simmer on medium-low heat, stirring only once as it doesn't need much stirring.

Press down on the orange pieces to release some juice into the mixture.

Once the alcohol has evaporated, add Grand Marnier for additional flavor, turning off the heat afterward.

Strain the mixture to remove spices and orange pieces using a strainer.

Serve in heatproof glasses, garnishing with a star anise on top for presentation.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: