As the winter months approach, there’s nothing quite like a warm, spiced cup of mulled wine to cozy up with. Martha Stewart’s mulled wine recipe is a classic, and with a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting drink to enjoy on a chilly evening. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of mulled wine, the benefits of drinking it, and of course, provide a step-by-step guide on how to make Martha Stewart’s mulled wine recipe.
A Brief History of Mulled Wine
Mulled wine has been a popular wintertime drink for centuries, dating back to ancient Rome and Greece. The practice of heating and spicing wine was a way to make it more palatable, as wine was often quite rough and unrefined in those times. The Romans, in particular, were known to heat their wine with spices and honey to create a warm, comforting drink.
As the centuries passed, mulled wine became a staple in many European countries, particularly in Germany, France, and Italy. Each country developed its own unique twist on the recipe, using local spices and ingredients to create a distinct flavor profile.
The Benefits of Drinking Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is not only delicious, but it also has several health benefits. The spices and ingredients used in the recipe have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe a sore throat and ease cold and flu symptoms. The antioxidants present in the wine can also help to boost the immune system and protect against heart disease.
In addition to its health benefits, mulled wine is also a great way to warm up on a cold winter’s night. The combination of the warm liquid and the spices can help to increase blood flow and circulation, leaving you feeling cozy and relaxed.
Martha Stewart’s Mulled Wine Recipe
Martha Stewart’s mulled wine recipe is a classic, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of red wine (Martha recommends using a full-bodied wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 6 cloves
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of brandy (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the sliced orange and lemon, cinnamon sticks, and cloves.
- Add the red wine and brown sugar to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the wine is hot but not boiling.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 20-30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the wine has reached your desired temperature.
- Strain the wine into heatproof cups or mugs, discarding the spices and fruit slices.
- If desired, add a splash of brandy to each cup for an extra kick.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the most of Martha Stewart’s mulled wine recipe:
- Use a good quality wine: The type of wine you use will greatly impact the flavor of your mulled wine. Choose a full-bodied wine with a rich, fruity flavor.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of spices used in the recipe. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add more spices or use a combination of spices such as nutmeg and ginger.
- Add a splash of citrus: A squeeze of fresh orange or lemon juice can add a bright, citrusy flavor to your mulled wine.
- Try different types of sugar: Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the mulled wine, but you can also try using honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Wine for Mulled Wine
Choosing the right wine for mulled wine can be a bit overwhelming, especially with so many options available. Here are a few tips to help you choose the perfect wine:
- Look for a full-bodied wine: A full-bodied wine with a rich, fruity flavor will hold up well to the spices and heat of the mulled wine.
- Choose a wine with moderate tannins: Tannins can give the wine a bitter, astringent flavor, so it’s best to choose a wine with moderate tannins.
- Consider the price: You don’t need to break the bank to make a great mulled wine. Look for a wine in the $10-$20 range for a good balance of quality and price.
| Wine | Price | Tannins | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabernet Sauvignon | $15-$25 | Moderate | Rich, fruity, with hints of spice and vanilla |
| Merlot | $10-$20 | Soft | Smooth, approachable, with flavors of plum and blackberry |
| Pinot Noir | $15-$30 | Light | Light-bodied, with flavors of cherry and earth |
Serving and Enjoying Your Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is best served hot, in heatproof cups or mugs. You can garnish each cup with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange, and serve with a variety of snacks such as cheese and crackers, or spiced nuts.
Here are a few ideas for snacks to serve with your mulled wine:
- Cheese and crackers: A classic combination that pairs perfectly with the rich, fruity flavor of the mulled wine.
- Spiced nuts: A warm, spicy snack that complements the flavors of the mulled wine.
- Chocolate truffles: A sweet, indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with the rich, fruity flavor of the mulled wine.
Conclusion
Martha Stewart’s mulled wine recipe is a classic, and with a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and comforting drink to enjoy on a chilly winter’s evening. Whether you’re looking for a way to warm up on a cold night, or simply want to try a new recipe, mulled wine is a great option. So why not give it a try? Gather a few friends, heat up a pot of mulled wine, and enjoy the warm, spicy flavors of this delicious winter drink.
What is Mulled Wine?
Mulled wine is a warm, spiced wine drink that is typically served during the winter months. It is made by heating red wine with spices and sweeteners, such as cinnamon, cloves, and sugar, to create a flavorful and comforting beverage. Mulled wine is often associated with European holiday traditions, but it can be enjoyed at any time of the year.
Martha Stewart’s mulled wine recipe is a variation of this traditional drink, featuring a blend of spices and sweeteners that add depth and warmth to the wine. The recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit individual tastes.
What are the ingredients in Martha Stewart’s Mulled Wine recipe?
Martha Stewart’s mulled wine recipe includes a combination of red wine, spices, and sweeteners. The ingredients include red wine, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice, and sugar. The recipe also calls for a few optional ingredients, such as brandy or other spirits, that can be added to give the drink an extra boost of flavor.
The ingredients in Martha Stewart’s mulled wine recipe are carefully selected to create a balanced and flavorful drink. The spices add warmth and depth to the wine, while the sugar and orange slices provide a touch of sweetness. The recipe is easy to customize, so feel free to experiment with different spices and sweeteners to create your own unique flavor.
How do I make Martha Stewart’s Mulled Wine?
To make Martha Stewart’s mulled wine, start by combining the red wine, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice in a large pot. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the wine is hot and the spices are fragrant. Add the sugar and stir to dissolve, then reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 20-30 minutes.
As the mulled wine simmers, the flavors will meld together and the spices will infuse into the wine. You can serve the mulled wine hot, garnished with additional orange slices and spices if desired. You can also add a splash of brandy or other spirits to give the drink an extra boost of flavor.
Can I make Martha Stewart’s Mulled Wine ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Martha Stewart’s mulled wine ahead of time. In fact, the flavors will meld together and the spices will infuse into the wine even more if you make it ahead of time. To make the mulled wine ahead of time, combine the ingredients in a large pot and heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the wine is hot and the spices are fragrant.
Let the mulled wine cool to room temperature, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve. To reheat the mulled wine, simply place it in a pot and heat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the wine is hot and the spices are fragrant.
Can I customize Martha Stewart’s Mulled Wine recipe?
Yes, you can customize Martha Stewart’s mulled wine recipe to suit your individual tastes. The recipe is a great starting point, but you can experiment with different spices and sweeteners to create your own unique flavor. Some options for customization include adding a splash of citrus juice, such as lemon or orange, or using different types of spices, such as nutmeg or ginger.
You can also experiment with different types of wine, such as white wine or sparkling wine, to create a unique flavor. Additionally, you can add a splash of brandy or other spirits to give the drink an extra boost of flavor.
Is Martha Stewart’s Mulled Wine suitable for a crowd?
Yes, Martha Stewart’s mulled wine recipe is suitable for a crowd. The recipe makes a large batch of mulled wine, which can be served to a group of people. You can easily double or triple the recipe if you need to serve a larger crowd.
To serve a crowd, simply heat the mulled wine in a large pot and keep it warm over low heat. You can also serve the mulled wine in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, which can help to keep the drink warm for a longer period of time.
Can I serve Martha Stewart’s Mulled Wine at a holiday party?
Yes, Martha Stewart’s mulled wine is a great choice for a holiday party. The drink is warm and comforting, making it perfect for cold winter nights. The spices and sweeteners in the recipe add a festive touch to the drink, making it a great choice for holiday gatherings.
To serve Martha Stewart’s mulled wine at a holiday party, simply heat the drink in a large pot and keep it warm over low heat. You can serve the mulled wine in mugs or heatproof glasses, garnished with additional orange slices and spices if desired.