Many German town centers have street markets with stalls selling cookies, arts and crafts, wooden toys, and other festive items during the Christmas season. Almost every street corner seems to boast Bratwurst and Glühwein stalls. Light a roaring fire and pour yourself a small glass of warm, spicy red wine. Below is a basic recipe, but vendors will offer additional flavorings such as elderberry cordial or a shot of dark rum in Germany. At home, spike it, too, if you choose.
Heat your Glühwein in a large saucepan on the stove or in a large jug in the microwave, but don't let it boil, or the alcohol will evaporate if you want a less alcoholic drink, mix in apple juice or water.
Glühwein Recipe
Makes 6 servings
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1 bottle full-bodied red wine
1 small lemon
6 orange slices
10 cloves
3 cinnamon sticks
4-6 Tablespoons sugar
3 ounces brandy
Preparation
Pour the wine into a large saucepan. Cut the lemon into quarters. Stick the cloves into the rind of one quarter. Slice the rest thinly. Add the lemon quarter and orange slices to the pan with the cinnamon and sugar. Heat slowly until hot, but do not allow to boil. Add brandy and serve in heatproof glasses or small cups. Place a metal teaspoon in the glass before adding the hot liquid to prevent the glass from breaking.
