If you’re a wine lover, then there’s a good chance you enjoy mulled wine during the winter months. This festive beverage is typically made with red wine, spices, and orange juice. However, did you know that there are many variations of mulled wine? In this blog post, we will explore ten surprising mulled wine recipe ingredients that can be used to make mulled wine. So, if you are looking for a new recipe to try this winter, read on!
Mulled wine spice ingredients: What to add to my winter drink?
Star anise
While most drinks contain typical mulled wine recipe ingredients like red wine, cinnamon, and cloves, some recipes also call for less common supplements such as star anise. This fragrant spice adds a unique flavor to mulled wine, and it also provides a variety of health benefits. Star anise is rich in antioxidants, which can help to protect cells from damage. It is also a good source of iron, essential for maintaining healthy blood cells. In addition, star anise has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable ingredient for those with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. So if you’re looking to add a special touch to your mulled wine this holiday season, don’t forget to include star anise.
Brown sugar
Mulled wine is a wintertime favorite, and while many people know that it includes red wine and spices, a few other ingredients are often used to give it a unique flavor. One of these ingredients is brown sugar. Brown sugar helps balance the red wine’s tartness and gives the drink a slightly sweet taste. Besides, it can also help deepen the mulled wine’s color.
Citrus peel
If you’re looking for a new mulled wine recipe to try this winter, consider adding citrus peel to the mix. While it may seem like an unusual ingredient, a citrus peel can add a lot of aroma to mulled wine. The oils in the peel will help to release the wine’s flavors, and the acidity can help to balance out the sweetness of the other ingredients. Citrus peel can also add pleasant notes to mulled wine’s flavor, making it even more inviting on a cold winter’s day.
Brandy
Mulled wine is a wintertime favorite for many people, and for a good reason. The combination of red wine, spices, and fruit creates a warming drink perfect for sipping on chilly evenings. But did you know that brandy is also often added to mulled wine? Brandy is a distilled spirit made from grapes, adding a smooth, rich flavor to the drink. Additionally, the alcohol content of brandy helps to keep the mulled wine warm. So next time you mull a pot of wine, add a brandy splash for extra warmth and flavor.
Apples
In recent years, mulled wine has become increasingly popular in the United States, and bartenders have begun experimenting with different recipes. Apples are among surprising mulled wine ingredients too. Apples add sweetness and body to mulled wine and can also be used to help balance the other flavors. When selecting apples for mulled wine, choosing a varietal that will retain its shape and texture after being cooked is essential. Therefore, Granny Smith apples are a good choice. Apples can be added whole or diced, and they can be cooked with the other mulled wine ingredients or added afterward. Including apples in mulled wine is a great way to add sweetness and complexity to the drink.
Hot beer
Many people enjoy a glass of mulled wine to warm up as the weather gets colder. While the ingredients in mulled wine can vary, there are some surprising ingredients you may not know about. For example, hot beer is often used in mulled wine. The beer helps to add foaminess and body to the drink, resulting in a more enjoyable drink. Hot beer can also help to keep the beverage warm for longer.
Lemon juice
You might not know that lemon juice belongs to the familiar yet surprising ingredients of mulled wine. The tartness of the lemon helps to balance out the sweetness of the wine, and it also provides a refreshing flavor. Moreover, the acidity of the lemon juice can help release the spices’ flavors. As a result, a small amount of lemon juice can go a long way in making a delicious pot of mulled wine.
Ginger
Ginger is a spice that adds a warm, fragrant flavor to mulled wine. It pairs well with the other mulling herbs, and it also helps to balance out the sweetness of the wine. If you’re looking for a mulled wine recipe with a twist, try adding ginger to your next batch. You’ll be surprised at how well it complements the other flavors in the drink.
Vodka
While most recipes call for red wine, some also include vodka as an optional ingredient in mulled wine. Vodka can help accentuate the mulled wine’s flavor and give it a more complex flavor profile. It also helps to keep the mulled wine from becoming overly sweet. However, vodka can also be added in too great of a quantity, so it is vital to use it sparingly. If you want a unique twist on mulled wine, consider adding a splash of vodka to your next batch. Your guests will be pleasantly surprised by the results.
Honey
Honey is a surprisingly versatile ingredient that can be used in all sorts of recipes, including mulled wine. Mulled wine is a traditional winter beverage made by heating red wine and adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Adding honey helps round out the flavors and create a more well-balanced drink. Honey also has some nutritional benefits, including antioxidants and antibacterial properties. Because of this, many people believe that drinking mulled wine can help to boost immunity and fight off colds. So next time you’re mulling wine, don’t forget to add a bit of honey to the mix!