Warm your soul with Finnish mulled wine recipe
Come in from the cold and warm up with a delicious and flavorful glass of Finnish mulled wine, also known as glögi. This traditional Scandinavian holiday drink is sure to become a family favorite – it’s bold, spicy, and perfect for sipping by the fire. With flavors of orange, cinnamon, and cardamom mixed in with red wine, you’ll never want to go back to plain old red wine again.
As a sommelier, I must recommend this irresistible Finnish mulled wine recipe to anyone who loves bold flavors and unique blends. With the holidays coming up, the temperature dropping lower every day and festivities all around us it’s the perfect time to brew up some heart-warming glögi!
This recipe is easy to make and can be adjusted to suit individual preferences. As an added bonus, the delightful aroma of simmering spices will fill your home as you prepare this delicious drink. So let’s start brewing some Finnish mulled wine to get into the traditional Scandinavian holiday spirit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a hot and heart-warming drink that’s perfect for cold winter evenings, then Finnish Mulled Wine or Glögi is just what you need. This traditional holiday drink is popular across Scandinavia, and for good reason. With a rich blend of red wine, spices, raisins, and sugar, this mulled wine is guaranteed to delight your senses and warm up your soul.
What sets this recipe apart is the perfect balance of fragrant cinnamon sticks, cardamom seeds, and whole cloves. The addition of orange rind adds a subtle sweetness that complements the brew beautifully. The warming aroma alone would be enough to make your mouth water and your insides feel cozy. And did I mention those plump juicy raisins that absorb all the flavorful goodness of the wine?
But what makes this recipe truly unique is its versatility. You can easily adjust the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences or substitute it with honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with different types of wine or add some brandy for an extra punch.
So whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply want to indulge in a festive mood by yourself, this recipe will never disappoint. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to please any crowd. The subtle balance of flavors is sure to dazzle your palate and leave you longing for more.
Give it a try, and we guarantee that it will become one of your go-to recipes to lift up any winter blues!
Ingredient List
Here is the ingredient list for this delicious Finnish mulled wine recipe:
- 1 bottle of red wine
- 2-3 cups of water
- 1 cinnamon stick (3 inches)
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 inch of fresh ginger, sliced
- 1 teaspoon whole cardamom seeds
- Rind of one orange
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- ½ cup raisins
These ingredients are what make up the perfect blend of flavors in this warm and comforting winter drink, also known as glögi or glögg. Keep in mind that you can adjust the sugar amount to your liking and add or subtract ingredients according to your personal preferences.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Heat the Wine
In a large pot, heat 2 cups of red wine over medium-low heat. Be careful not to boil the wine as it may affect its taste.
Step 2: Add Spices and Flavorings
Add 5 whole cloves, 1 cinnamon stick, 1/3 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of whole cardamom seeds, and 1 inch of orange rind to the pot. You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference.
Step 3: Add Raisins and Water
Next, add 1/2 cup of raisins and 2 cups of water to the pot. Stir the mixture occasionally until the sugar has dissolved.
Step 4: Let it Simmer
Once the sugar has dissolved, let the mixture simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking or burning on the bottom.
Step 5: Strain and Serve Hot
After simmering, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another pot or a heatproof pitcher. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious homemade Finnish mulled wine!
Substitutions and Variations
If you want to make some changes to the classic Finnish Mulled Wine recipe, there are some substitutions and variations that you can try based on your preferences.
For instance, if you don’t have raisins in hand, you can replace them with other dried fruits like cranberries or cherries. Moreover, if you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add more sugar or honey.
To make it kid-friendly, avoid the red wine and substitute it with grape juice or apple cider. Additionally, if you’re looking for a non-alcoholic version but still crave the warm feeling of mulled wine, replace the red wine with black tea or orange juice.
For spice variations, consider substituting cinnamon sticks with nutmeg or allspice. You can also add vanilla extract or swap cardamom seeds with ginger.
When it comes to serving, top the glögi with whipped cream and roasted nuts like almonds, cashews or walnuts for extra flavor and texture. You could also consider adding a shot of brandy for an extra kick!
With these substitutions and variations, you can enjoy your personalized version of Finnish Mulled Wine every time.
Serving and Pairing
When it comes to serving Finnish mulled wine, or Glogi, I recommend it hot – that’s when the true magic happens. Pour yourself a nice warm cup and take in the delightful aroma of the cinnamon sticks and cardamom seeds that dance around your nose. Trust me; it’s like a cozy hug in a mug during those colder months.
Pair your Glogi with sweet treats such as gingerbread cookies or almond tarts. To balance out the sweetness, you can enjoy a side of Gouda cheese, cranberries, or sliced apples with fresh bread. The pairing opens up a variety of flavor profiles that you won’t want to miss out on.
Pro Tip: If you’re aiming for an authentic Finnish Christmas experience, taking your time while enjoying your Glogi is crucial. Take small sips to let the flavors linger in your mouth before indulging in the next one. Enjoy your holiday savories and sweets alike while bundled up underneath fuzzy blankets with family and friends at hand.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about Finnish mulled wine, or glögi, is that it can be made ahead of time and stored for later. In fact, many people argue that glögi tastes even better after a day or two!
To make this recipe ahead of time, simply follow the instructions but stop before adding the raisins. Allow the wine to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or pitcher and storing it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the wine on low heat until it’s warmed through.
If you have leftovers after serving, you can also store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to remove any leftover raisins beforehand as they can become mushy and unappetizing when stored for too long.
To reheat already-served glögi, you can use either a stovetop method or a microwave method. For the stovetop method, gently heat the wine over low heat until warmed through but not boiling. For the microwave method, transfer portions of the wine to a microwave-safe container and warm on medium power for 30-second increments until heated through.
Overall, Finnish mulled wine is an excellent drink option for entertaining as it can be made ahead of time and easily reheated for guests!
Tips for Perfect Results
To get the perfect glogi or Finnish mulled wine, there are a few tips that should be kept in mind. Here are some tips to ensure that your mulled wine is a hit:
First of all, it’s always best to start with good quality red wine. It doesn’t need to be the most expensive bottle you can find, but it should be a decent one. Avoid using overly sweet or cheap wines as they will not blend well with the spices and can leave an off taste.
When adding the spices, whole spices will give you more flavor than pre-ground ones. Whole cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods and cloves are readily available in most grocery stores or online. Grind them yourself when ready to use for maximum flavor.
It is important to let the spices simmer in the wine for a while to allow their flavors to infuse properly. Do not leave them too long though as they can become overpowering.
If you want a sweeter mulled wine, add extra sugar rather than trying to extend the cooking time. Dissolve sugar into hot water so that it blends more evenly throughout the wine.
For those who prefer fruitier wines, orange peel or cranberry juice can be added instead of water. This adds another layer of complexity to the finished product.
When serving glogi, be sure it stays warm and make sure your guests don’t stir their drinks. Raisins should be added in each glass as an edible garnish and also help soak up excess alcohol.
By following these simple tips, your Finnish mulled wine or glogi recipe will taste perfect and impress your friends and family!
FAQ
Now that you know how to make Finnish Mulled Wine, it’s normal to have some questions about it. So in this section, I will answer some frequently asked questions to make sure that everything is clear and simple for you. So, let’s start with the FAQs!
What is the difference between mulled wine and glögg?
When comparing Glogg and mulled wine, it can be observed that they share a lot of similarities but still have some notable distinctions. A key difference lies in the amount of alcohol used, with Glogg containing more Acquavit in its recipe than mulled wine. Additionally, Glogg is typically made with dry fruits and nuts, which sets it apart from mulled wine that doesn’t feature these ingredients in its recipe.
Is there a difference between mulled wine and Glühwein?
When it comes to hot spiced wine, the terms “mulled wine” and “Glühwein” can be used interchangeably. Glühwein is the name typically used in Germany and Austria, while mulled wine is more commonly used elsewhere. The taste of this cozy beverage comes from the combination of warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, which lend it a delicious and comforting flavor.
What is the difference between glögg and Glühwein?
Glögg and glühwein are two popular winter beverages that are enjoyed in different countries. While glögg is commonly consumed in the Nordic nations, glühwein is a favorite in German-speaking regions.
What alcohol is in Glogi?
When it comes to making Glögg, the ingredients used can differ depending on the recipe. Some opt for white or sweet wine while others prefer to incorporate brandy or cognac. The process of creating Glögg involves boiling water and adding various spices, which are then strained after simmering. Finally, fruit juice, wine or clear spirits are mixed in to complete the drink.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, I highly recommend trying out this Finnish mulled wine recipe, also known as glogi. With its warm and festive spices, it is the perfect drink to enjoy during the colder months of the year. Whether you are looking for a new holiday tradition or simply want to cozy up with a hot spiced wine, this recipe is sure to impress.
By using simple ingredients like red wine, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves, you can easily make a delicious batch of glogi in your own home. The addition of cardamom seeds and orange rind add depth and complexity to the flavor profile, making it an even more enjoyable drinking experience.
Not only is this recipe tasty and satisfying, but it is also highly customizable. Feel free to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make it truly your own. Whether you prefer sweeter or spicier versions, there are endless possibilities when it comes to finessing this classic Finnish treat.
So why not add some warmth and cheer to your next holiday gathering with a batch of homemade glogi? As they say in Finland: Kippis! (Cheers!)
Glogi ( Finnish Mulled Wine) Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 5 whole cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick (ca 3-inch)
- 1 teaspoon whole cardamom seed
- 2 inches candid orange rind (about 1 tbsp)
- 750 ml red wine (1 bottle)
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 2 tablespoons almonds, blanched whole (or slivered)
Instructions
- In a non aluminum mid-size sauce pan, heat water and sugar over medium heat until sugar is dissolved, about 1 minute.
- Tie all spices and the peel into a small piece of cheesecloth for easy removal.
- Add the spices and peel and wine to the sauce pan and simmer, covered, 5 minutes.
- To serve: Stand one spoon in each glass, evenly divide gogli into each glass.
- Add a few raisins and almonds in each, or serve separately.