Glühwein, Mulled Wine

Glühwein, Mulled Wine

1 bottle dry Red Wine

1/2 c. of Raw Cane Sugar

Juice and peel of one small Orange

2 Cardamom pods

4 Cloves

2 Bay Leaves

2 Cinnamon Sticks

Put all ingredients in a heavy bottomed pan. Stir to melt the sugar. Heat the mixture over low heat, and leave for about an hour - it should never boil, just sort of seethe.

Serve in small mugs (straining out the peel and spices), with optional shot of brandy, kirsch or other liqueur.

Notes: You may vary the sweetener to change the taste - honey is interesting, as is dark brown sugar or molasses.

Hot Buttered Rum

If you dare to make this hot buttered rum, there will never be another in your life.  Splurge and enjoy. This recipe serves many and without the rum it is a treat for the under 21 crowd as well.

1/2 lb Organic Brown Sugar
1/2 lb Organic Powdered Sugar
1/2 lb Organic Butter (unsalted and room temp)
1/2 quart good quality Organic Vanilla Ice Cream (softened)
1 tsp Nutmeg

Blend all ingredients until smoth. Freeze to chill and harden. Use 1-2 Tb. per cup. Add hot water and 1 oz of rum to make 1 cup.

Keep in the freezer until all is gone.