Glühwein is a very common drink in Germany during Advent, the four weeks leading up to Christmas. You can be sure to get a cup at the infamous German Christmas Markets. You’ll find one anywhere from small villages to large cities throughout the whole country in December. Having some Glühwein is one of the best ways to get into the Holiday spirit and to start winding down for the Holidays.

If you are not in Germany to get a cup at a Glühwein stand, here’s a quick and easy recipe on how to make some from scratch yourself. (Original recipe)

In short: It’s sweetened, warm red wine with winter spices that help fight off the bitter cold while the warm cups makes sure your fingers don’t freeze off.

Ingredients

• 3 Bottles Dry Red Wein
• 3 Oranges
• 1 Lemon
• 1 Apple
• 3 Small Cinnamon Sticks
• 1 Star Anise
• 1 String of Saffron (pricey but worth it)
• 4 Cloves
• 3 Tablespoons Raisins
• ~ 8 Tablespoons Sugar
• Rum (optional)

Directions

Pour the red wine into a big pot and heat up slowly. Do not let the wine cook! Wash the apple and one orange. Cut the orange into slices. Remove the core of the apple and cut it into slices. Squeeze the juice out of the remaining oranges and the lemon.  Add the fruits and juices to the pot. Put all remaining ingredients into the pot (except for the sugar) and let them simmer for about 20 minutes. Taste the concoction and slowly add the sugar. Remove the cinnamon sticks and star anise when the spice reaches your desired intensity. The fruit can continue to stew. When serving, the fruit should not be poured into the mugs (strain if needed). Pour the hot Glühwein into pre-warmed glasses or mugs and the cold will be taken from your bones. The fruits should stay in the pot. Serve with a piece of dark chocolate to round out the experience. If you’re really adventurous, add a shot of rum to your cup. Zum Wohl!