Glögg

Mark Bittman, The Best Recipes in the World. A traditional Swedish hot drink that is powerful.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Yields: 2 quarts

Ingredients

• 1 (750 ml) bottle  dry fruity red wine (like Pinot Noir or Zinfandel)
• 1 (750 ml) bottle port wine
• 375  ml cognac (half of a 750 ml bottle) or 375  ml brandy (half of a 750 ml bottle) or 375  ml rum (half of a 750 ml bottle) or 375  ml vodka (half of a 750 ml bottle)
• 1  orange, zest of
• 10  cardamom pods
• 2  cinnamon sticks
• 10  whole cloves
• 5  slices fresh ginger
•  sugar, to taste
• 1  cup raisins (optional)
• 1  cup  blanched almond (optional)

Directions

1. In a saucepan, combine the wine, port, cognac, orange zest, and spices along with 2 cups water; bring to a boil.
2. Decrease heat and simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Cool, cover, and refrigerate overnight, at least 12 hours.
4. Strain the mixture, then reheat it (do not boil) and add sugar, to taste.
5. Add the raisins and almonds (you may just put a teaspoonful in each glass if you are using these) and serve hot.