There’s nothing quite like a warm, spiced glass of gløgg to get into the festive spirit during the holidays. This traditional Scandinavian mulled wine is cozy, aromatic, and perfect for sipping by the fire. But why stop at tradition? This Zaza-Infused Gløgg recipe adds a modern, chill twist to the classic, using zaza-infused spirits to elevate your holiday vibes to a whole new level.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, relaxing at home, or sharing a festive toast with friends, this infused gløgg is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe and show you how to make this cozy, magical drink in just three easy steps!
What is Gløgg?
Gløgg is a Nordic mulled wine traditionally served during Christmas and winter celebrations. It’s made by gently heating red wine, sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. In Denmark, it’s often topped with raisins and slivered almonds, making it as festive to look at as it is to drink.
In this recipe, we’ll incorporate zaza-infused spirits for a unique twist that enhances the relaxing, holiday vibes of this iconic drink.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Zaza-Infused Spirits:
• 2–3g zaza (your herb of choice)
• 250ml vodka or rum
For the Gløgg Extract:
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 vanilla pod (split and scraped)
• Spices:
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6–8 whole cloves
• 3–4 cardamom pods (cracked)
• 1–2 star anise
• 1 orange (sliced, with peel)
• Juice of 1 orange
• Juice of 1 lemon
For the Gløgg Base:
• 1 bottle red wine (dry or semi-sweet)
• 1 cup port wine
• 1/2 cup rum (or more to taste)
Toppings:
• Raisins
• Slivered almonds
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Infuse the Spirits
The magic of this recipe starts with creating your zaza-infused spirits. This step adds a subtle, herbal touch to the gløgg that pairs perfectly with the warm spices and citrus flavors.
Instructions:
1. Decarb the Zaza:
• Preheat your oven to 240°F (115°C).
• Spread 2–3g zaza evenly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 30–40 minutes until it becomes golden and fragrant. This step activates the zaza for infusion.
2. Infuse the Spirits:
• Combine the decarbed zaza with 250ml vodka or rum in a jar or bottle.
• Seal tightly and shake well.
• Let it steep for at least 24 hours, but for best results, let it infuse for 2–3 days.
• Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any plant material. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Gløgg Extract
The gløgg extract is the flavor-packed base for your drink. It combines sugar, spices, and citrus to create the signature warm and cozy flavors of Scandinavian mulled wine.
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine:
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 vanilla pod (split and scraped)
• Spices (cinnamon sticks, cloves, cardamom pods, star anise)
• Orange slices (with peel)
• Juice of 1 orange and juice of 1 lemon
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to allow the spices and citrus to release their flavors.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the zaza-infused spirits.
5. Let the extract steep for 1–3 weeks in a cool, dark place if you’re planning ahead. For a quicker option, you can use it immediately, though the flavors will intensify the longer it sits.
Step 3: Serve the Magic
Now it’s time to bring everything together and prepare the final gløgg!
Instructions:
1. Strain the gløgg extract into a large pot to remove the spices and citrus pieces.
2. Add:
• 1 bottle of red wine
• 1 cup of port wine
• 1/2 cup rum (or more if you want a stronger kick!)
3. Heat the mixture gently over low heat. Do not boil, as this will burn off the alcohol and dull the flavors.
4. Serve warm in mugs or heatproof glasses. Garnish each glass with a sprinkle of raisins and slivered almonds for a festive touch.
Tips for the Perfect Zaza-Infused Gløgg
1. Choose Your Red Wine Wisely: Go for a dry or semi-sweet red wine. Merlot, Syrah, or Cabernet Sauvignon work beautifully.
2. Control the Strength: Adjust the amount of zaza-butter or infused spirits to suit your desired potency. Start with a small amount and increase as needed.
3. Add Sweetness or Spice: If your gløgg tastes too tart, add a little extra sugar or honey. For more spice, let the cinnamon and cloves steep longer in the extract.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Festive and Cozy: Gløgg is the ultimate holiday drink, perfect for warming up on cold winter nights.
2. Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, spices, or alcohol to match your taste preferences.
3. A Magical Twist: The zaza infusion adds a fun and unique touch to this traditional drink, making it perfect for relaxing holiday vibes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I skip the zaza infusion?
Absolutely! If you prefer a classic gløgg recipe, simply use regular vodka or rum instead of zaza-infused spirits.
How long does gløgg last?
The gløgg extract can last for up to 1 month when stored in a cool, dark place. Once mixed with wine and heated, it’s best consumed immediately.
What should I serve with gløgg?
Gløgg pairs beautifully with Danish Christmas cookies like peppernuts, gingerbread, or marzipan treats.
This Zaza-Infused Gløgg recipe takes the classic Scandinavian mulled wine to a whole new level. With its warm spices, citrus notes, and a subtle herbal infusion, it’s the perfect drink to share during the holidays—or to enjoy yourself as you unwind by the fire.
So gather your ingredients, invite your friends, and toast to the season with this magical, cozy drink. Cheers to festive vibes and unforgettable flavors! 🎄🍷✨
Skål!
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