Give Yourself The Gift Of Glogg! Skol Buffalo!

Yesterday with the snow day, my kids were elated.  They grabbed their sleds, and took off, of course after joyously sleeping in.  While, us big kids don't quite get the same fun out of the day.  There is always the sidewalk to shovel, the car to clean-off (I never can find my ice-scaper, ever!), and then the longer than normal time to commute anywhere.

But, then while coming back from Mix96 yesterday, a lovely thought came to my mind-Glogg!!!  My family roots are all nordic, so Swedish Glogg, a mulled wine with something extra, seemed the perfect concoction, for the end of my day.  Here is my Mom's recipe.

You'll need:

1 bottle red wine, 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons raisins, 3 tablespoons zest (orange), 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 tablespoon cardamon, 8 cloves, and then my mom says optional but I had it always- 1 1/2 cup vodka :)

Combine the wine, vodka, sugar, orange peel, raisins, and cinnamon sticks into a 2 to 3 quart pot.  Heat to 175 F (77C) and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.  The whole house will start smelling lovely.  Strain to remove spices.  Feel free to garnish with a slice of orange over the side of the mug.  I sometimes throw orange slice over the side of the mug. Okay, actually I don't but my mom, the way better domestic goddess, than me, always did.  Here is another recipe just in case you prefer Brandy.