The time has arrived for celebration of the simultaneous ending and beginning of the year. In TCM, death and life are synergistic and always intertwined. The endings and new beginnings that New Year’s Eve to New Year’s Day represent is a wonderful symbol of this ongoing interplay. As we come together over warm food and drink before the deep cold of winter sets in, here is a mulled wine recipe to share. It can be modified to be more warming and spiced, or sweeter depending on what you and your guests prefer.
Ingredients
One bottle of dry red wine (Pinot Noir, Malbec, Merlot etc.) *add 1/2 bottle more if some wine is lost in the boiling process
1 cup pomegranate juice
1 sliced red pear
2 cinnamon sticks
1/2 tbsp whole clove
4 jujube dates
1/3 cup goji berry
2-3 dried orange slices
2 sprigs rosemary
2 sprigs thyme
2 pieces star anise *if guests prefer sweet/less spiced, omit
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Place heat over medium-high until it reaches a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Taste test to adjust for personal preference. Add more pear, pomegranate juice, and/or goji to sweeten. Add more cinnamon or clove to make more warming. Add more dried orange to brighten.
Strain and pour into thermos to keep warm or serve immediately.
Set aside pear to use as after-dinner dessert. Add desired amount of pear to the bottom of a mug, fill with warm water. Drink and enjoy wine-steeped pear. Or use as a topping for yogurt, creme brulee or other treats.
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