Glühwein

One of the first signs of fall in Germany are the open air market stalls serving hot spiced wine. For an American, it’s a bit shocking to see alcohol sold on the street and drunk openly! Glühwein is particularly popular at a Weihnachtsmarkt (Christmas market). The markets open in mid-December and sell ornaments, adventcalendars, springerle molds and other Christmas items. Every city and town has a Weinachtsmarkt;

Many European traditions include hot spiced wine. Substitute orange rind for the lemon to make English mulled claret. Swedish glogg is a more complex recipe, but begins with a base of red wine and spices.

German specialty stores offer “tea bags” of spices under the brand name Glühfix. Most modern Germans use Glühfix at home (and when selling in the Markt).

~ by marissablog on December 28, 2007.