14 Oct Sangria

Image © Shelly Waldman

What better recipe, from my recently published book ‘Traditionally Rustic Food‘, to end the celebrations of National Hispanic American Heritage Month than my signature SANGRIA!

National Hispanic Heritage Month is a period from September 15 to October 15 in the United States for recognising the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.

Sangria is a very popular hispanic drink, widely spread all over the world, that is very easy to make and even easier to drink! There are many versions, but I have based this recipe on the one my husband used to produce with his friend and business partner Jorge. I remember when they started with the idea of making sangría that they could bottle and market. They did it and were quite successful, mainly at summer markets. You could see people walking very happily around the market. I developed and wrote this recipe as part of a wedding gift for my first hairdresser in California. I wonder what she is thinking of being the first one to have it!

My sangria is always a favourite at my cooking classes!

INGREDIENTS
MAKES 2 JUGS (PITCHERS)

1 bottle of red wine (Tempranillo or Pinot Noir work best)
4 cups (1 litre / 32 oz) bottle of sparkling lemonade (or make your own)
Juice and peel of 1 lemon
Juice and peel of 1 orange
1⁄2 cup (125ml / 4 oz) apple juice (store bought)
2 cinnamon sticks
1 to 2 shots of tequila or rum (or your favourite liquor)
1⁄4 cup (60ml / 2 oz) maple syrup (or to taste; you can also use agave syrup)
1 lemon sliced
1 orange sliced
Fresh mint

1. Pour the wine in a jug (pitcher) and add the lemon, orange, and apple juices. Add also the lemon and orange peels, the cinnamon sticks, maple syrup, and liquor of your choice
2. Stir to mix well and keep refrigerated for a few hours; preferably overnight
3. When ready to serve, strain the wine mixture over a big jug (pitcher) and add the lemonade. The perfect ratio is 2 parts lemonade to 1 part wine mixture. Experiment with 1 to 1 and 3 to 1 ratios, depending on how strong you like it
4. Put plenty of ice, slices of lemon and orange and fresh mint leaves

Enjoy (with moderation)!

I have many other recipes with hispanic heritage in my book: empanadas, chilli, simple guacamole & more. Use the link to order your copy. You’ll love it!

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Leave your comments and or questions, if you have any. I’m always happy to help ☺

EAT WELL AND BE HAPPY!