As chilly winter weather sets in, what could be more tempting than a warm holiday drink or something sparkling to welcome in the New Year? Here are a few recipes perfect for sipping on while studying by the fire in Reid or to impress friends at an upcoming party!
Barcelona Hot Chocolate
This hot chocolate, popular in Spain and the rest of Europe, features a hint of orange and is a little less sweet than the traditional American version.
Ingredients:
2/3 cup boiling water
2 ounces good-quality dark or bittersweet (60 to 70 percent cocoa) chocolate, finely chopped
1 1/3 cups low-fat milk
1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/2-inch piece orange rind strip
Preparation:
Combine 2/3 cup boiling water and chopped chocolate in a medium saucepan, stirring until chocolate melts. Add milk and next 4 ingredients (through rind); cook over medium-low heat, stirring with a whisk. Heat 5 minutes or until tiny bubbles form around edge of pan, stirring frequently (do not boil). Discard rind. Pour 1 cup mixture into each of 4 mugs.
To finish, spoon whipped cream on top and dust with cocoa powder.
Eggnog
Creamy and rich, homemade eggnog can be made up to one week in advance.
Ingredients:
3 1/2 cups low-fat milk
1/2 cup fat-free sweetened condensed milk
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon grated whole nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 large egg yolks
1/4 cup bourbon
2 tablespoons brandy
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation
Combine first 5 ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly with a whisk. Place egg yolks in a medium bowl. Gradually whisk one-third of hot milk mixture into egg yolks. Add yolk mixture to remaining hot milk mixture, stirring with a whisk. Cook over medium heat 1 minute or until slightly thickened. Pour into a pitcher; stir in bourbon, brandy, and vanilla.
Cover surface of eggnog with wax paper; refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. Serve dusted with nutmeg or cinnamon.
Mulled Wine Sangria
A fresh take on a holiday classic, mulled wine sangria is great for winter entertaining in Walla Walla.
Ingredients
1 bottle merlot or other red wine, chilled and divided
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
1 (16-ounce) bag frozen unsweetened strawberries
1/2 orange, thinly sliced and cut in half
1 (12-ounce) can club soda
Preparation
Combine 1 cup wine, sugar, and sachet in a small saucepan; bring to a simmer. Cook 5 minutes. Remove from heat; cool. Discard sachet. Pour mixture into a pitcher; add remaining 3 cups wine. Chill thoroughly. Add juice, strawberries, orange slices, and club soda.
Source: Cooking Light Magazine
