Sorry, I've been late for this post.
We traveled to Vienna to spend Christmas with our family.
It's already very cold here and for Tuesday the first snow is expected.
People crowd at the beautiful Weihnachtsmaerkte (Christmas markets) where all kind of sweets, hot chocolate, mulled wine and different kinds of punch are served.
At least one stall at every market sells for charity.
Many charity organizations, usually with voluntary helpers, are reliant on these donations.
There are as well live concerts with Christmas music and the ambiance is beautiful and festive.
There are as well live concerts with Christmas music and the ambiance is beautiful and festive.
Christmas wouldn't be complete without the annual "Christmas in Vienna" in the Konzerthaus a great classical music event hosting international singing stars. This concert is broadcast on TV every year.
But before rushing to the next musical event, I would like to share with you one of my favorite punch recipes, a highlite for every Christmas or winter party.
Apricots add a wonderful, aromatic flavor to this hot drink.
This is what you need:
This is what you need:
750 ml apricot juice
750 ml white wine
2 star anise
4 cardamom pods, cracked
1 vainilla bean, split lengthwise and scraped
75 g brown sugar
zest of 1 untreated lemon
3 table spoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
150 ml apricot liqueur
Bring all ingredients except for the apricot liqueur to a boil, then let simmer for about 10 minutes.
Remove spices and lemon zest and add apricot liqueur.
Serve hot and top with a spooon full of whipped cream ( optional)
Serves 8
