Difference between mulled wine and quentão: discover the secrets of these typical drinks
With the arrival of winter and the traditional June festivals, hot drinks take center stage in Brazilian celebrations. Among the most popular, the mulled wine e o quentão often cause confusion about their differences. In this article, we will explain what makes each of these drinks unique and how to prepare them in the best way to warm your cold days.
What is mulled wine and how to prepare it
O mulled wine is a drink made from heated wine flavored with spices and fruits, ideal for very cold days. The traditional base uses dry red wine, which is slowly warmed with ingredients that enhance its flavor.
To prepare one liter of mulled wine, you will need:
- 1 liter of dry red wine
- 2 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 chopped green apple
- 1 cup of sugar
- Zest of 1 orange
Just combine all the ingredients in a pot and heat over low heat, without letting it boil so as not to evaporate the alcohol. The result is an aromatic drink, sweetened just right and perfect for typical gatherings of the season.
If you prefer a less sweet version, choose wines without added sugar and adjust the amount to your taste.
Meet quentão: the hot drink made with cachaça
On the other hand, quentão is another traditional winter drink, made with cachaça instead of wine. Its strong and spicy flavor comes from the combination of spices and citrus fruits, ideal for those who enjoy an intense touch in their hot drinks.
The main ingredients of quentão are:
- 1 cup of cachaça
- 1 cup of water
- Ginger pieces (to taste)
- Orange peel
- Cinnamon stick
- Cloves
- Lemon peel
- Sugar (to taste)
To prepare, place all ingredients in a pot, add the water and bring to a boil so the flavors mix well. The mixture should be consumed hot, making it an excellent choice to warm June festivals and winter.
Mulled wine or quentão: which to choose for your party?
The main difference between these two drinks is the alcoholic base: mulled wine uses red wine as the main ingredient, while quentão is prepared with cachaça. Additionally, the spices and fruits used also vary, giving each a unique flavor profile.
Both options are perfect for cold environments and typical events such as traditional June festivals, and guarantee a cozy and tasty experience.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between mulled wine e quentão helps when choosing the ideal drink to warm up your event or special moment. Whether with spiced red wine or flavored cachaça, both provide traditional flavors that celebrate Brazilian culture during winter.
Remember: consume responsibly and if you drink, do not drive. May your parties be delicious and full of flavor!
