creating memories; bring the party outside
Summer may have officially wrapped up, but there’s still plenty of time for outdoor entertaining; relaxing on the patio or deck might be even more inviting than it was midsummer. I find the fall days are more enjoyable, the evenings are cozier.
Give your guests a heads up on the outdoor venue, and create an atmosphere that encourages them to embrace the cooler temperatures. Light the space with candles, lanterns or solar lights, and get a fire going or place outdoor heaters where guests could easy warm up! Don’t forget to bring the bar outdoors ~ guests will always mingle around the drinks!
Our fav items for outdoor hosting;
Our go-to mulled wine recipe; serves 6-8
INGREDIENTS
2 large oranges
1 liter red wine
10 ounces brandy
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
2 cinnamon sticks
6 whole cloves
3 cardamom pods, slightly crushed
PREPARATION
Using a peeler, remove the peel in strips from one orange. Slice the other orange into rounds and reserve for garnish.
In a nonreactive saucepan, combine orange peel, juice and the remaining ingredients. Stir over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves, about 2 minutes. Increase heat to high, bring mixture to a boil, immediately reducing heat to low. Simmer gently, about 30minutes.
Strain the mixture, discarding the solids.
Ladle into mugs, garnish each with a reserved orange round & enjoy!