Relax this Thanksgiving

With a glass of Scotty’s Sangria

by Scotty Irani
Food Columnist

If you know me, you know I love my red wine. If you really, really know me, you know that I will never turn down a good cool glass of Sangria… or cake, but this is about Sangria.

You will be inundated with food for the next month or two, so I thought this month we’d take some time out to relax, have a nice little cocktail, and watch everyone else frazzle and fizzle away in the kitchen.

Bonus if you aren’t that handy in the kitchen and have been asked to join friends or family for Thanksgiving, this is something easy you can mix up and bring. Make my Thanksgiving Sangria the night before, let the flavors develop, and you’re ready to go.

What kind of wine for the Sangria? It does not have to be anything fancy and or expensive. A nice moderately priced Pinot Noir, Malbec, or blend would be great, and trust me… everyone will love you for bringing this to the gathering!

Happy Thanksgiving my little foodies! If you have the chance and are looking to share a little of your love and being thankful for all you have, please consider supporting Other Options* in Oklahoma City with a donation or your presence. Their Thanksgiving meal preparations and delivery to people living with HIV/AIDS is something near and dear to my heart, and so many wonderful people will be grateful that you pitched in… as I am thankful and grateful for you.

(*or a local food pantry in your area)

Thanksgiving Sangria

Ingredients:

3 cinnamon sticks (plus more for garnish)

2 Honey-Crisp apples, chopped

1 orange, thinly sliced

1 (750 ml) bottle red wine (I suggest a light-bodied Pinot or Malbec )

14 ounces Apple Cider

1/2 cup brandy

1/4 cup orange juice (or juice from 2 medium oranges)

juice from 1 lemon

club soda, to taste

Directions:

1. Place the cinnamon sticks, apples, and orange slices in a large pitcher. Add wine, apple cider, brandy, orange juice, and lemon juice. Allow to sit in the refrigerator for 6 - 24 hours. Taste - if you'd like it to be sweeter, add 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar, honey, or agave. If you'd like a cinnamon-sugar rim (highly recommended), simply moisten the rim of your glasses with water, turn the glass upside down and dip it into a mix of cinnamon and sugar.

2. Pour a glass of your sangria with a bit of the fruit, then a splash of the club soda, and garnish with a cinnamon stick. Boom, Happy Thanksgiving!

The Gayly – November 22, 2015 @ 1:45 p.m.