Mulled wine is a classic winter beverage made with red wine, spices, and citrus fruits. It’s warm and delicious, but the best part about it is that it pairs wonderfully with food!
If you’re looking for some creative dishes to serve alongside your favorite mulled wine recipe this winter, then look no further.
We’ve put together a list of the best food pairings for mulled wine so you can make your dinner party or holiday gathering a success.
But what is the best food pairing with mulled wine? Here are some of our favorite options for the perfect food pairing for your mulled wine.
17 Best Food Pairing with Mulled Wine
1. Cheese and Charcuterie Boards
Pairing mulled wine with a charcuterie board is always a great idea. The slight sweetness of the mulled wine pairs perfectly with the savory cured meats, while the tart fruits on the board act as a great counterpoint to the sweetness of the drink.
For cheese boards, opt for milder varieties like brie or camembert that won’t overpower the flavor of your mulled wine.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables
The flavors in roasted root vegetables—like carrots, parsnips and potatoes—are sure to be a hit with your mulled wine.
Roast them in oil and spices until they’re tender and caramelized, then serve them alongside your mug of warm and cozy red wine.
As an added bonus, root vegetables are also healthy and nutritious, making this pairing even better!
3. Chocolate Cake
Nothing beats a chocolate cake when it comes to pairing it with mulled wine.
The subtle sweetness of the cake will bring out the sweet notes in your red wines, while its rich texture provides a creamy contrast to all those tart fruits in your glass.
If you don’t have time to bake a cake from scratch, grab a box mix from the store and whip one up in no time!
4. Cured Meats
Cured meats are always a hit at gatherings—and they go especially well with mulled wine!
Opt for cured meats such as salami or prosciutto that have slightly sweet flavors to complement the drink’s spices and citrus notes. Serve them on their own or top off a salad for extra flavor and texture.
5. Beef Wellington
The rich and bold flavors of beef Wellington balance out the sweet and spiced mulled wine.
Discover More: Perfect Sweet Finish to a Beef Wellington Meal
6. Pork Tenderloin
The subtle flavors of pork tenderloin bring out the intricate spices of mulled wine, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms
The earthy flavors of mushrooms are an excellent match for the warmth and spice of mulled wine. (Recipe)
8. Fried Chicken
The crispy and juicy texture of fried chicken creates a perfect contrast to the warm and comforting flavors of mulled wine.
9. Meatballs
The savory flavors of meatballs are a delightful complement to the sweet and spiced notes of mulled wine.
Explore More: Creative Side Dishes to Serve with Teriyaki Pineapple Meatballs
10. Grilled Lamb Chops
The smoky and bold flavors of lamb chops make a great match for the complex spices of mulled wine.
11. Salmon
The light and delicate flavors of salmon balance out the warm and spicy flavors of mulled wine perfectly.
12. Meat Pie
The savory and hearty flavors of meat pie pair well with the bold flavors of mulled wine.
13. Beef Stew
The tender beef and hearty vegetables in a beef stew create a hearty and satisfying match for the warmth and spice of mulled wine. (Recipe)
14. Risotto
The creamy and rich textures of risotto complement the intricate spices of mulled wine.
15. Chocolate Truffles
The indulgent flavors of chocolate truffles create a perfect match for the warm and comforting flavors of mulled wine.
16. Apple Tart
The sweet and tangy flavors of apple tart complement the spiced notes of mulled wine beautifully.
17. Gingerbread Cookies
The warm and spicy flavors of gingerbread cookies make a tasty treat to enjoy with a glass of mulled wine.
Find Out More: Best Food to Pair with Rosé Wine
Wrap Up
Mulled wine is one of those drinks that can be enjoyed anytime throughout the year. When it comes to finding just what type of food should accompany it, though, there are plenty of options available!
Cheese and charcuterie boards go well with their sweet flavor profile, as do roasted root vegetables or even chocolate cake if you’re feeling indulgent!
So get creative and try out some of these delicious recipes at your next gathering! Your guests will thank you!
FAQs
What flavor doesn’t go well with mulled wine?
Mulled wine is a famous drink that is enjoyed during the winter months, especially during the holiday season.
This warm, spiced wine is a great way to warm up on a cold evening, and it pairs well with many different flavors. However, there is one flavor that doesn’t go well with mulled wine, and that is mint.
Mint is a strong and refreshing flavor that is commonly associated with winter and the holiday season.
It is often used in desserts, such as candy canes and peppermint bark, and it can also be found in many holiday drinks, like hot chocolate and eggnog. However, when it comes to mulled wine, mint is not a good choice.
The reason for this is that the strong flavor of mint can overpower the delicate flavors of the spices that are used in mulled wine.
When you combine mint with the warm and spicy flavors of mulled wine, it can create a strange and unpleasant taste that is not enjoyable.
Additionally, mint can also clash with the fruity undertones of the wine, making the overall experience less enjoyable.
If you are looking to enjoy a glass of mulled wine this winter, it is best to avoid adding any mint to your recipe.
Stick to traditional spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and you’ll be sure to have a delicious and satisfying drink that will warm you up from the inside out.