Looking for the perfect crowd-pleasing drink? You’ve found it! This large batch sangria recipe is a vibrant and delicious way to get the party started. This recipe makes a big batch, ensuring everyone stays refreshed and happy. Prepare to have the simplest hosting solution ever!
What is Sangria Anyway?
Sangria. Just the name conjures up images of sun-drenched patios, clinking glasses, and shared laughter. But where does this bewitching beverage get its name? Is it from the Spanish word for “blood,” referring to its typically ruby-red hue? Does it have some deep-rooted, centuries-old secret tied to Moorish kings or flamenco dancers?
Maybe it was accidentally invented when a clumsy bartender spilled wine into a fruit bowl and then, trying to recover, sold it as an innovative new drink! Well, whatever the story is, the proof is in the pitcher – or in this case, the party pitcher! After all, they say, “the way to a man’s (or woman’s!) heart is through their stomach.” So, why not win everyone over with a delightful pitcher of potent, fruity goodness? Grab your ingredients and let’s whip some up!
Key Ingredients for Large Batch Sangria:
Here’s a visual representation of the vibrant ingerdients!
Here’s what you’ll need to create Sangria Perfection:
- 1 (750ml) bottle of red wine: A dry Spanish red wine is traditional (like Rioja), but a lighter-bodied Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon also works wonderfully.
- 1/2 cup brandy: This adds a boozy kick and complexity. Use a decent brandy, but nothing too extravagantly priced.
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec): This lends a citrusy sweetness.
- 1/2 cup orange juice: Freshly squeezed is always best for maximum flavor!
- 1 orange, sliced: Adds a burst of citrus and visual appeal. Look for oranges with thin skins.
- 1 lemon, sliced: Provides a tart contrast to the sweetness.
- 1 apple, cored and chopped: Use a crisp apple like Fuji or Honeycrisp that holds its shape.
- 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries): Optional, depending on your preference and what’s in season.
- 2 cinnamon sticks: Adds a warm, spice. Break them in half before adding.
- 1 liter of club soda or sparkling water: This adds fizz and lightens the drink before serving.
- Ice: Essential for keeping it cold and refreshing.
How to Make Large Batch Sangria:
This large batch sangria recipe is not only incredibly easy to make but also incredibly well rewarded. In about 15 minutes of preparation, you can have a pitcher filled with delicious sangria that’s perfect for your next gathering. The beauty of it lies in its simplicity and refreshing taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Combine ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the red wine, brandy, orange liqueur, and orange juice.
- Add fruit and spices: Add the orange slices, lemon slices, apple pieces, berries (if using), and cinnamon sticks to the pitcher.
- Chill: Stir well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the fruit to infuse the wine with its flavors. The longer it sits, the better!
- Add bubbly: Just before serving, add the club soda or sparkling water. This prevents the sangria from going flat.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice and pour the prepared large batch sangria over the ice. Garnish with additional fruit slices, if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Large Batch Sangria:
Let’s dive into why this large batch sangria is destined to become your go-to party pleaser. First off, the flavor explosion is undeniable. You get the rich, fruity notes of the wine perfectly complemented by the sweet citrus, the kick of brandy, and the subtle warmth of cinnamon. Then, factor in the sheer cost-effectiveness. Buying pre-made sangria at the store can be pricey, and often lacks the fresh fruit punch you crave.
Making it yourself allows you to control the quality of ingredients and save money while producing a higher-quality and better-tasting drinks. Finally, the customization options are endless. Swap out fruits, adjust the sweetness, or add different liqueurs to create your signature blend. This recipe is so simple and customisable that it becomes the perfect way to impress a crowd.
If you enjoy this kind of fruit-wine fusion, you might also want to check out our recipe for fruit punch! Ready to experience the magic of this large batch sangria recipe? Try it today!
What to Serve Large Batch Sangria With:
- Tapas: Olives, cheeses, cured meats, grilled vegetables, and patatas bravas are all classic Spanish appetizers that pair perfectly with sangria.
- Grilled Seafood: The refreshing sangria cuts through the richness of grilled shrimp, fish, or calamari.
- Paella: A hearty paella is a traditional Spanish dish that complements the sangria beautifully.
- Summer Salads: A light and refreshing salad with grilled chicken or fish balances the sweetness of the sangria.
- Empanadas The savory warmth of a good empanada is the perfect match for the fruity zing of sangria
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Large Batch Sangria:
- Use good-quality wine: You don’t need to use the most expensive wine, but choose something that you enjoy drinking on its own. A cheap wine will make a cheap-tasting sangria.
- Don’t skimp on the fruit: Use a variety of fresh, ripe fruits for the best flavor.
- Let it marinate: The longer the sangria sits, the more the flavors will meld together. Aim for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better. But don’t marinade it for too long or the mixture will become bitter and soggy.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sangria, add a little simple syrup or honey to taste.
- Use chilled ingredients: This will help keep the sangria cold and refreshing.
- Avoid using soft, squishy fruits Overripe or mushy fruits will just disintegrate into the mixture and make the result less appelaing. Always use quality, firm fruit.
- Add bubbly just before serving: This will ensure that the sangria is nice and fizzy. You can also add prosecco, cava, or other sparkling wine.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Storing:
- Store leftover sangria in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- The fruit will continue to infuse the wine with flavor, so the sangria may become more potent over time.
- Sangria is best consumed within 3 days for optimal quality and to prevent the fruit from becoming mushy.
Freezing:
- Sangria can be frozen, but the texture of the fruit may change when thawed.
- To freeze, pour the sangria into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating:
- Sangria is best served cold, so reheating is not recommended.
- If you froze the sangria, you can pour it back into a pitcher and add some fresh fruits after letting it sit in the fridge.
Final Thoughts:
This large batch sangria recipe is so much more than just a drink; it’s a celebration in a pitcher! It’s about sharing moments with loved ones, creating memories, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life especially good food and drinks. So grab your wine glasses, gather your friends, and enjoy! Cheers!
try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest
FAQs:
Q: Can I make sangria ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, it’s recommended. Making it at least 2 hours (or even overnight) ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together.
Q: What kind of red wine should I use?
A: A dry Spanish red wine like Rioja is traditional, but a lighter-bodied Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon also works great.
Q: Can I use different fruits?
A: Definitely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits. Peaches, pears, and pineapple are all great additions.
Q: Can I make it without the brandy?
A: Yes, you can! Sangria is still delicious without the added liquor. Just adjust the sweetness to taste, as the brandy adds some.
Q: Can I make a white sangria?
A: Absolutely. Substitute the red wine for a crisp white wine for a refreshing, summery twist
Q: How long will Sangria last?
A: Sangria tastes best if consumed within three days as afterwards the fruit will start to spoil. Try to filter out the fruit with a strainer after the first day to ensure it doesnt start to turn.