The Best Sangria

I’ve written and posted a Sangria recipe previously before. That’s not to say that it isn’t the best for it’s genre but that recipe is entirely different, in essence, compared to this one. That Sangria recipe, was a Peach Sangria and it is amazing. This, however, reprises ingredients that make up the general flavors in a particular Mexican soft drink called, “Sangria Senorial”. I’ve included a berry medley in this Sangria recipe to make it different yet full of fruit and fresh flavor, still. Though Sangria is traditionally served with similar ingredients, this recipe is very different and, in my opinion, this is the best sangria.

1 50.7 fl oz bottle of Sangria Senorial.

Sangria Senorial

I don’t think that most of you are aware of my previous work history, experience and/or previous background because I’ve only shared bit’s and pieces from post to post. I am a certified welder and crane operator, among many other things. The point I’m trying to make is that this drink, Sangria Senorial, was on the food trucks that would visit the construction sites and jobs that I’ve worked on for over 20 years. As you may or may not know, many of these food trucks are owned and operated by Hispanics so, I’ve eaten my fair share of Mexican food over the years. This drink, in particular, was usually among the soda selections and one of my favorites to drink with my lunch. It’s a sparkling non-alcoholic Sangria with natural and artificial flavorings or soda. This drink has heavily influenced the way I’ve decided to write this recipe. It’s not the same, by any means, but it does have similar properties but with Alcohol, instead.

1 750 ml bottle of Anciano Reserva 2013 Spanish Red Wine.

Sangria Red Wine

Since Sangria originates from Spain and Portugal, it’s only fitting to use a Spanish red wine so, I picked up this cheap $10 dollar bottle of wine from my state liquor store for this recipe. You may or may not know that I make my own wine and I teach you how to do it as well. But, as I mentioned, for the purposes of this recipe, I felt that it was fitting to use a Spanish Red Wine but, you use what you have. I know that some folks recommend darker wines like a Pinot Noir. Personally, I think that it makes sense to use dry burgundies because Sangria is deluded down and sweetened with so many other ingredients, including fruit, that the balance comes together perfectly.

Berry Sangria bottled ingredients.

Berry Sangria Ingredients:

3 cup Red Wine, 1 750 ml bottle
2 cups Dr Pepper
12 oz Mike’s Hard Lemonade
1/2 cup Simple Syrup
1/4 cup triple Sec
1/4 Cherry shnapps
1/4 cup Brandy
1 lbs Frozen Berry Medley, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries & strawberries

Follow the instructions in the Berry Sangria Video Tutorial and I’ll show you exactly how to make this fruity wine beverage.

Berry Sangria video tutorial by PoorMansGourmet

Caffeine Awareness Month

Every March is Caffeine Awareness Month. Let’s face it most of us need a little caffeine in the morning to get us started for the day. As normal as this has become in our society, this is not a new idea.
In 1819 Friedlieb Ferdinand Runge, a German chemist, was the first person to extract caffeine from cocoa beans.
In 1912 The U.S. House of Representatives decided to amend the Pure Food and Drug Act, adding caffeine as a “habit-forming” and “deleterious” substance.
In 2003 The Caffeine Awareness Alliance was founded. It was formed in order to promote a caffeine-free environment.

Tea the Healthiest way to get your Caffeine

As addictive as Caffeine can be it’s not all bad. Not only can caffeine increase your ability to stay awake, but it can help you be more productive throughout your day. It is known to treat a number of conditions including headaches, skin problems, digestion and OCD.
Green Tea is the healthiest beverage on Earth. It is full or antioxidants and nutrients that have powerful effects on the body. A few examples are: improved brain function, fat loss, a lower risk of cancer and so much more.
A cup of green tea contains about 40 mg of caffeine.

Get your Caffeine from a cup of Coffee

Coffee is one of the most popular ways to caffeinate.
The 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) state that a maximum of 400 mg of caffeine can be part of a healthy, daily diet.
A cup of coffee contains 80 mg of Caffeine.
With Starbuck shops popping up on every corner, it’s a trend that keeps growing and growing. That’s where PMGK can help. We can teach you how to make all your favorite kinds of coffee without paying the ridiculous Starbucks prices. Just click on the many links throughout this post.

Chocolate has Caffeine too.

A milk chocolate bar contains about 10 mg of caffeine, whereas a darker chocolate bar contains 30 mg of caffeine. If you have a sweet tooth this is a great way to get a little bit of caffeine without over doing it. Research also has proven that dark chocolate has many health benefits.

Caffeine options

No matter what your preference is, there’s a Caffeine for you. From coffee, tea, energy drinks, chocolate bars, frappuccinos, and so many more. An 8 oz. energy drink, a 20 oz. diet cola, and a shot of espresso contain about the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee.
It’s easy to justify our caffeine addictions by looking at all the health benefits, however, there are downsides as well. Consuming more than 400 mg per day could trigger anxiety, insomnia, and increased blood pressure. Caffeine affects everyone differently. So know your limits. Research further the pros and cons of your beverage of choice. But don’t let any of it stop you from enjoying your favorite caffeinated drink. We only live once. I don’t know about you, but I plan to eat and drink well, as long as I’m here, and if it involves caffeine, so be it.