-
Pink Pepper Berry
When you’re in the mood for refreshing berry flavor with a hint of spice, turn to the Pink Pepper Berry, which can be made as a non-alcoholic drink or cocktail. Unlike other peppercorns, the pink variety are actually berries, making them a fitting addition in the form of an infused simple syrup. Fresh strawberry puree lends the majority of the berry flavor, with tarragon and a squeeze of lime adding the right balance. Since friends and family who don’t imbibe aren’t often treated to individual pours, break out a set of bar tools to make the scene festive. Just keep track of which set is for which version. If you…
-
Grapefruit Brûlée Mocktail with Thyme
There is nothing quite like the crackle of a spoon breaking through a layer of nearly-burnt sugar. Often the sensation presents itself after being served crème brûlée, where the caramelized top classically hides vanilla custard, but it also can be enjoyed when diving through the surface of a brûléed grapefruit. In the latter case, your treat is a spoonful of tangy, sweet citrus with a crisp, toasty coating. This mocktail recipe captures the flavor of grapefruit brûlée in a refreshing way for those times when you’d prefer a glass to a spoon. Sometimes it’s impractical to serve grapefruit halves with the rest of your meal, or maybe it’s too scorchingly…
-
Vanilla Cider Punch
The first crush of grapes is the sign that wine making is about to begin. Whether done by modern techniques or the ancient method of grape stomping, which a few wineries still use, the skin of the grape often is broken in the midst of rituals and blessings. Cider may have humbler beginnings, but I look forward to the first crush of apples with the same excitement. Since the cider has been flowing for a while, enjoy this punch as an alternative to the hot, cinnamon-infused variety you may have been enjoying since the season began. Serve it chilled and enjoy the warmth that comes from aromatic vanilla, molasses, and…
-
Berry Iced Tea
When you’re headed for the road (beach trip!) or it’s too early in the day for cocktails, you still need something summery in hand. Drinks should be fresh and festive even when they are non-alcoholic. Long, scorching days signal access to ripe berries, making this the perfect time of year for an iced white tea with juicy raspberries and blueberries. White teas have a delicate sweetness that marries well with their flavors. Harvested when the tea leaves are still young, white varieties also are lighter and often more refreshing than green and black teas. I recommend selecting one with fruity notes for this recipe. Grab your muddler and read on.…
-
Candied Orange Margarita
Candied fruit slices are delicious and luxe looking, which makes them perfect for the holidays. Glistening in the pan and sparkly under kitchen lights, they always remind me of ornaments. Enjoy them on their own or as an accompaniment to a slice of cake, but make sure to reserve the syrup left in the pan to make a candied orange margarita. Ingredients Candied Orange Slices 1 unwaxed orange 2 cups water 1 cup sugar Candied Orange Margarita 1 ounce reposado tequila ½ ounce Cointreau ½ ounce candied orange syrup Juice of 1 large lime Salt for rim optional Rows of candied fruit slices drying on racks are quite a sight.…
cooking classes + wholesome recipes + mindful living
