Welcome 2014 with the award-winning chef's cocktail, which can also be handed over as a gift.
Mint-Flavored Vodka
Ingredients
- 2 large bunches fresh mint
- 1 bottle plain vodka
Preparation
Place the mint in a 2-quart pitcher. Pour the vodka over the mint and cover with plastic wrap. Allow the mixture to stand for at least 3 days at room temperature. Remove the mint and discard.
Yield: 3 cups
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Inactive Prep Time: 3 days
Homemade Ginger Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 (3-inch) piece of fresh ginger, peeled and chopped
Preparation
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and ginger over medium heat. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool, about 20 minutes. Strain before using.
Yield: 1 1/2 cups
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 11/2 cups ice
- 1 1/2 cups mint-flavored vodka
- 11/2 cups ginger simple syrup (recipe follows)
- 2 cups sparkling water
- fresh mint sprigs
- lime slices
- lemon slices
Preparation
For each cocktail fill a cocktail shaker with 1/4 cup of ice. Add 1/4 cup of mint-flavored vodka, 1/4 cup ginger syrup, and 1/3 cup of sparkling water. Shake and pour into a tall glass or flute. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs, lemon slices, and lime slices just before serving.
Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 2 minutes