Every year, we get loads of requests asking for unique and festive cocktails to mix up at parties. Although things like Spicy Mulled Cider and Hot Buttered Rum are usually the go-to options, this Pumpkin Chai Latte Matini is sure to turn a few heads. With vanilla vodka, pumpkin liqueur, and chai-infused cream, this is a festive combination of flavors that won't disappoint. Watch how bartender Brenda Marry makes it here or just follow the recipe below.
Trick: If you can't find Voyant Chai Cream Liqueur just substitute Baileys Irish Cream.
Ingredients:
3 oz. Stoli Vanilla Vodka
1.5 oz. Voyant Chai Cream Liqueur
1/2 oz. Pumpkin Liqueur
2 graham crackers, crushed
3-4 oz. simple syrup
Preparation:
1. Crush the graham crackers in a Ziploc bag with the back of a spoon and pour onto a small plate. Set aside.
2. Mix the following ingredients in a shaker with ice: Stoli Vanil, Voyant Chai Cream Liqueur and Pumpkin Liqueur.
3. Take the martini glass and turn it upside down, dipping the rim of the glass in the simple syrup which will aid in adhering the crushed graham crackers to the rim.
4. Strain the liquid into the glass, being carefully not too fill too close to the top. Enjoy!
With winter upon us and increasing talk of snow flurries in New York, I've been turning to all my favorite comfort foods to stay warm (and, of course, well-insulated). Topping my list of cold-weather favorites is the orecchiette with sausage, salumi and bitter greens at L'Artusi in the West Village.
Headed by Del Posto veteran Chef Gabe Thompson and wine director Joe Campanale, L'Artusi is serving up regional Italian fare with a stellar wine selection to match. This orecchiette dish is a standout though— with subtly spiced sausage, rich salami and a refreshing crunch from the greens, this is a winter wonder not to be missed.
Tip: L'Artusi is now open for brunch! Stop by to sample specialties like cottage cheese pancakes with French toast with poached pears or creamy polenta with eggs.
L'Artusi
228 West 10th Street
New York, NY 10014
212.255.5757
Although I've never been a fan of sweet and fruity cocktails, Alizé Red Passion is a welcome exception when used moderately. A splash of this added to a flute of Champagne or Prosecco is a fun twist on mimosas at brunch, while shaken up with tequila it creates a fun cocktail with a fruity kick for parties. Any way you mix it, Alizé is a great way to change of pace from the traditional spiced holiday flavors we're all so accustomed to during this time of year.
At 16 percent alcohol, this liqueur is made from premium French vodka and blended with passion fruit and cranberry to add a tartness and acidity that balances the sweetness.
Tip: Try adding Alizé Red Passion to red sangria for extra flavor.
I've always felt that hard cider is one of the world's most under-appreciated beverages. Although most ciders are often written off as being too sweet, too simple or just unseasonal, a well made cider can be one of the most food-friendly and enjoyable drinks out there.
Our drink of the day, Domaine Dupont's Reserve Apple Cider, is a perfect example of how great cider can really be. Made from bittersweet French apples juice and aged 6 months in Calvados casks, this cider has complex flavors of pineapple, dried apples, honey and cinnamon— the perfect holiday drink. With a fresh acidity and a just a hint of sweetness, this cider pairs perfectly with stewed meat dishes and even makes a great aperitif.
Tip: Store this cider for up to 5 years to allow it to ripen and develop.
Whenever I need energy, I usually reach for my morning cup (or three) of coffee to restore my tired self to my relatively normal self. Day in and day out, this is not the healthiest way to do things. In order to shape up, I've turned to Real Bar, a vegan energy bar with distant flavors of chocolate that's also wheat, gluten and soy free.
For those of you with allergies, this is also a great alternative. Real Bar is created in a wheat, gluten and peanut free facility. According to the wrapper, Real Bar "derives its concept from specific and determined lifestyle choices. Real Bar is made of organically grown, sustainable, fairly traded foods. Our goal is to serve you the most delicious, healthiest energy bar you've ever eaten." And it's true, these bars are delicious, a little decadent in the richness and totally good for you. I'll be leaving my coffee cup cold in the cabinet for good!
Tip: A Real Bar is not technically chocolate, but they do include raw organic fair trade dark chocolate. Use them to get a little fix and gain some energy in the process!
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