Spiked Hibiscus Lemonade

The Lowdown:

So what do you do after one of those days that you actually accomplish you're list of tasks (or completed a few, then threw the list away)? Well, one could make a new list of chores to do... Or, a better option is to kick back and relax. A much better option in my humble opinion. Keep it simple ya know; there will always be another day to do chores. Besides, life is about enjoying the simpler things sometimes. For example, a nice lemonade on a moderately hot, sunny day. Put a couple of ounces of citrus vodka in that lemonade and life becomes even simpler. Well, maybe I become simpler and life remains just as complex. Either way, spike the damn lemonade.

I've recently come across a fun, and simple, way to make classic cocktails different. Or new cocktails all together for that matter. A way to add a new essence to them -- a spin if you will. Have too many, and it definitely adds a spin(s) on life. Oh man, I crack myself up. Sometimes I think it's good that you can only read what I'm writing and not see how I'm acting. Ahhh, the beauty of the written word. 

So this new simple idea is (drum roll... extended drum roll...) -- simple syrup. Although sometimes the simple syrup isn't so simple. I've been bouncing ideas of different infusions for the last few weeks and there are as many options as your imagination can think of. Cardamom ginger simple syrup -- why not? What's better than that, is just how cheap it is -- water, sugar, infusable ingredients. What's even better than that, is that you'll never have to use pop ever again. What's even better than that is I'm already on the patio enjoying it. Of course, you can feel free to keep yours virgin. I however, have just almost complete my list of chores so I deserve a stiff one. Cheers.

The Playlist:

2 oz Citrus vodka
1 oz Hibiscus simple syrup*
1 Lemon, juiced
3 dashes Peach bitters (or any fruit bitters)

Variations

5 Blackberries, muddled
Top with soda (optional)

2 Strawberries, muddled
1/2 cm Ginger, muddled
Top with soda (optional)




*In pot: put three parts sugar, three parts water, one part dried hibiscus flowers then put on medium heat until sugar dissolves. Set aside and allow to cool. Strain out hibiscus.

The Skinny:

1. Muddle fruit in martini shaker, then add all of the ingredients (except for the soda if you are choosing to use this). Add ice and shake vigorously.
2. Strain over a rocks glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish how ever you'd like to.
4. Sit on your patio and enjoy.

Stay Rad - h

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