Crop Circles

Lucky Cat

Quite a while ago, Ryan and I had lunch at PF Chang's China Bistro. Feeling adventurous, I ordered a Lucky Cat martini; I loved it. It is quite a sweet drink, mixing the flavors of pineapple, raspberry, and vanilla. Perfect for dessert.



Lucky Cat Martini

2 oz. Smirnoff Vanilla Vodka
1 oz Dole Pineapple Juice
0.5 oz of Chambord, sink in center of glass

Shake together vodka, pinapple juice, and ice. Strain into a martini glass. Carefully pour in 0.5oz Chambord; it will sit on the bottom of the drink. Garnish with a wedge of fresh pineapple.

Enjoy!

Loot.

Belgian chocolates are a unique indulgance. This set of Galler is one of the delicious lines of chocolate we returned with.

Mint Julep

Happy Derby Day!

In honor of Kentucky Derby tradition, I whipped up a batch of mint juleps this afternoon. For a twist on the classic cocktail, ginger was added to the simple syrup.

Ginger Mint Julep
adapted from Better Homes and Gardens

Ingredients
3/4 cup water
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 2-inch piece ginger, thinly sliced
1/2 cup bourbon
1-1/2 cup mint sprigs, loosely packed
Crushed Ice
Long strips of lemon peel

Directions
1. For syrup, in small saucepan combine water, sugar and sliced ginger; bring to boiling; stir to dissolve sugar. Cover and simmer 5 minutes. Remove from heat; cool. Strain; discard ginger.

2. Divide mint among 6 small glasses or silver mint julep cups. Add 2 tablespoons ginger syrup to each glass. With a spoon, stir to bruise mint. Divide bourbon evenly among glasses; fill with ice.