"drink recipe" news and stories

Every year, The Improper Bostonian has a "Beloved Bartenders" issue. They name the top bartenders in the city, do a little profile on them, and give the recipe for their signature cocktail. This week I'll be highlighting a different one each day, some of the more interesting drinks that are listed in the issue.

First up, the Lemon-Thyme Gimlet, from Lynam Hennessy, bartender at Pomodoro, on Harvard Ave. in Brookline. I've been drinking gimlets since reading about them in Raymond Chandler novels, and this is a twist on the classic recipe.

New Year's Eve, coming right in the middle of winter (for most of us) as well as in the middle of the night, is not always the warmest occasion. There is the body heat of standing in Times Square with thousands upon thousands of other people, but there's no denying the fact that near freezing temperatures and a combination of rain and snow are less than pleasant to be out in.  A warm drink is perfectly suited for the occasion. In fact, this combination of peppermint and hot chocolate is warming, chocolatey and almost refreshing. If you don't want to use schnapps, add about a half teaspoon of peppermint extract. Don't forget a peppermint stick or candy cane as garnish and a marshmallow or two!

Peppermint Spiked Hot Chocolate
6-8 ounces hot chocolate
1 1/2 ounces peppermint schnapps
peppermint stick
marshmallows

Prepare hot chocolate according to directions. Add peppermint schnapps and stir with a peppermint stick. Add marshmallows, to taste, before drinking.
Serves 1.

[Photo by Nicole Weston]