Spiced Cranberry Collins
1 1/2 ounces Vodka
1 ounces Spiced Cranberry Syrup (see subrecipe)
1/2 ounce fresh Lemon Juice
Club Soda
Combine the vodka, cranberry syrup and lemon juice in cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice, top with club soda (about 3 – 4 ounces). Serve garnished with fresh cranberries.
Yield: 1 cocktail
Spiced Cranberry Syrup
If you have any of this syrup left over, it’s tremendous on ice cream, panckakes, waffles or as a substitute for honey.
2 Cups Frozen Cranberries
1 Cup Granulated Sugar
1 Tsp Whole Black Peppercorns
1 Tsp Whole Cloves
2 Star Anise Pods
1 Tsp Grated Ginger
1 Cup Water
Bring water, sugar and spices to a boil in a saucepan. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Add the cranberries and bring to a boil again; stirring occasionally until they burst. Reduce heat and simmer until reduced to 1 cup, about 8 – 10 minutes, occasionally gently pressing the cranberries to release the juices. Remove from the heat and allow to cool. Strain through a fine mesh sieve. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Yield: 1 cup
