Cocktails: Habanero Harvest

A warming, spiced and spicy cocktail, sign me up! A simple syrup made with classic Fall flavors and a habanero gives you an earthy and spicy base for this fun Fall drink. Halloween parties, Thanksgiving gathering… or just a Friday night! I went with tequila here because it is my favorite but you could also use mezcal, bourbon, vodka or even a spiced rum! One word of caution, habaneros can be HOT. I first made this allowing the habanero to soak for 15 minutes… good but very spicy. I went back and reduced the time to 5 minutes, but if you like it hot adjust accordingly! The syrup would also be great with club soda for a little something special too!

Habanero Harvest

Servings: 4
Difficulty: easy
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Habanero Harvest

(makes 4 cocktails)

Ingredients:

Harvest Simple Syrup

1 Cup sugar
1 Cup water
12 Whole allspice berries
8 Whole cloves
6 Cinnamon sticks
2 One inch slices of ginger
1 Habanero pepper halved and deseeded

simple syrup 2.JPG

Cocktail

1 Cup tequila such as Espolon Blanco or Reposado or alcohol of your choice
1 Cup blood orange juice
1/2 Cup Harvest Simple Syrup
1/4 Cup lime juice
8 Dashes of Bitters
Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

To make simple syrup:

Combine water and sugar in a small sauce pan. Add allspice, clove, cinnamon sticks and ginger.
Bring to a boil and simmer until sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off heat and add the habanero pepper.
Remove pepper after 5 minutes (longer if you want it spicier!) and discard.
Allow the syrup to stand a room temperature for another 55 minutes to allow the spice to infuse.
Strain syrup into a jar and throw away spices. Chill syrup in fridge. It will keep in fridge for weeks!

Simple Syrup.JPG

To make cocktail:

In large pitcher or extra large mason jar combine all ingredients listed under Cocktail ingredients above. Stir or shake well.
Pour over your ice filled favorite glass and garnish with a lime wedge.
Enjoy!

habanero harvest SMALLER