recipe
LEMON OLEO, ROSEMARY, AND BUTTERFLY PEA FLOWER COCKTAIL Recipe courtesy Matt Foster (Culinary Canvas); Photo courtesy RJ Hartbeck ingredients method
1 oz lemon oleo (lemon peel-infused sugar syrup) 2 oz gin 1 oz fresh lemon juice 1 sprig fresh rosemary ½ oz butterfly pea flower tea (steeped and chilled) Ice Club soda Rosemary sprig for garnish
1. Prepare Lemon Oleo: Peel three to four lemons, avoiding the white pith. Combine the lemon peels with 1 cup of sugar in a sealed container. Let it sit for at least 24 hours until the sugar has dissolved into a syrup infused with lemon oils. 2. Steep Butterfly Pea Flower Tea: Steep 1 T of butterfly pea flowers in ½ cup of hot water for five minutes. Strain and chill the tea. 3 . Make the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, muddle the fresh rosemary sprig to release its oils. Add the lemon oleo, gin, fresh lemon juice, and ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. 4. Assemble the drink: Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice. Gently pour the butterfly pea flower tea over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect. Top with a splash of club soda for a bit of fizz. 5. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
•
Use clear glassware: The right glassware enhances the visual impact of ombre cocktails. To fully showcase the ombre effect, serve your drinks in tall, clear glasses like highballs or Collins glasses. Lighting matters: Proper lighting can amplify the beauty of ombre cocktails. Strategically place soft, ambient lighting around the bar area to highlight the drinks. LED coasters or light- up drink stirrers can add an extra layer of visual interest, especially for evening events. Pour slowly: When adding each layer, pour slowly over the back
The Beet Blaze. Photo courtesy Matt Foster of a spoon to help the liquids float rather than mix. Experiment with colors: Don’t be afraid to play with different juices, liqueurs, and spirits to create unique color combinations. Temperature control: Colder liquids are denser, so chilling the components can help maintain distinct layers.
“Ombre and layered cocktails are more than just drinks; they are an experience,” says Sanchez. “They embody the perfect blend of art and mixology, delighting the senses both visually and taste-wise. Incorporating these into events not only elevates the beverage menu but also enhances the overall aesthetic and ambiance, making any occasion unforgettable.” Cheers! * LUX Catering & Events is a proud member of the Leading Caterers of America, a consortium of the top catering and event planners throughout the United States and Canada.
•
•
•
In the end, the allure of ombre cocktails lies in their perfect blend of beauty and taste. These cocktails bring a splash of color and a touch of elegance that will make your event truly unforgettable.
•
CATERSOURCE ■ FALL 2024
3 7
Powered by FlippingBook