Hello, Wellies, and welcome to Winter! Every year, we get asked for a few non-alcoholic drink ideas as some of our members partake in dry February. After all the indulgences of the festive season, it’s a way to reset our bodies and get back to our routines. It’s Robert Mills, your resident chef and flavour maestro, here to let you in on some good news and share in the excitement of dry February with a twist – or should I say, a shake and a stir? As we embark on this alcohol-free adventure, I’m thrilled to introduce you to my favourite mocktails that will tantalize your taste buds and make your dry February a month to remember. They are tasty and I’ll bet you won’t miss the alcohol one bit.
The Zesty Citrus Fizz
Let’s kick things off with a burst of citrusy goodness. My Zesty Citrus Fizz combines freshly squeezed orange juice, a splash of grapefruit, and a hint of lime for that perfect tang. Top it off with a splash of soda water and garnish with a twist of orange peel. It’s a refreshing blend that will transport you to a sunny citrus grove with every sip.
Berry Bliss Cooler
For a burst of berrylicious delight, try my Berry Bliss Cooler. Muddle a handful of mixed berries – strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries – in a shaker. Add a dash of honey syrup, a squeeze of lemon juice, and ice. Shake it up and strain it into a glass filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint, and voila – a vibrant, refreshing mocktail that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Tropical Sunrise Punch
Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with my Tropical Sunrise Punch. In a shaker, mix pineapple juice, coconut water, and a splash of orange juice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. To create that mesmerizing sunrise effect, gently pour a bit of grenadine down the side of the glass. Watch as it sinks and then slowly rises, creating a beautiful layered look. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a cherry – you’ll be sipping on sunshine in no time.
Ginger Spice Elevation
For those who crave a bit of warmth and spice, my Ginger Spice Elevation is the perfect choice. In a mixing glass, muddle fresh ginger slices with a dash of cinnamon syrup. Add apple juice and ice, then stir well. Strain into a glass and garnish with a cinnamon stick and apple slices. The combination of ginger and spice will elevate your taste buds to new heights, making this mocktail a comforting and flavorful option for dry February.
Favourite warm Spiced Mulled Apple Cider
Ingredients:
4 cups apple cider
2 cinnamon sticks
4 whole cloves
4 whole allspice berries
1 orange, thinly sliced
1 lemon, thinly sliced
1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Optional: Star anise for extra flavor
Instructions:
In a large pot, combine the apple cider, cinnamon sticks, cloves, allspice berries, orange slices, and lemon slices.
Add honey or maple syrup to the pot and stir well.
Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Be careful not to boil.
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the cider.
Remove the pot from heat and strain the mulled cider to remove the spices and fruit slices.
Serve the spiced mulled apple cider in mugs, and if desired, garnish with a cinnamon stick or a slice of orange.
Curl up with your warm mug and savor the comforting and aromatic Spiced Mulled Apple Cider on a chilly winter day and let the delightful flavour soothe your soul.
Non-Alcoholic Classic Hot Buttered Rum
Ingredients:
2 cups hot water
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
A pinch of salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
In a saucepan, heat the water until it’s almost boiling.
In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, honey, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
Slowly add the hot water to the butter and spice mixture, stirring continuously until the butter is melted and the ingredients are well combined.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the hot buttered rum mixture into mugs.
If desired, top each mug with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth of this non-alcoholic hot buttered rum!
This delicious drink captures the rich and spiced flavors of traditional hot buttered rum, making it a perfect choice for a cozy evening by the fire or a chilly winter night.
There you have it – my top picks for mocktails that will make dry February an unforgettable experience. So, gather your friends, come on down to our cozy haven, and let’s savor the joy of vibrant flavors without the spirits. Cheers to a month filled with delicious memories and a healthier, happier you!
Chef Robert Mills.