Cocktails

Ashley & Khalil load up on exotic ingredients during an afternoon in Chinatown.

By Ashley Hymore

It's very easy to get inspired in New York. A quick walk or train ride can take you to the heart of one of the city's many ethnic neighborhoods, where there's plenty of authentic markets selling traditional goods.  Greek stores in Astoria, Queens (my neighborhood!), Mexican in Spanish Harlem, Italian in Cobble Hill, Indian in the Lower East Side, and Chinese in Chinatown, where my brother and I found ourselves a few weeks ago.  On our to-do list: steamed roasted pork buns, hot beef jerky (my brother talked me into that one!), and the markets, where you can find exotic ingredients that will make your eyes pop and jaws drop, all without breaking the bank.  Walking through the aisles, my basket became full with lychee and tamarind juice, passionfruit puree, a variety of spices, and coconut milk.  Plus, who could forget the pickled mango in chili spices my brother convinced me would make a memorable garnish for a cocktail?  We'll see about that!

Continue reading "Lychee Mojito" »

Ashley gives an umbrella drink a makeover with a sprig of sage.

By Ashley Hymore

One of the easiest places for me to become inspired is at the Union Square Greenmarket. It's there that I can find bushels of heirloom produce and fresh cut flowers in brilliant colors, all in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city. I love to roam the market slowly (while eating an apple cider doughnut, of course!) and take the time to talk to the different farmers and vendors. They're always eager to let me know what is particularly good that week. It is also here where I can bring home some just-picked herbs to enhance a cocktail, fresh lemonade, or iced tea.

Continue reading "Drink of the Week: Pineapple Sage Daiquiri" »

Enjoy your May flowers with this refreshing cocktail!

By Ashley Hymore

Reward all of mom's hard work a pitcher at a time, because the last thing you want to do on Mother's Day is make a cocktail one by one. I updated the traditional brunch mimosa into a pitcher format using mangos and mint. I love using tropical juices in cocktails because it makes everything seem much more exotic. The sweet mango is balanced by the orange juice, and the mint gives the cocktail a wonderful refreshing quality.

Continue reading "Drink of the Week: Mint Mango Mimosas" »

By Ashley Hymore

Simple syrup is a bartender's best friend. It's great to keep on hand to sweeten cocktails or other cold beverages, such as iced tea or iced coffee.

Continue reading "Cocktail: Simple Syrup" »

By Ashley Hymore

Whipping up cocktails in big batches can be a party lifesaver for any hostess. You can make it in advance and leave it out for guests to help themselves. How easy is that?

Continue reading "Cocktail: Creamsicle Pitcher" »

By Ashley Hymore

For me, winter is all about citrus and I use it in all of my kitchen creations, especially cocktails.

Continue reading "Cocktail: Grapefruit Fizz" »

By Ashley Hymore

To me, nothing announces the arrival of autumn more than hot apple cider, and this recipe will warm up even the coldest days.  Since there are just a few ingredients in this drink, it is important that they are good quality.  I recommend buying apple cider from your local farm stand or farmer's market.

Continue reading "Cocktail: Spiced Spiked Cider" »

By Ashley Hymore

I love this cocktail! It is so easy and dresses up an inexpensive bottle of Cava, or any sparkling wine, beautifully. Plus, the cranberry infused simple syrup and candied cranberries can be made days in advance, so all you have to do the day of your party is pop the cork!

Continue reading "Cocktail: Cranberry Cocktail" »

By Ashley Hymore

This cocktail is all about fall flavors. I know maple syrup is usually reserved for the breakfast table, but it is a good substitute for simple syrup, and blends perfectly with the smokiness of the bourbon and the orange from the Cointreau.

Continue reading "Cocktail: Maple Tea" »

By Ashley Hymore

When I started developing cocktails for wetv.com, I knew that I had to include St. Germain liqueur, which is made from handpicked elderflowers.  I absolutely love the elegant tropical and floral flavor it brings to this drink.   

Continue reading "Cocktail: Ruby Blossom" »