Sunday, November 20, 2011

Yuzu Gin & Tonic

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I can’t believe there are only a few days left before Thanksgiving (for those who live in the States)!  Are you ready for the celebration, gathering and fun?  I know it’s quite chilling out there especially for those who live in areas that have already started snowing.  If you are one of the 'lucky' few, you would probably consider serving a pot of hot apple ciders during your gatherings instead.  However, I think it’s also important to offer a variety of drinks at a party.  I mean, what is a celebration without a signature cocktail, right?  With your heater at full blast, I’m sure some of your Guests would appreciate a refreshing cocktail while celebrating the holidays with you.    Smile with tongue out

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I got a bottle of yuzu juice from a Japanese supermarket recently.  Originally, I purchased the yuzu juice to marinate some fish (I’ll post that recipe in the future).  Yuzu is a citrus fruit and plant originated in East Asia. It is believed to be a hybrid of sour mandarin and Ichang papeda. The fruit looks a bit like a very small grapefruit with an uneven skin, and can be either in yellow or green color depending on the level of ripeness.  The citrus flavor from a yuzu is very distinctive.  It’s a combination of tart, slightly sweet, and a hint of bitterness flavor.  In my opinion, it’s perfect for this cocktail!  If you can't find a Japanese or Asian market that carry the yuzu juice, you can also purchase it online here.

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This Yuzu Gin & Tonic is super easy to prepare.  Which means it is perfect for parties and gatherings! Here’s what I did.  I used an 6-ounce glass, filled with about 1/4 cup of crushed ice.  Add 10 splashes of yuzu juice (about 1/2 teaspoon), then add a shot of dry gin.  Last but not least, fill the glass with tonic water.  That’s it.  It’s unbelievably refreshing and tasty.  I’ve been enjoying this goodness ever since the first time I’ve mixed this cocktail up accidentally.

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Below is a close up picture of the yuzu bottle.  Make sure to get the 100% yuzu juice but not yuzu marinate or anything that has a “filler”.   If you look closer, you can see that I have almost finished the entire bottle already.  Gosh, I better get a new bottle before it runs out.  The yuzu juice is great in this cocktail and many marinate recipes.

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I hope you’ll try this easy and refreshing cocktail this holiday season in your gatherings.  Remember, know your limits and drink responsibly.  The most important thing is to have a fun and safe holiday.  I want to thank you all of you for reading and stopping by today.  I wish you and your family a fun, festive, and blessed Thanksgiving!  Don’t forget to count your blessings.  I know I have a long list and many reasons to be grateful for this year.  Happy Thanksgiving!

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Yuzu Gin & Tonic Printable Recipe
Serves 4 (feel free to double or triple the recipe for gatherings)
1 cup of crushed ice
2 teaspoons of yuzu juice
4 shots of dry gin
2 cups tonic water
4 citrus peel (for garnish)

Equally divide the crushed ice into 4 (6 ounce) glasses.  Add 10 splashes (about (1/2 teaspoon) of yuzu juice into each glass.  Then add a shot of dry gin in each glass and fill the glasses up with tonic water. Top with a citrus peel for garnish.  Enjoy!



14 comments:

  1. I'm so happy seeing my favorite yuzu extract bottle is up on your blog! I love that brand most. Here we can't find fresh yuzu and that's the closest thing. I am not very good with alcohol but I'm going to make this for my husband! He's a big yuzu fan just like me. He'll be enjoying this till last sip!!

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  2. Amy, I think I must visit you one day and you must serve me this drinks. haha...
    Frankly, I really feel like having one now.
    Hope you're having a wonderful day.
    Kristy

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  3. Amy,
    I don't drink alcohol much, but the yuzu sounds like it qwould make great ice cubes in a club soda drink!

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  4. That sounds delicious and looks like the perfect cocktail to me! Come visit us. We have pumpkin macaroni and cheese on the menu today.

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  5. @ Nami: Oh yeah, I love this yuzu juice. I couldn't find fresh yuzu in my corner of the town either. :) I'm sure your hubby will enjoy this cocktail.

    @Kristy: Sure, we can enjoy a few drinks and have a nice chat. I'm sure it'll be all wonderful.

    @Cinderella: If you don't drink alcohol, you can use mix the yuzu and 7-up and have a non-alcohol "cocktail". That would be just as delicious!

    @Carolinaheartstrings: Thanks you. I'm heading to your site now.

    Amy

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  6. Sounds like a refreshing cocktail.
    Mimi

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  7. I would like one right now please! Looks so refreshing...and I think this could be served anytime of year. Thanks so much for telling us about it!

    xo
    Pat

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  8. Oh. Oh. Oh.

    The first of my kids is home for the long holiday.

    I want one of those RIGHT NOW.

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  9. @ Erika: No problem. You'll get free refill as well. :)

    @Pat-Gypsy Heart: Oh yeah, I can enjoy this cocktail any time of the year. Hope you like it.

    @Josette: Oh yeah, it's a good idea to have some drinks and relax now before the busy holidays. :P

    Amy

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  10. That sounds refreshing, Amy. I'll see if I can find it in the Oriental store in Baton Rouge where we go. Thanks! Hope you all have a HAppy Thanksgiving....Christine

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  11. Mmm! I have always loved me a good gin & tonic -- since my college days (shhh, don't tell anyone; LOL)But yuzu takes it to a whole 'nother level. A great addition that I can't wait to try.

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  12. Great post for healthy life , its very easy to read and understand for anyone, This is great effort made by you for healthy fitness,
    Thank you for great support

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  13. Very Nice though on healthy tips. This can make everyone healthy and fitness to achieve their healthy life.
    Have a nice day, Thanks

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