Recently I was invited to attend SAMPLE’s monthly cocktail course. Regular readers know about my penchant for their Roasted Pineapple Mojito and Lavender Honey Martini. I’m really much more of a beer or wine drinker, but SAMPLE’s cocktails are winners when it comes to the use of fresh, whole ingredients and innovation.
This month’s class provided students with a tutorial for three different cocktails, all of which were just lovely. The first was a punch featuring blood orange juice and vodka, another was a papaya margarita served with a chip of peanut and cumin brittle. Yum! The simplest drink, and perhaps the most seasonally appropriate was a simple mulled cider, perfect for the upcoming holidays or any winter event where the host is interested in serving a signature cocktail to guests. The recipe follows.
SAMPLE’s cocktail classes are taught by Patrick Wade, an enthusiastic mixologist. The next class is being offered on Wednesday, November 21 at 6pm. For only $20, participants will receive recipes, trade secrets and samples of the classic Cosmo (this one integrates cranberry sauce), an Autumn Martini flavored with pear and a Pomegranate Cocktail. A nice selection of hors d’oeuvres is also available and lends to the festive atmosphere of the class.
The hour-long session is fun, and a great way to begin a date or spend a happy hour. Classes fill up quickly, so call and make your reservations today. SAMPLE’s Cocktail Classes run the third Wednesday of every month, so clear your calendars.
Stay tuned to YUM; we’re proud to announce that we’ll be offering a regular feature with Patrick, who’ll demonstrate tips and techniques for preparing simple, modern cocktails.
SAMPLE’s Mulled Apple Cider
2 cinnamon sticks · 1 tsp whole Allspice · 1 tsp whole cloves · 1 pinch fresh peeled ginger · 1 tbsp orange zest · 1 quart cider · 8 oz. Captain Morgan or Jack Daniels · cheesecloth · kitchen string
Crush cinnamon stick and clove. Wrap cinnamon, cloves, allspice and ginger in a piece of cheesecloth and tie with string. Add cider and spices in cheesecloth to a medium sauce pan. Steep for 30 minutes on low heat. Ladle 1 cup of cider into a mug. Add 2 oz of liquor and garnish with a cinnamon stick. Cider can be served without liquor.
SAMPLE
242 Allen Street, Buffalo 14201
716.883.1675, call for hours