Strawberry-Balsamic Cocktail

by Katie Sweeney 6

Whenever I come across strawberries that are about to go bad — the mushy ones with lots of wrinkles and a deep red color — I set them aside and use them in a cocktail. Many recipes involve muddling the strawberries to extract the juices, so it doesn't really matter if they aren't the prettiest of berries. For adventurous home mixologists, I highly recommend you make use of blemished berries with this recipe for a strawberry-balsamic crush. It's an interesting drink with sweet, tart, and savory notes hitting the palate, one after another. Don't skip the freshly-ground black pepper garnish; it takes this amazing concoction to a whole new level. Seriously, this is a must make for home bartenders; it's a superb libation! Get the recipe after the break.

From 101 Mojitos and Other Muddled Drinks by Kim Haasarud and Alexandra Grablewski

Strawberry-Balsamic Crush

Ingredients

2 ripe strawberries, hulled, plus 1 for garnish
1 teaspoon aged balsamic vinegar
1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce simple syrup
1 1/2 ounces vodka
Freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a mixing glass, muddle 2 of the strawberries with the vinegar, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the vodka and top with ice. Shake vigorously.
3. Either strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice or into a chilled martini glass.
4. Top with a twist of fresh ground black pepper. Garnish with the remaining strawberry.

Makes 1 drink.

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