31 December 2023

From the barista’s corner: Espresso with a Sidecar

Experimenting with the new coffee machine.

Espresso with a small serving of sparkling water (called Sidecar). This is not as common in the USA but fairly widespread in Europe. By my personal experience, most all cafes in Italy, Australia and Germany serve some sparkling water with a shot of espresso.

I believe the sparkling water is to clean your palate before having the espresso. Water is also often served with coffee in the Middle East. I assume the practice there is to keep dehydration at bay. Coffee is a fairly strong diuretic.

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24 November 2023

From the bartender’s corner – Four Roses and a Bee

Remember the honey based mead from Lithuania that is supposed to be one of the oldest alcohols that I got last week? Made a variation of the Bee’s Knees today. Tried first without the citric acid. Will try with lemon juice tomorrow. Instead of gin, used Bourbon.

Sharmila feels orange goes well with honey. Will try a variation with triple sec too.

Four Roses Bourbon and the Lithuanian Mead.

Strong on the palate – which fit the cold weather fine and very rich with honey on the nose.

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19 November 2023

My stash from Lithuania

Lithuania is famous for its bread and honey. It is especially known for its mead – which is an alcohol made from honey. The claim is that this is the oldest alcohol. Apparently, it is mentioned in the Rig Veda – which is a religious scripture in India from 6000 BC.

The part I do not get is this – honey is one of those food that is indestructible. Pure honey will stay as is for a million years. It never breaks down. How the heck do you ferment it then?

Well, I need to do some research.

Category: Cocktails, Vacations | LEAVE A COMMENT