“Fresh produce” and “winter” don’t usually find themselves together in the same sentence, but even in the dead of winter, there are certain fruits and vegetables that are in-season. That means there’s no reason why your winter cocktails need to be boring; there are plenty of goodies at your local market to keep your drinks fresh.

 

Blood Orange Mulled WineBloodOrangeWine

Winter is all about the mulled wine, so combining it with the flavor of a blood orange makes it even better. You can serve this blood orange mulled wine warm or at room temp.

 

  • In a large pot, heat 1 bottle of red wine (cheap stuff is fine), 9 oz. sweet vermouth, juice of 1/2 blood orange plus zest, and 4 cinnamon sticks over low heat. Cook for 10 minutes.

 

  • Ladle into mugs or glasses (this recipe serves 6). Add a few dashes of bitters and 1 slice of blood orange into the glass as a garnish.

 

We Got The Beet CocktailBeetCocktail

Beets are not a popular cocktail ingredient, but we think you’re going to be pleasantly surprised with the taste and color. The name is one of the cheesiest we’ve ever come by but we’ll look past it for a good sip.

 

  • In a mixing glass, combine 1 1/2 oz. tangerine vodka, 1/2 oz. ginger syrup (follow link above for ginger syrup recipe), 1/4 oz. orange juice, and 1/4-1/2 oz. of fresh beet juice. Add ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.

 

  • Strain into a Collins glass filled with 3 block ice cubes.

 

  • Top with seltzer and garnish with raw beets that have been sliced paper thin

 

KalejitoKalejito

Mom always told us to eat our vegetables, so we’re putting them in our cocktails. This kalejito is healthy twist on the mojito and an interesting way to consume your leafy greens.

 

  • In a blender, combine 2 tsp. superfine sugar, 4 oz. white rum, 1/2 cup packed torn kale leaves, 1/2 cup packed mint leaves and the juice of 2 limes (about 1/4 cup). Blend on high speed.

 

  • Pour over two ice-filled glasses. Garnish with mint sprigs and serve immediately.

 

Even though it’s slim pickings when it comes to winter produce, there are some solid ingredients that will give you a good cocktail. Share your recipes below and we’ll try them out.