The Spirit World

This weekend I’ll be celebrating a milestone birthday. And, as is usual, I’ll be competing with the rest of the world who will be celebrating Halloween - at least in those countries where Halloween or All Souls Day is celebrated. Over the years I’ve gotten used to sharing the event but just for today, it’s going to be all about me!

The cocktail today is indicative of the milestone. The appetizer seems like a good complement.

Bronx Golden Cocktail

• 1 oz gin
• 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
• 1/2 oz dry vermouth
• 3/4 oz orange juice
• 1 egg yolk

Shake in iced cocktail shaker & strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange slice.

This appetizer is super easy. You can buy the shrimp cooked and peeled and even buy pre-made cocktail sauce. But this recipe for homemade sauce is really good and only takes a few minutes to mix together.

Shrimp and Cocktail Sauce

• 1 lb of cooked, peeled shrimp, 32 - 40 per pound

Cocktail Sauce

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup chili sauce
• 2 tbsp horseradish
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• salt & pepper to taste

Combine cocktail sauce ingredients and refrigerate overnight, if possible. Can keep up to one week in the refrigerator.