The Spirit World

This article is by guest author, Denise Hall who contributes regularly to our sister blog, Fit Fare.

I had fun developing the drink themes for our annual Mardi Gras Party. A few months ago Donavan and I went to eat at a local Cajun restaurant. When we inquired about Louisiana themed cocktails the bar staff offered to make us their version of a Cajun Martini — vodka mixed with jalepeno juice. We both agreed that it was probably the worst drink we had ever tried. I knew I could do better.

Since the main difference between creole and cajun cooking is the liberal use of tomatoes my version of a Creole Cocktail is similar to a Bloody Mary. My Cajun Cocktail is based on a recipe for French Martini to represent the French Heritage of the Cajun community. And what kind of Mardi Gras party could it be without a Hurricane Cocktail (my less alcoholic, more sweet version of the traditional Hurricane?

For those who are looking for some non-alcoholic party drinks, check out Brenda’s article on unleaded drinks for Mardi Gras.

Cajun Cocktail

• 1 oz gin
• 1-1/2 oz pineapple juice
• splash strawberry liquor

Pour over ice. Shake. Pour into Martini glasses.

Hurricane Cocktail

• 3/4 oz white rum
• 1/4 oz Bacardi 151
• 1 oz orange juice
• 1 oz sugar syrup (1/2 water & 1/2 sugar)
• 1 tsp Grenadine
• 1 tsp lime juice

Pour over ice. Shake. Pour into Martini glasses. Use cherries with stems & orange slice to garnish.

Creole Cocktail

• 1 oz vodka
• 2 1/2 oz Spicy V8 Cocktail

Half fill a Martini glass with crushed ice. Add vodka and V8. Stir and garnish with pickled okra.