recipe: lemongrass lycheetini

Directions for lemongrass simple syrup:
1 C sugar
1 C water
4-5 stalks lemongrass, bruised and in pieces

In a saucepan over med-high heat, bring the sugar, water and lemongrass to a boil for 1 or 2 minutes. Remove from heat, strain out the lemongrass, and let cool. This mixture can be made a day in advance if kept in the refrigerator.

Directions for the martini:
3 oz vodka
2 tsp lemongrass simple syrup
splash of cranberry or pomegranate juice
splash of lychee juice
splash of club soda
garnish: slice of lime and a lychee

To a martini shaker half-full with ice, add vodka, syrup, juices and club soda. Shake to chill and blend, then strain into a martini glass.

Garnish with a slice of lime and a lychee skewered on a piece of lemongrass or a cocktail pick.

Adam’s hints:
—make the simple syrup a day in advance to save time the day of the party.
—the drink can be made in bulk, in advance, and kept in the fridge…just leave out the club soda until serving.