Unwind with a Festive Pear Cocktail
As households wind down, with some preparing for an overnight pig roast and others wrapping gifts, a well-deserved cocktail is in order on this eve before Christmas. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the past two days filled with cooking, baking, errands, gift finalizations, and cleaning, the winding-down process has begun. As the late evening sets in, there are still a few tasks to complete, but a festive honey pear cocktail is the perfect way to kickstart the Christmas celebrations.
In the backdrop of a Christmas playlist and the warm glow of candles, I'm testing out tomorrow's outfit – a long glitter dress with an open back or a simple yet elegant champagne-colored silk gown. The air is uncertain globally, with many facing lockdowns and loneliness during the holidays. Let's take a moment to make those distant phone calls and extend a helping hand to those in need. My parents are opting for a quiet Christmas in the countryside, and despite the sadness, it's the responsible thing to do. This year has shown us the reality of uncertainty, and whether celebrating with loved ones or choosing to skip Christmas, let's be grateful for the small things.
Amidst the coziness of our house and the flickering lights of our stunning tree, I'm ready to sip on this honey-roasted pear cocktail I found on Pinterest, despite Siena having a puppy flu and a little coffee mishap with our linen curtains.
Ingredients:
5 pears, sliced in half
3-5 tablespoons honey
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Pinch of cinnamon
Pinch of ground nutmeg & ground clove
2 tbsp apple juice or water
1 tsp vanilla paste
Sparkling wine
Garnish: dried clementine slices & rosemary
Brown sugar to coat the glass rims
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Line a baking tray with a greased sheet.
Place the halved pears (remove stems) on the tray.
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Brush this over the pears.
Bake for about 25 minutes until browned and soft.
Once cooled, remove the seeds with a spoon. Place into a blender with the vanilla paste and apple juice or water. Blitz into a puree.
Scoop the puree into a mason jar and refrigerate until served.
When ready to serve:
In a pitcher, combine some pear puree, a pinch of ground clove, 3 tablespoons of runny honey, and your choice of alcohol. Mix together.
Coat the cocktail glass rims with brown sugar by adding lemon to the sides and placing the rims into some brown sugar.
Pour the cocktail into the glasses and garnish with a twig of rosemary and a dried clementine slice.
Cheers to a delightful and relaxing pre-Christmas celebration!
