Even as countries reopen and lockdowns are relaxed, most of us are still not ready for crowded bars, busy restaurants or gatherings en masse. The threat of Covid-19 still exists and with some countries heading to a second wave of infections. It is therefore best to stay low key and create moments and memories at home – either alone or with a select and small group of friends.
Here are some simple lockdown cocktail recipes to inspire the mixologist in you.
1. Pina Colada
If you have always loved the tropical treats that Pina Coladas are, enjoyed Walter Mitty and know all the lyrics to Escape by Rupert Holmes, this drink is a must. You can easily make this popular cocktail at home and enjoy it while lounging at the pool or on your balcony.
Ingredients:
- 50ml white rum
- 200ml pineapple juice
- 25ml coconut cream
- 25ml single cream
Recipe:
- Take a shaker and add all the ingredients.
- Mix well.
- Serve over ice.
2. Negroni
A Negroni is a simple yet classic Italian drink that anyone and everyone can appreciate. Bitter, dry, sweet, this refreshing drink is perfect for a hot day. If you’ re planning on enjoying authentic Negroni, make sure you stir – and don’t shake. You can also make a French Negroni if you are celebrating life with a premium alcohol like Louis XIII cognac.
Ingredients:
- 30ml dry gin – or cognac
- 30ml sweet vermouth
- 30ml Campari
Recipe:
- Add all the ingredients into a shaker.
- Stir it well with ice.
- Add ice into a glass and strain the drink over it.
- Garnish with orange peel, and your Negroni is ready
3. Mojito
For all the right reasons, Mojito is a very popular drink. An ideal accompaniment to your meal, well-matched to a movie night and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- five fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 50ml golden rum
- Soda water
- Half lemon, cut into four small pieces
Recipe:
- Put lemon, sugar, and mint leaves in a glass and mash them together.
- Add the rum.
- Top it with soda water, and your mojito is ready.
4. Long Island Iced Tea
Yet another favourite cocktail that people enjoy is the Long Island Iced Tea. Made with generous blend of spirits, it can be a great drink for uplifting the mood. It comes with a warning though – the delicious taste might have you wanting more than one, so make sure you keep count. Good thing there’ll be no driving …
Ingredients:
- 25ml tequila
- 25ml rum
- 25ml vodka
- 25ml gin
- 25ml lime juice
- Coke
Recipe:
- Add all the alcohol in a shaker, along with lime juice, and mix well.
- Take a glass and put ice in it.
- Pour the drink over and add coke.
5. Manhattan
If you are a whiskey lover you should try creating a classic Manhattan. Even if you are just beginning to experiment with the gold magic that whiskey is, a Manhattan is a great introduction. Made with whiskey, bitters, and vermouth, a sweet manhattan can ultimately become your favourite.
Ingredients:
- 30ml sweet vermouth
- 60ml whiskey
- Two dashes bitters like Angostura
Recipe:
- Add the ingredients in a shaker with cracked ice.
- Shake it thoroughly and then strain it into a glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist or cherries.
6. Daiquiri
One of the classic yet sour cocktails like Daiquiri can brighten up your lockdown days. Notoriously famous among the likes of Kennedy and Hemingway, it continues to delight today.
Ingredients:
- 60ml white rum
- 30ml fresh lime juice
- 20ml simple syrup
Recipe:
- Take a mixing glass, add the ingredients and ice.
- Shake it well.
- Strain into a coupe.
7. Mimosa
If you have a bottle of sparkling wine at home, it deserves to have that cork popped. Add a little bit of orange liquor or juice tfor a refreshing twist to your sparkling wine. Good with your weekend breakfast.
Ingredients:
- 750ml chilled wine or champagne
- 750ml orange juice
Recipe:
- Pour sparkling wine to half full.
- Top it off with orange juice, and your mimosa is ready.
Being confined to home can be a little tedious, even if like in my case it’s a conscious decision and I am only emerging for the occasional meeting a family lunch. If you are yearning for more fun, especially over the weekend and with public holidays – like tomorrow’s Heritage Day in South Africa – this may offer some inspiration to see you through this period.
** Needless to say, single-use plastic straws and swizzle stick are not acceptable. Reusables only.
** Pics sourced off Pexels.
