Chai Infused Vermouth Food

CHAI INFUSED VERMOUTH

Steps:

• In a sterile container, add chai leaves, cinnamon stick and sweet vermouth.
• Cover for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Strain through a cheese cloth. Can last up to 1 year shelved in dark, lit space.

CHAI-INFUSED SWEET VERMOUTH

Steps:

• Place the cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger in a small saucepan over low heat and heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add the tea and 1 cup of the vermouth. Bring to a low boil for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool completely. Add the remaining vermouth and strain the mixture through cheesecloth. Bottle and store at room temperature. Will keep indefinitely.

BASIL VERMOUTH COOLER

Steps:

• Make basil-infused dry vermouth: Place the basil in one hand and use the other to lightly slap the leaves, releasing the aromatics. Add the leaves to the vermouth either in the bottle itself or in a large, clean container. (You may need to pour out an ounce of vermouth to fit in all the leaves. If this is the case, pour the vermouth into a glass with an ice cube and garnish with a citrus twist. Drink while you infuse the rest.) Cover and set aside to infuse at room temperature for 3 hours. Strain the vermouth through a fine-mesh strainer, removing and discarding the basil leaves, and rebottle in the original bottle. Store in the refrigerator and use the basil-infused vermouth within 3 weeks.
• Make the cocktail: Fill a Collins or highball glass with ice. Add the sherry, basil-infused vermouth and olive brine. Top with tonic and soda water. Place the basil sprig in one hand and use the other to lightly slap the leaves, releasing the aromatics. Garnish with the basil, lemon peel and olives.