Recipes 363

Alexus Davila recently visited David’s restaurant, where they celebrated National Cocktail Day by showcasing a variety of premium craft cocktails and mocktails. Alongside Food and Beverage Manager Dorothy Marshall, Alexus sampled some of the establishment’s best offerings, signaling the arrival of spring with refreshing drink options. David’s aims to provide a unique experience for guests, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the vibrant flavors of the season.

As we approach the midpoint of the 10th annual Alcohol Free for 40 Challenge, it’s common for motivation to wane, making it essential to keep things fresh with non-alcoholic beverages. Whether you’re participating in this challenge, observing Lent, or choosing to cut back on alcohol for personal reasons, this is an ideal chance to experiment with new flavors.

A compelling method to enhance your alcohol-free drinks is the addition of functional ingredients—specifically adaptogens and botanicals that promote physical and mental wellness, adding depth to your zero-proof cocktails.

Bar manager Paul Loggins from Zuzul Coastal Cuisine in Shreveport, seven years sober, has honed his skills in creating sophisticated alcohol-free beverages featuring ingredients like Ashwagandha, L-theanine, lemon balm, and lavender. Here, we discuss the potential benefits of these ingredients and how to incorporate them into your zero-proof favorites. They can also be added to smoothies, teas, or other drinks.

Important Note: Some of these ingredients may lower blood pressure or blood sugar and can interact with medications such as sedatives and antidepressants. Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before trying new supplements.

Energize and Focus

• L-Theanine

  • Description: Found naturally in green tea, it promotes calmness and alertness.
  • Benefits: It may improve cognitive function and focus without causing jitters.
  • Dosage: Typically, 200-400 mg daily.
  • Use: Its savory flavor fits well in citrusy or herbal drinks.

• Ashwagandha

  • Description: An adaptogenic herb that helps the body handle stress.
  • Benefits: May lower cortisol levels, enhance sleep, and improve mental focus.
  • Dosage: Around 600-1000 mg daily.
  • Use: Its earthy flavor complements various profiles.

Relax and Unwind

• Lemon Balm

  • Description: A lemon-scented herb from the mint family that alleviates stress.
  • Benefits: Can reduce anxiety, boost mood, and enhance sleep quality.
  • Dosage: Aim for 600 to 1200 mg daily.
  • Use: Citrus and herbal flavor, pairs well with multiple flavors.

• Lavender

  • Description: A fragrant botanical known for its calming effects.
  • Benefits: May alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms.
  • Dosage: Commonly around 80-160 mg daily.
  • Use: Its floral notes require moderation in use.

Ready-to-Drink Zero Proof Cocktails

For those seeking convenient options to share at gatherings or outdoor events, many brands now offer canned zero-proof cocktails infused with functional ingredients. One notable brand is Peak Cocktails, which provides transparency on the sugar content and amount of beneficial ingredients, such as 200 mg of Ashwagandha and L-theanine.

Conclusion

While the integration of functional ingredients into your beverage routines can offer noteworthy benefits, they’re not a substitute for overall healthy living, which should include staying physically active and sleeping well. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements, especially if you have any medical conditions or take prescription medications.

Cheers to discovering new flavors and making the most of your alcohol-free journey!

Adam Matthew Lansky, a 41-year-old man from Salem, has been indicted in federal court following allegations of vandalism linked to a Tesla dealership in Salem, Oregon. The indictment includes multiple charges, specifically two counts of attempting arson of property used in interstate commerce and one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered destructive device, namely a Molotov cocktail.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Lansky faced earlier charges for illegally possessing these explosive devices. He is associated with two distinct incidents at the Tesla dealership. The first incident on January 20 involved the use of a Molotov cocktail to ignite a car and resulted in a broken window. A second incident occurred on February 19 when several windows at the dealership were reportedly damaged by gunfire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during either event.

The Salem Police Department is treating the fire at the Tesla dealership as arson. This case occurs amid increasing vandalism incidents involving Tesla properties across the U.S. and abroad, which have been characterized by Attorney General Pamela Bondi as “domestic terrorism.” Such crimes have notably surged in relation to tensions surrounding the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s initiatives.

For further details regarding these incidents, you can refer to the following links:

• Indictment Details
• Tesla Dealership Vandalism
• Shooting Incident
• Attorney General’s Statement

The recent spate of severe hailstorms has left several states facing significant damage, with some regions bearing the brunt of the storms more than others. These hailstorms are part of a broader pattern of extreme weather that has become increasingly common due to climate change.

Heathrow Airport recently experienced significant disruptions due to a fire, leading to delays and confusion for travelers. As the airport begins to resume normal operations, affected passengers are advised to understand their rights regarding compensation.

In another concerning development linked to climate change, researchers have observed that spring seasons are starting earlier and becoming both warmer and rainier. This shift has implications for agriculture, ecosystem dynamics, and weather patterns across the globe.

Meanwhile, rising sea levels continue to threaten coastal communities, with new reports indicating they are escalating at an unprecedented rate. Affected regions are warned to prepare for potential flooding and other adverse effects as the situation worsens.

Lastly, after decades of being declared ‘eliminated’, there are fears that measles could regain a foothold in the U.S. as vaccine hesitancy increases. Health officials are closely monitoring this trend to avert major outbreaks.

For more information on these topics, check out the following links:

• Severe Hailstorms
• Heathrow Airport Disruption
• Climate Change Impacts on Spring
• Rising Sea Levels
• Measles Resurgence Concerns

Spring is a time for renewal, and what better way to refresh than through a cocktail celebration? Inspired by the tradition of Oktoberfest, which revolves around celebrating a specific type of beer, this approach encourages an event dubbed "Marchfest." Here, we focus on using up any leftover winter spirits to make room for the lighter drinks of spring and summer.

As winter cocktails are often rich with flavors—think whiskey, brandy, and roasted red wines—Marchfest brings a fresh twist, perfect for mixing seasonal drinks. By incorporating winter’s bounty, particularly citrus fruits like Meyer lemons, a range of delightful cocktails can be crafted.

Cocktail Recipes for Marchfest

New York Sour

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces Unsinkable Bourbon from Sausalito Liquor Co.
• 1 ounce fresh Meyer lemon juice
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• ½ ounce aquafaba (a chickpea water substitute)
• 1 ounce leftover red wine

Directions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine bourbon, Meyer lemon juice, simple syrup, and aquafaba. Shake until cold and foamy.
2. Strain over fresh ice in a glass and carefully layer with red wine on top for a visually appealing effect.

Sonoma Sazerac

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces Barrel 151 reserve brandy from Griffo Distillery
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• 2 dashes Bitter Girl Garden Party bitters
• ¼ ounce Absinthe Blanche from Barber Lee Spirits

Directions:

1. Mix brandy, simple syrup, and bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled.
2. Coat a chilled glass with absinthe, discard the excess, and strain the mixture into the glass, garnishing with an orange twist.

An Almost Naked and Almost Famous

Ingredients:

• ¾ ounce Mezquila from Santo Spirits
• ¾ ounce California Amaro from Geijer Spirits
• ¾ ounce Flora Green from Accompani
• ¾ ounce Meyer lemon juice
• ½ ounce aquafaba

Directions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake until cold and foamy, then pour into a chilled coupe glass, topping with a generous mound of foam.

Perfectly Clear Spring Manhattan

Ingredients:

• 2½ ounces White Whiskey from Griffo Distillery
• ½ ounce Alessio Vermouth Bianco
• ½ ounce Vya Whisper Dry Vermouth
• 1 all-natural Bada Bing cherry

Directions:

1. Stir the whiskey and vermouths in a mixing beaker with ice until very cold.
2. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a stemmed cherry for an unconventional twist.

Marchfest offers an excellent way to enjoy cocktails and transition into spring while celebrating the final sips of winter. Each drink is a unique invitation to explore flavors and creativity that represent both seasons.

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your cocktail repertoire, and Irish whiskey offers a unique twist to warm-weather drinks with its lighter flavors. Here are some delightful recipes featuring Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey that are sure to invigorate your spring gatherings.

Proper Sour

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
• 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz simple syrup
• Ice
• Garnish: lemon wedge and cherry

Method:

1. In a shaker, combine whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
3. Garnish with a lemon wedge and cherry.

Proper Green Tea Shots

Ingredients:

• 3 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
• 3 oz Peach Schnapps
• 3 oz Sour Mix
• Splash of Lemon Lime soda

Method:

1. Pour all ingredients into a Boston shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake and strain into four shot glasses.

Apple Mule

Ingredients:

• 1.5 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple
• 3-4 oz Ginger Beer
• Lime wedge for garnish

Method:

1. Over ice, mix Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple with ginger beer.
2. Garnish with a lime wedge for a refreshing twist.

Proper Irish Coffee

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
• 4 oz hot coffee
• 0.75 oz simple syrup
• 2-3 oz heavy cream

Method:

1. Shake or whip the heavy cream until slightly thickened.
2. In a mug, combine whiskey, hot coffee, and simple syrup. Stir well.
3. Layer the thickened cream on top and optionally grate nutmeg over it.

Proper Irish Apple & Soda

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple
• 3-4 oz soda
• Apple slices for garnish

Method:

1. Pour Proper No. Twelve Irish Apple into a glass.
2. Top with soda and garnish with apple slices.

These recipes highlight the versatility of Irish whiskey and are sure to bring a refreshing taste to your springtime celebrations. Enjoy mixing and sipping these delightful cocktails!

Attorney General Bondi has announced charges against three individuals involved in a series of firebombings targeting Tesla dealerships and charging stations. These attacks are reportedly fueled by animosity toward Elon Musk and his relationships within the federal government. President Trump has labeled these violent actions as acts of domestic terrorism.

The Justice Department has indicated that the charges against the three suspects are serious, with the possibility of up to 20 years in prison for each if convicted. In a stern statement, Bondi warned, “the days of committing crimes without consequence have ended.” She emphasized that participating in these acts of domestic terrorism against Tesla properties would lead to incarceration.

The alleged attackers attempted to use Molotov cocktails to destroy vehicles at Tesla locations in Oregon, Colorado, and South Carolina. One suspect, identified as Matthew Lansky from Oregon, was apprehended after reportedly throwing eight Molotov cocktails at a Tesla dealership. Another suspect from Colorado is accused of attempting to ignite vehicles while possessing materials for making more incendiary devices. A third defendant, Daniel Clarke-Pounder from South Carolina, is suspected of writing messages against Trump and setting Tesla charging stations ablaze.

Clarke-Pounder allegedly spray-painted phrases like “F–k Trump” and “Long Live Ukraine” around charging stations before throwing multiple Molotov cocktails. He was tracked down by agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms shortly after the incident. Lansky was captured on surveillance footage throwing incendiary devices and reportedly fired rounds at the dealership as well.

Tesla sales have recently dwindled, with shares plummeting nearly 40% year-to-date. Amid these challenges, Musk has received support from figures in the Trump administration, including Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who encouraged the public to invest in Tesla.

During a recent event, Trump himself publicly showed support for Musk by purchasing three Tesla vehicles. He stated that attacks on Tesla dealerships should be treated with the severity of domestic terrorism and assured that those responsible would face significant repercussions.

Musk reacted to the coordinated attacks on X, questioning the level of violent opposition directed at Tesla, and noted the company’s response to enhance security measures, including activating Sentry Mode on all vehicles at their stores.

Not sure where to grab a bite in the Taunton area? With many options, choosing where to eat can be a challenge. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of meal deals, special events, and enticing offerings from local eateries and markets to consider for your next outing or a quick stop for a treat.

March Cocktails at Mediterranean Bar & Grill

Mediterranean Bar & Grill, located at 983 County St., is currently featuring a March cocktails menu that includes:

• Smokey tropical margarita
• Lime in the coconut cocktail made with Parrot Bay key lime, Malibu, and seltzer, garnished with a coconut flake rim
• Kettle cucumber melon martini
• Lychee pear martini
• Wild berry sangria
• Thin Mint martini featuring vodka and Tippy Cow shamrock rum cream in a chocolate-swirled glass.

Drink of the Month at Riverhouse

At Riverhouse (260 W. Water St.), the drink of the month is the "Luck of the Irish," combining crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and white chocolate liqueur.

Weekly Specials at Grove Street Tavern

Grove Street Tavern (53 Grove St.) offers a variety of weekly specials including:

• French onion soup and beef minestrone
• Salt and vinegar chicken wings
• Garlic Buffalo parmesan chicken tenders
• Fried calamari
• Steak tips and grilled chicken
• A tuna melt
• A turkey bacon ranch wrap
• A Cape Cod Reuben
• Baked haddock Rockefeller with a Ritz topping and two sides.
• For dessert, grapenut pudding is available.

New Flavors at Tom & Jimmy’s Ice Cream

Tom & Jimmy’s, situated at 337 Winthrop St., has introduced new ice cream flavors, Twix and Milky Way, just in time for sweet cravings. Additionally, they are planning to open their fourth location in Raynham.

Special Burrito Bowl Deal

At The Burrito Bowl To-Go (342 Winthrop St.), you can enjoy burrito bowls for $10.99 every Wednesday.

If you have a special deal, menu item, or food-related event you’d like to share with local food enthusiasts, feel free to reach out via email.

For more culinary updates in Taunton, be sure to keep exploring local offerings and specials!

Kibble and Cocktails is an upcoming fundraiser hosted by NBC 5, Telemundo 39, and DFW Rescue Me, scheduled for Sunday, April 13, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Legacy Food Hall in Plano. This event promises an enjoyable atmosphere at the beautiful Lexus Box Garden, featuring a silent auction, live music, and delicious food. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet various adorable dogs looking for their forever homes.

Proceeds from the event will benefit DFW Rescue Me, a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehoming lost, abused, and abandoned dogs in the Dallas area. They rely heavily on community support to fulfill their mission.

Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, April 13
• Time: 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Location: Legacy Food Hall, 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano

For more information, visit DFW Rescue Me.

As the spring equinox approaches, it’s a perfect time to shift from winter drinks to refreshing spring cocktails. Inspired by the concept of Oktoberfest, where beer is celebrated at the end of the season, why not create a Marchfest? This idea encourages us to use up our winter stock of spirits and citrus before fully embracing the lighter flavors of spring.

Winter drinks typically include richer flavors such as red wine, whiskey, and brandy, whereas spring brings cocktails like gin and tonics. As we transition between these two seasons, here’s an opportunity to blend both; a perfect time for a "spring cleaning" for cocktails.

Below are four reimagined winter cocktails well-suited for this Marchfest celebration, utilizing local ingredients that can help offset potential tariffs on imports.

New York Sour

Ingredients

• 2 ounces Sausalito Liquor Co.’s Unsinkable Bourbon
• 1 ounce fresh-squeezed Meyer lemon juice
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• ½ ounce aquafaba
• 1 ounce leftover red wine

Directions

1. Combine bourbon, Meyer lemon juice, simple syrup, and aquafaba in a cocktail shaker. Shake until cold and foamy.
2. Strain over ice in a serving glass and gently layer leftover red wine on top for a beautiful presentation.

The Meyer lemon adds a subtle orange flavor, reducing the need for additional sweeteners in the drink.

Sonoma Sazerac

Ingredients

• 2 ounces Griffo Distillery’s Barrel 151 reserve brandy
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• 2 dashes Bitter Girl Bitters’ Garden Party bitters
• ¼ ounce Barber Lee Spirits’ Absinthe Blanche

Directions

1. In a shaker, combine the brandy, simple syrup, and bitters with ice. Shake vigorously until cold.
2. Coat a chilled glass with absinthe, then discard the excess. Strain the cocktail mixture into the glass and garnish with an orange twist.

This classic cocktail returns to its cognac roots with California’s exceptional brandies.

An Almost Naked and Almost Famous

Ingredients

• ¾ ounce Santo Spirits’ Mezquila
• ¾ ounce Geijer Spirits’ California Amaro
• ¾ ounce Accompani’s Flora Green
• ¾ ounce Meyer lemon juice
• ½ ounce aquafaba

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice and shake until chilled and foamy.
2. Strain into a chilled coupe glass, piling the foam high on top.

Flora Green offers a lighter alternative to traditional liqueurs, making this a fresh addition to your cocktail repertoire.

Perfectly Clear Spring Manhattan

Ingredients

• 2 ½ ounces Griffo Distillery’s White Whiskey
• ½ ounce Alessio Vermouth Bianco
• ½ ounce Vya Whisper Dry Vermouth
• 1 Bada Bing stemmed all-natural cherry

Directions

1. In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey and vermouths with ice. Stir until thoroughly chilled.
2. Strain into a chilled martini glass, garnishing with the cherry.

This light yet flavorful twist on the Manhattan presents a unique contrast with the dark cherry garnish.

These cocktails celebrate the season’s shift, encouraging creativity and sustainability while enjoying local spirits. Cheers to a refreshing spring!