Pineapple the Symbol of Hospitality - January 5, 2013

One of my Christmas gifts to John this year was a water dispenser with spout that looks nice enough to sit on the counter.  I envisioned us using it at the yurt to get water because we have to bring in drinking water as what comes from the spout there is filled with sodium from the well.  I thought it would be nice to stop using the 5 gallon plastic version we have always taken in the past.  Well, as you can see, John had other ideas for his Christmas present – infused vodka. 

First, John loves pineapple eating it each morning even though we try our best to purchase local foods most of the time.  Second, we spent the holidays at my mother-in-law’s house and she had it decorated so beautifully using natural items like magnolia leaves and PINEAPPLES! These very ripe pineapples were perfect to peel, core and cut into chunks.  We used two along with 1.75 liters of Tito's Vodka.  We had the first sipping after a week and it was delicious right out of the spout –just sweet enough to get you in trouble.  I actually added infused vodka to the same amount of Sprite Zero and it was even better.  Then we decided to get inventive with smoothies using the vodka soaked pineapple and raspberries and blackberries we put up in the freezer back in the Summer.

Pineapple Berry Smoothies

4 large chunks vodka infused pineapple

½-1 c. plain yogurt

1 banana (frozen if you have time and remember)

1-4 packets Splenda or honey to taste

½ c. frozen berries

Toss everything in a blender and blend, pushing down as necessary to get it started.

We plan to try other infusions in the coming months including tangerine and cranberries.  But, here are a few other ideas for the pineapple vodka.

New England Surfer

Cranberry Juice

Pineapple Vodka

Ice

Splash of Sprite

Lime

Mix cranberry juice and pineapple vodka to taste.  Pour over ice and add a splash of Sprite.  Garnish with lime.

L&C

1 c. Pineapple Chunks

Pineapple Vodka

Coconut Rum

Ice

Maraschino Cherry

Blend pineapple in blender.  Add vodka, rum and ice to fill blender to 5 cups.  Blend again and top with cherry.

 Enjoy and Happy New Year!