Long Islands and Small Celebrations

I was at BevMo last week. The trip was to restock on many good things that were dwindling if not completely gone from my residence. I also checked if there were any good wines left at the end of the 5 cent wine sale.

Aside from the alcohol, one item I purchased was a double jigger. This is used to measure ingredients for cocktails. Normally I use a shot glass labeled with half ounce increments for measurements, but I wanted to upgrade to a classic jigger and avoid using a breakable shot glass.

The packaging for the item was labeled as measuring 3/4 oz on one side and 1 3/4 oz on the other. This was surprising to me as I would expect one side to be twice the size of the other from the name jigger and double jigger. I did a test when I got home and discovered the item actually measures 3/4 oz and 1 1/2 oz. The packaging lied to me.

On the topic of using 3/4 oz as a measurement, I have a recipe.


Long Island Iced Tea

0.75 oz Vodka
0.75 oz Gin
0.75 oz Rum
0.75 oz Tequila
0.75 oz Triple sec
Cola

Mix equal parts of the five alcohols and then top with cola.

There are many different variations with different liquors or sour mix instead of cola, but this is the only version I have made at home. Whenever I go to Las Vegas I like to order a Long Island at every different casino they offer me drinks at. While I did not write down what place used which mixer, I enjoyed all of them. I think the Bellagio and Wynn used sour mix, while the Las Vegas Hilton used cola. You should know a Long Island Iced Tea is one of the stronger drinks you can order.

One of the many liquors I bought was Pimm's No. 1. This is great for a summertime drink popular in the UK.


Pimm's Cup

1.5 oz Pimm's No. 1
Ginger ale

Mix the two ingredients and enjoy. The ginger ale can be replaced with lemonade or champagne (becoming a Pimm's Royal Cup). A little history of Pimm's Cup is available from the Unnamed Geniuses. Pimm's No. 1 has a base of gin and is infused with spices and stuff. There are also a few variations listed at the Webtender.

Drifting from drinks to a dessert, my neighbor sent me the following recipe from an email. I tried and enjoyed it.


5 Minute Chocolate Mug Cake

4 Tbsp flour
4 Tbsp sugar
2 Tbsp cocoa
1 egg
3 Tbsp milk
3 Tbsp oil
3 Tbsp chocolate chips
Small splash of vanilla extract

Add the flour, sugar, and cocoa to a large microwave safe mug and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly. Pour in the milk and oil and mix well. Add the chocolate chips and vanilla extract and mix some more. Put the mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed! Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.

This is perfect for any occasion you want to celebrate at the last minute. If you can't think of one immediately, my next post will give you a reason to celebrate.