Summer is almost here and that means sips in the sun, no-fuss canapés and easy entertaining! Our nifty hacks and tricks will help you get a head start on your summer party plans.
Cool as ice
Whether it’s a cosmo or a whisky sour, add some sparkle to your favourite tipple with these icey tips.
Floral finesse
Add edible flowers and petals to an ice cube tray or moulds, top up with water and freeze. Add these decorative ice cubes to individual cocktails or a large pitcher to keep the crowd sippin’.
Flowers to try:
- Roses (dried or fresh petals)
- Dragon snaps
- Basil blossoms
- Alyssum flowers
- Calendulas
- Carnations & Dianthuses
- Elder flowers
- Hibiscus flowers
Fruit frenzy
Freeze cut fruit like lemon, limes, oranges and berries or switch it up and use fruit purée. Add to ice cube trays or moulds to add flavour and colour to mocktails and cocktails.
Hydration station
Use distilled water for clear ice or boil water at least twice before using. Substitute water for fruit juices or cordials – that way, your cocktails won’t get watered down.
Bigger is better
Make an edible ice bucket for your bubbly or wine bottles, perfect for that extra bit of pizzazz at your next gathering. Place water, berries (or sliced fruit of choice) with mint or flowers in a bucket of ice bucket. Then, place a smaller container in the centre with a brick or something heavy to weigh it down (this creates a cavity for your bottles). Freeze overnight and unmould when the party starts.
Smoked ice, anyone?
Now this is something you can really wow your guests with this season!
- Soak aromatic wood chips (smoking chips are available at selected retail and outdoor stores) in water, drain and add to your weber after the coals have died down.
- Fill a deep baking tray or foil container with as much water as you need to fill your ice-cube trays.
- Place in the weber with the lid on. Allow to smoke for 2-3 hours (water evaporates at 100°C so keep an eye on the water level)
- Pour into ice trays or moulds and freeze.
- Serve with whisky or robust and bold cocktails.
Words by: Gail Damon
Photographs: Getty Images, Fresh Living Magazine, Supplied.
