Nootka Rose Hip Martini

Nootka rose hips are known for their vibrant color and high vitamin C content, making them a great addition to alcoholic drinks.

Here's a unique cocktail recipe that incorporates the flavors of Nootka rose hips:

Nootka Rose Hip Martini

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces vodka

• 1/2 ounce Nootka rose hip syrup (see recipe below)

• 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice

• Ice cubes

• Nootka rose hips and lemon twist for garnish

Nootka Rose Hip Syrup:

• Fresh Nootka rose hips, cleaned and trimmed

• Water

• Sugar (1:1 ratio of water to sugar)

Instructions:

Prepare Nootka Rose Hip Syrup:

1. In a pot, combine an equal amount of water and sugar (e.g., 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar).

2. Add the cleaned and trimmed Nootka rose hips to the pot.

3. Simmer the mixture over low heat for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the rose hips to infuse the syrup.

4. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently crush the rose hips and release their flavors.

5. Remove the pot from the heat and strain out the rose hips, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible.

6. Allow the syrup to cool before transferring it to a glass bottle or jar.

Mix the Nootka Rose Hip Martini:

1. In a shaker, combine the vodka, Nootka rose hip syrup, and fresh lemon juice.

2. Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake well to chill the cocktail.

3. Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.

4. Garnish the cocktail with a few Nootka rose hips and a twist of lemon peel.

5. Enjoy Responsibly:

Note: Nootka rose hips can be slightly tart, so adjust the sweetness of the syrup to your taste.

You can find Nootka rose hips growing in the wild or purchase them dried for culinary use.

As always, remember to drink responsibly and adhere to legal drinking age requirements in your area.