Election Night Elixir

Have a toast while they’re tallying the votes.

A spiced cocktail perfect for making through the emotional roller coaster that is election night, this whiskey chai cocktail combines the rich depth of whiskey with the comforting, aromatic flavors of chai tea.

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Ingredients

• 2 oz whiskey (We recommend Madam Whiskey from Republic Restoratives, though an alternative bourbon, rye, or spiced whiskey would work well)
• 1 oz chai tea concentrate (or strong brewed chai tea, cooled)
• ½ oz maple syrup (or honey, if you prefer a different sweetener)
• ¼ oz fresh lemon juice (optional for a touch of brightness)
• 1 dash ground cinnamon
• 1 dash ground ginger (or fresh grated ginger, for extra spice)
• 1 dash of hope
• Ice cubes
• Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
• Star anise (optional, for garnish)
• Dried orange slice or twist of orange peel (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Brew the Chai Tea: If you’re using loose-leaf chai or chai tea bags, brew a strong cup of chai tea. Use double the amount of tea leaves or bags you’d typically use for a single serving to ensure the chai flavor stands out. Let it steep for 5–6 minutes, then let it cool to room temperature or chill in the fridge.
2. Mix the Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine the whiskey, chai tea concentrate (or cooled strong brewed chai), maple syrup, lemon juice (if using), cinnamon, and ginger.
3. Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until well-chilled and frothy.
4. Strain: Strain the cocktail into an old fashioned glass or a coupe glass filled with fresh ice.
5. Garnish: Garnish with a cinnamon stick, a star anise pod, a dried orange slice or twist of orange peel (optional but adds a lovely citrus aroma)
6. Serve: Sip and enjoy the warming, spiced flavors of whiskey and chai!

Tips:

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, increase the amount of maple syrup or honey. For a less sweet version, reduce the amount of syrup or omit the lemon juice.
• Chai tea concentrate: If you can’t find chai concentrate, you can easily make your own by brewing a very strong cup of chai tea and reducing it on the stove until it thickens slightly. This can be kept in the fridge for future cocktails.
• Whiskey choice: Bourbon adds warmth and a touch of sweetness, while rye gives the drink a bit of spice. Spiced whiskeys can emphasize the chai spices nicely as well

Credit

Recipe by People People

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