A throw back to our very first recipe we posted on here over a year ago......the Açai Berry Bramble.
If you're looking for a cocktail that's as nutritious as it is delicious, we recommend using a spot of DIY and whipping this one up. It's easy, and once you've made your Açai syrup you can use it in plenty of other recipes.
Of course, you could cheat. There are a few Açai based cocktails now on the market, along with (and made with) Fair Açai Liqueur. Having tried it, it really is quite delicious- but do bear in mind that as it's a liqueur, it likely contains a minimum of 100g sugar per litre, as well as using Acai "essence"- i.e., no nutritional benefit at all.
So it really depends on what you are looking for- a quick ‘cocktail fix’ or something that’s a bit….well…better for you. We won't blame you either way!
If you choose to 'make your own' we recommend trying this with Three Spirits ‘Livener’ if you're being good. The berry flavours and slight heat match the Açai just perfectly. Or if you're being a tad naughty, a decent gin works well. We loved the flavour of Norfolk Gin in this, with the botanicals shining through far more than they do in a regular London dry.
And if you haven't invested in a bag of Açai powder yet, do it now- as we have one final recipe next week that is a MUST TRY!
Over to our original recipe:
The açai berry (technically not a berry, but rather a drupe) are nutrient-dense little balls of earthy goodness. Gram by gram they have more antioxidants than blueberries and cranberries. There are also tonnes of research on these little blue berries, studying the effect they have on cholesterol, brain activity, and even cancer- so watch this space.
Our smoothie bowl
We've used this açai powder previously in Kombucha, in smoothie bowls (still our favourite breakfast) and plenty of other drinks.
Give the recipe a whirl and see what you think.
P.S. If you are short on time- you can simply add all of the ingredients into a cocktail shaker. The only issue is that the Açai leaves a powdery residue when it's not heated. We don’t mind it- but if you have the time, it’s best to make the syrup before-hand. It only takes 10 mins and will keep in the fridge for 4-5 days.
Ingredients
For the syrup:
Organic Agave (available from any good supermarket)- 100g
Fresh Blueberries- 250g
Organic Açai Powder- 20g
For the cocktail:
Three Spirits Livener or a good gin (we used Norfolk Gin)- 50ml
Fresh lemon Juice- 20ml
Soda- 100ml
Your Açai Syrup- 25ml
Method
Combine the agave, fresh blueberries, and acai powder in a saucepan over medium heat and begin to boil. Reduce the heat and let it cook for around 8 minutes, stirring often until all of the blueberries have popped. If you do need to, you can add a splash of water to loosen the mixture.
Strain the liquid into a sterilised bottle or jar, let it cool and keep it sealed in the refrigerator.
Blueberries; packed full of antioxidants
To make the cocktail. Pour 50ml of Gin (or your 0% alternative) over cubed ice in a tall glass. Add a squeeze of lemon juice (about 20ml) and soda. Pour 15ml of the syrup over the top to give a pretty layering effect as it mixes with the liquid- and garnish with a slice of lemon, a couple of fresh berries or a sprig of mint.
If using the Three Spirits, a cinnamon stick also goes well.
You can also play around with the amount of syrup. For a thicker version, simply add more and stir.
Yes, you are being healthy (kinda’)!
Don't Forget!
If you like this recipe but fancy taking the trouble out of making cocktails at home, you can simply order cocktails from Mindful Mixology to be delivered straight to your door!
If you like this recipe you might just fancy our Raspberry and Elderflower Collins. At just £10 for 2 large servings, it's a super treat for the weekend. You can also buy it in our 'gift box of three.'
Mindful Mixology delivers cocktails direct to your door all over the UK, posted out the same day when you order by 10am. So, if you can’t be with a loved one on a special occasion, or want a delicious cocktail delivered to the door, we will ensure that your cocktails are delivered safely and securely straight to your front door. Our bottled cocktails delivery service is second to none with our robust designed packaging that keeps your order safe in transit.
Placing your order couldn’t be more straightforward, just place your cocktail order online on our website. Then you can provide any notes, for example, the fact that it's a gift and you would like a hand-written m in there.