The Cosmopolitan, or 'Cosmo', is a wonderfully refreshing and crisp cocktail that has recently regained popularity thanks to its prevalence on HBO's Sex and the City. Consequently, and also because of its pale pink hue, it has the unfortunate reputation of being an effeminate drink. Not so! A well made Cosmo is an elegant, delicious and quite uplifting beverage.
In terms of Cocktail history, the Cosmo is a relatively young drink. Combining vodka and one of many varieties of orange flavor liquor with cranberry and lime juices, it has been on cocktail menus since the mid-80's. Though the origins of the cocktail are somewhat unclear, most sources credit South Beach, Florida bartender Cheryl Cook with the original creation. This recipe follows her initial concoction and replaces the Triple Sec and Roses Lime Juice cordial in her recipe with Cointreau and freshly squeezed lime juice for a fresher and more luxurious experience.
Fill a clean glass or steel shaker with cracked ice, 2 ½ measures of Absolut Citron, 1 measure of Cointreau or Grand Marnier, 1 measure of freshly squeezed lime juice, 2 measures of Cranberry juice (freshly squeezed if available) and a dash of simple syrup. Shake vigorously until a film of frost forms on the shaker. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Have a quick taste to make sure the proportions are correct (some limes and juices are sweeter than others).
To garnish, take a generous slice of orange peel and run it around the rim of the glass. Now twist the peel over the glass to release the essential oils. If you are feeling brave, hold a lit cigarette lighter by the side of the glass and let the oils squirt over the flame. The heat will caramelize the oils into a wonderful burnt orange flavor that will float on the surface of the drink (great for impressing a date). Alternatively (to avoid the fire hazard), simply twist the rind and drop it into the glass. Enjoy!
Check out this link to test your cocktail mixing skills!
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