LCBO Food & Drink Summer 2021

HIP TO SIP

The Jungle Bird (recipe on page 172) is the simplest tropical cocktail of them all and is the LCBO’s July Cocktail of the Month. Visit lcbo.com/fdcocktail to watch this drink being made.

Sake for summer

Sake and sushi are a familiar duo, but this fermented-rice drink is a versatile match for all kinds of cuisines beyond traditional Japanese fare. Try it as a refreshing pairing for summer-ready eats. Tozai Snow Maiden Junmai Nigori Saké A creamy, fruity sake ( LCBO 485987, 720 mL, $23.55) is great served as an after-dinner sipper with desserts such as coconut macaroons. Hakutsuru Junmai Sake With its toasty flavours, this easy-drinking and great-value sake ( LCBO 12849, 720 mL, $10.60) is a nicely balanced match for grilled meats. Izumi Yuzu + Lime Sake Collins Enhance a local Ontario sake’s ( LCBO 519348, $19.95) citrusy notes by pairing it with guacamole finished with extra lime juice. — Jessica Huras

Easy, breezy tropical drinks If you think retro-inspired tropical drinks are too complicated to make at home, think again! These easy cocktail hacks will help you create them with fewer steps and ingredients. Get some fresh pineapple and tiny paper umbrellas, and visit the tropics without leaving home.

+ Mix fruity Alizé Gold Passion Liqueur ( LCBO 338079, $26.10) or Malibu Mango Rum Liqueur ( LCBO 601666, $24.95) with orange or pineapple juice for an instant cocktail. + Lighten up by mixing coconut water with a flavourful rum, such as Bacardi Raspberry

Rum ( LCBO 498386, $29.25) or Lamb’s Spiced Rum ( LCBO 462309, $29.55). + In a blender, whizz together 1 ⁄ oz white rum, 1 oz lime juice, ⁄ oz simple syrup and 1 cup (250 mL) ice for a quickie Daiquiri; add ⁄ cup (60 mL) berries for a fruity twist.

+ Craving a low-cal Colada? Blend almond or oat milk and coconut Greek yogurt with a dash of vanilla extract and a handful of frozen pineapple chunks; splash of rum optional. — Michelle Hunt & Laura Panter

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SUMMER 2021 FOOD & DRINK