LCBO Food & Drink Summer 2023

PITCHER THIS

FRUITY

Pom Pomme Pitcher The key to an elegant fruit punch that’s more than the sum of its juices is a variety of fruity flavours, from sweet to tart or bitter. In this case, pomegranate is earthy and bitter, apple (pomme in French) is crisp and juicy, and orange is brightly citrusy. Darling Mimosa (made with Ontario sparkling wine), along with apple cider—alcoholic or not, your choice!— provides effervescence. With optional added vodka, each glass will have the equivalent of one standard serving of alcohol; without it, the lightened-up drink packs half the punch—perfect for warm summer days. 1/2 cup (125 mL) fresh or frozen pomegranate arils (seeds), for optional ice and to garnish 1/2 cup (125 mL) fresh mint leaves, for optional ice and to garnish 1 cup or more (250 to 300 mL, to taste) chilled pomegranate juice 1 can (295 mL) frozen orange juice concentrate, without pulp 2 cans (355 mL each) chilled Darling Mimosa Sparkling Orange (LCBO 20857, 355 mL, $3.85) 2 cans (355 mL each) chilled apple cider 8 oz vodka, optional Orange slices for garnish 1. To make optional decorative ice, the day before serving, use 1/4 cup (60 mL) arils and 1/4 cup (60 mL) mint leaves (reserve the rest for garnish) to fill the compart ments of an ice cube tray approximately half full. Top with water and freeze several hours or overnight, until completely set. 2. To make drink, add pomegranate juice to a pitcher and stir in frozen orange concentrate until it dissolves. Add Darling Mimosa and cider, stirring gently until combined. If desired, add more pomegran ate juice for deeper colour. Add vodka, if using. Garnish pitcher with pomegranate arils, fresh mint and/or orange slices. 3. To serve, add a few ice cubes to each serving glass and fill glasses with mixture, adding fruit and mint to each glass to garnish.

PERFECT PAIRING The robustly fruity profile of this drink complements Middle Eastern flavours, from herba ceous grain or tomato salads to grilled fish and seafood.

Makes 8 servings

122 FOOD & DRINK SUMMER 2023