After just admitting to homebody status, a press release came across my desk that easily coaxed me out of my winter hibernation. Claire Smith, Head of Spirit Creation and Mixology for Belvedere Vodka, was in town last night serving up custom cocktails at Blowfish and I was invited to check it out. (No tough decision here.)
On the menu were six delicious courses of Blowfish specialties, each paired with a martini featuring a unique blend of fresh ingredients, sake and Belvedere's finest. It was a sensory overload and definitely worth leaving the comforts of home.
If I had to pick a favourite dish of the night (they were all delicious), my vote would be for the Lobster Wrap (shown right) in course four. It was a rich puffy pastry stuffed with a few of my favourite things – fresh lobster, black truffle and proscuitto. Amazing.
As for the cocktails, without a doubt the standout favourite of the night was Claire's Nam Sum Kun Martini. And I'm happy to say I can do you one better than a description because I scored the recipe so you can try it yourself. (I love it for the subtle heat from the red chili.)
Nam Sum Kun Martini
Ingredients
50 ml Belvedere Vodka
1 slice red chili
1 slice lemongrass
3 leaves mint
120 ml Mandarin or Clementine juice
5 ml lemon juice
Dash of simple syrup
Directions
Muddle botanicals with sugar and shake with cubed ice. Strain over cubed ice into a rocks glass and garnish with a stick of lemongrass. Enjoy.
On a buzz worthy note, I've heard that Belvedere will be launching a new and innovative product at Toronto Fashion Week this month, so stay tuned. I plan to be the first in line for a taste of this luxe new release.
Feeling hungry now? Try making our Thai at Home or Comfort Food menus.