Frozen Negroni

N is for the Negroni.  If you've never tried Campari or a bitter alcohol before, or don't like very strong cocktails, this is a good introduction to an assertive flavor.  It's frozen version of the classic Negroni and a great summer drink.  This was my first introduction to that spirit a year ago and I loved it!  Campari reminds me of grapefruit with its bitter, citrusy notes and since I quite like both bitters and grapefruit, this was a winner for me.  If you want it less tipsy, you can always add more juice and ice for more servings, but this is a nicely mild cocktail as written.

 

Now, a Negroni is apparently supposed to be made with a dry gin.  Well, I don't like dry gin and I found a new Hendrick's gin to try out with lovely citrus, herbal notes.  (Oasium, yellow label.)  I think it was brilliant in this cocktail.  If you would like a slightly sweeter cocktail, try using blood orange juice, which also imparts a beautiful color.  If you like unsweetened grapefruit juice, this drink should appeal. 

 

 
Frozen Negroni

serves 2

1 oz gin
1 oz Campari
1 oz sweet vermouth 
3 oz freshly squeezed orange juice (about 1½ small oranges, Valencia or blood oranges are great)
1½ to 2 cups ice, preferably crushed 

Put the cocktail glasses into the freezer to chill.

In a blender, combine the spirits and orange juice. Add ice and pulse on low to break up the ice, then increase gradually to the highest setting.  Add more ice to the desired consistency.  Pour into the chilled glasses and garnish with a sprig of mint, thyme, or a twist of orange peel. 

(You can freeze any leftovers for later, partially thaw, and re-blend to have a ready made cocktail mix on hand!)

Here are some more letter N recipes.

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•  Karen’s Kitchen Stories: Singapore Noodles
•  A Messy Kitchen: Frozen Negroni
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