Democracy Dies in Darknessclock15 minscourseBeverageStart CookingComment on this storyAdd to your saved recipesBy M. Carrie Allan

This romantic cocktail gets sweetness from strawberry-honey syrup (St. Valentine is the patron saint not only of lovers, but of beekeepers). Two kinds of rum give it a boozy kick, and it gets a depth charge from an unusual acid: balsamic vinegar, a great complement to strawberries. Chocolate bitters bring it all together.

Make ahead: The strawberry-honey syrup needs to be made at least 1 hour before making the cocktail.

Storage: Refrigerate the strawberry-honey syrup for up to 2 weeks.

From Spirits columnist M. Carrie Allan.

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Ingredients

measuring cup

Servings: 1 (makes 1 drink)

For the strawberry-honey syrup

For the drink

Directions

Time Icon Total: 15 mins, plus at least 1 hour cooling time for the syrup

  • Step 1

    Make the strawberry-honey syrup: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the honey, strawberries, water and salt and stir until the honey is fully dissolved. Bring to a boil for about 15 seconds, then reduce the heat to low and cook until the strawberries are softened and translucent, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool completely, at least 1 hour. Strain the solids and discard or save for another use (such as an ice cream topping), then transfer the syrup to a lidded jar or bottle with a cap. You should get about 1 1/2 cups. Use right away or refrigerate until needed.

  • Step 2

    Make the drink: Put a large ice cube in a rocks glass and prop the slice of strawberry on the rim. Add ice to a mixing glass, then add the bitters, white and black rums, the strawberry-honey syrup and balsamic vinegar. Stir to chill and dilute, then strain over the ice cube and serve.

    • Notes

    You should have enough syrup for 12 drinks.

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    Nutritional Facts

    Per serving (not including the strawberries in the syrup, because of the variabilities involved in infusions)

    • Calories

      222

    • Fat

      0 g

    • Saturated Fat

      0 g

    • Carbohydrates

      25 g

    • Sodium

      53 mg

    • Cholesterol

      0 mg

    • Protein

      0 g

    • Fiber

      0 g

    • Sugar

      25 g

    This analysis is an estimate based on available ingredients and this preparation. It should not substitute for a dietitian’s or nutritionist’s advice.

    From Spirits columnist M. Carrie Allan.

    Tested by M. Carrie Allan.

    Published February 8, 2024

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