We talk about food a lot at GeniusCook. But what you drink is just as important as what you eat, and it can be just as flavorful.
A lot of people get intimidated at the thought of whipping up gourmet beverages. When you have a few key pieces of equipment and the right ingredients creating great drinks at home is simple! Here are a few of our favorite flavorful ideas.
Gourmet Coffee
Coffee makers come in all shapes and sizes from French presses to instant drip coffee pots. Sure, brewing up a cup of black coffee is something millions of people do every day. You can take your regular java up to coffee shop level with a few extras.
Zero-calorie natural options, like Monin syrups, can add a surge of flavor without making your morning cup of Joe less healthy. There’s a huge selection of flavors to choose from so you can try something different every day.
Another thing to pay attention to is your coffee beans. You can immediately improve the quality of your coffee by choosing 100% Arabica beans, which are considered to be superior to cheaper robusta beans. Next, get yourself a coffee grinder. This inexpensive tool will ensure you get the freshest coffee grounds possible.
If you like lattes and cappuccinos you’ll need one more piece of equipment. An electric milk frother will give you that perfect whipped taste. Look for a frother that can froth milk hot or cold to expand your iced coffee options.
Flavored Water
Drinking water is extremely important for your overall health. Unfortunately, most adult Americans don’t drink enough water and are chronically dehydrated. Why? Many people will tell you it’s because they don’t enjoy the bland taste of water.
Well, there’s an easy fix for that! Fruit infused water is a common sight at high-end eateries, but you can lap up the luxurious drink at home for cheap. Just about any fruit will work, so pick your favorite one or even a few to mix together. You can also add herbs like mint as well.
Put the fruit in the bottom of a water container and muddle to release the flavor. Next, add water and taste. Add more fruit if you like or put in some ice to chill the water and you’re done. To really bring out the fruit flavors refrigerate the water overnight.
The fruit adds a touch of sweetness, but since it’s natural complex sugars it’s not bad for your health. You’ll stay hydrated and get nutrients with every sip.
Fruit Slushes
Do you have a blender? That’s about all you need to make delicious fruit slushes at home for a fraction of what you’ll pay at a smoothie store.
Watermelon slushes are a really popular option. All you have to do is chop watermelon into chunks and put them in the freezer for a few hours. Once the watermelon is good and frozen, put it in the blender with a little sugar and lime juice then blend away. Within about a minute you’ll have a healthy slush that helps you get your daily serving of fruits.
You can also add in other fruits like blueberries and strawberries for an even bigger dose of nutrients.
Crafty Cocktails
Do you like to enjoy a craft cocktail every now and then? You don’t have to pay a premium price at a bar. There are a number of crafty cocktails that are easy to make at home.
Sangria is a popular homemade cocktail that’s easy to make. You can go traditional or get really creative with recipes like watermelon sangria with roses. All you have to do is mix together fruit, semi-sweet wine, and sugar to taste, then store it in the fridge for at least a few hours. Add a little champagne if you like before serving and that’s all you have to do to create an impressive cocktail for guests.
If you’ve never had a Paloma you’re in for a treat. The secret is to use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice instead of soda. Mix the juice with a couple ounces of tequila and a half ounce of lime juice and stir. If you want to get really fancy with your Paloma salt the rim of your glass before pouring.
These are just a few of the yummy gourmet beverages you can make at home. If you have an easy recipe share it with us!
