If I were not a photographer, I would definitely be a mixologist - maybe a mocktail mixologist...or who knows!  I just love pairing fruits, spices and herbs. The colors just make me so happy.

I grew up in a family of teetotalers and mocktails or cocktails were not really a happening thing in our house. I think America spoilt me...the amount of juices and beverages you get here...blows my mind. A few years ago I got sucked into making my own shakes, mocktails, juices - I got a Vitamix and that is the most used appliance in my kitchen - no kidding!  ( this is not a sponsored or paid post - just in case if you were wondering ☺)

It is easier to buy ready juices and mix them but the fun is in doing it from basics, at least that is how I like it. If you are making this for a party - you can definitely make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. I don't guarantee there will be anything left , but you can try. Make sure you add the club soda and vodka only when you serve.

When you are making a mocktail you do not have to be precise about the measurements. But adding alcohol - yes precision is required. December is the official party season, please drink responsibly. Please don't drink and drive - be safe, be happy and there is always uber.

I'm paring cranberry, pomegranate with fresh ginger, star anise and cinnamon

Holiday Fruit Punch  

Ingredients

• 11/2 cup fresh cranberries 
• 1 cup fresh pomegranate kernels 
• 1 cup sugar 
• 3 tbsp grated ginger 
• 2 inch cinnamon stick
• 1 star anise 
• 1 cup water 
• 1 - 2 cups club soda 
• 1 cup vodka - optional

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, add water,  cranberry, sugar, ginger, cinnamon and star anise. Boil for 20 minutes or till the cranberries are cooked and mushy. 
2. Let the mixture cool. 
3. In a blender add pomegranate seeds, and cranberry mix and blend. 
4. Strain the above mixture. It will be about 3 cups.
5. In a jug add the cooled and strained cranberry-pomegranate syrup, club soda and vodka. 
6. Served chilled

Now if you do not add vodka, you can serve it  warm just like spiced apple cider. It tastes good both ways. Warm and chilled. Enjoy!!



If you are looking for some good drinks to serve during the holidays ...here are my recomendations.

• Hibiscus raspberry ice tea 
• Grapefruit thyme cocktail
• Citrus-Cranberry gin tonic
• Cardamom horchata 
• Sangria
• Mulled wine