HOT SHOTS

Want a blast of healthy heat? Just one Hot Shot will do the trick. This zesty little wonder’s anti-inflammatory ingredients pack a double punch as it warms and relaxes the body. Besides being a unique pain relieving libation, it might also encourage digestive juices, be helpful for mild congestion, tackle that irritating winter-time “tickle”, or quell a bit of a cough. How adventurous are your tastebuds?

Yield: 1 drink

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: N/A

Skill level: Easy

INGREDIENTS

2 oz. VODKA
1/4 teaspoon TURMERIC
1/8 teaspoon BLACK PEPPER
1 frozen LEMON QUARTER
Raw HONEY, optional

DIRECTIONS FOR MARTINI

Add all ingredients to a lowball glass (such as one used for bourbon) or a martini shaker.
Mix or shake well then allow ingredients to steep with frozen lemon wedge for a 1-2 minutes.
As the lemon wedge thaws slightly, press it to release some of the juice.
Mix or shake again. If preparing directly in a glass, drizzle a little honey to the inner sides of the glass before sipping, if desired. If you opted to use a shaker, before straining and serving, consider rimming the designated drinking glass with honey.

NOTES/VARIATIONS

You are welcome to adjust the ratios to your liking. A good rule of thumb with the turmeric : pepper ratio is for every measurement of turmeric, use half of that measurement of pepper.
Not all of the granules of spice will dissolve. Some don’t mind the little bit of residue (I don’t). If you do, simply strain before serving.
If you don’t have frozen lemon quarters, fresh lemon is fine. The idea of the frozen lemon is to add nutritional value and flavor without the need for ice - which could water the drink down. Another approach is to store your vodka in the freezer until ready to use.
This recipe can be made in advance (with or without the lemon and honey, adding them at the time of serving if preferred) to allow for a stronger brew. Trust me, it has plenty of personality without the extra hang time but if you have the inclination, a batch can certainly be made beforehand.
There are fairly well known health benefits to turmeric and lemon but did you know that black pepper and even vodka (yes, vodka) have their own advantages? If you’re still hungry for more information, try exploring these links:
It’s important to include black pepper whenever you enjoy turmeric as there is strong evidence that it “unlocks” the benefits of that interesting root.
If you like the basic concept but it’s just too strong for you as is, try adding quality club soda, tonic water, or real sugar clear soda (pop), and serve over ice. A splash of pineapple juice (great for a boost of alimentative bromelain) adds a nice twist and a fresh carrot stick makes a tasty garnish!
Not one to drink socially but still want the perks of this concoction?
- Take one Tablespoon to help quiet a cough or sooth a tickle. If this is the chosen application, make sure you include honey. Warming the serving first will give added comfort.
- Gargle with 1/2 - 1 ounce to address a tender throat. If it’s too spicy for delicate tissues, dilute it with a little warm water (not too much, or it won’t be effective).
As with the High Colonic, this beverage is, by nature, rather self limiting. A little goes a long way. Additionally, too much can cause short and long term problems; more does not equal better.
If you want to better understand why I would post an alcoholic drink, please see this article.
As articulated in the What’s for Dinner article, always aim for the highest quality ingredients.

CREDITS/REFERENCES

Thumbnail photo credit: www.wallpaperup.com

I created this recipe. Cheers!

LISTERCLEAN MOUTHWASH

GREEK DRESSING & MARINADE