CHEERS!
Thanksgiving With A Punch By CHRISTINE JOHNSON Photo by HATTIE FOOTE
I
n 1621, Plymouth colonists shared an autumn harvest feast with Native Americans and created what is widely known as one of the first Thanksgiving holidays in the colonies. It is a tradition that lives on and has a way of creating an annual celebration that every family cherishes. The month of November brings cool air and the changing color of leaves. But I think what people look forward to most is gathering with family and friends to eat the very best meal of the year. Families reunite to express gratitude and create closeness. This holiday is the busiest travel day of the year across the country because it is all about being with the people you love. Generations at the same table laughing, smiling, and sharing stories while at the same time saying, “Pass the sweet potatoes.” It’s also a day when some cannot be together with family, missing those who live far away or who are serving their country, keeping us safe. I can say from experience that Coronado lends incredible support
to those apart from their family. Neighbors help neighbors by inviting them into their homes for a holiday meal and a warm hug. November 11 is also a day of remembrance and gratitude this month. Veterans Day was made a federal holiday in 1938 to honor United States military veterans. Please take a moment to thank a veteran on this day and every day for their service and sacrifice. They have spent many Thanksgivings away from home to provide us with the freedom we enjoy. While the turkey is roasting and (if you are like me) opening your fifth stick of butter to add to everything you are making… why not also add a great cocktail or mocktail to your Thanksgiving menu? This drink is a punch that adults and kids will love while bringing a beautiful addition to your holiday table. Enjoy this Thanksgiving drink and cherish this time with family and friends. ◆
Thanksgiving Cider Punch
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INGREDIENTS: • 8 cups apple cider • 1 cup vodka • 1/2 cup apple butter • 4 dashes orange bitters • 4 cinnamon sticks • 1 bottle champagne (750ml) • 2 bottles ginger beer • 2 apples, sliced • Punch bowl
MIXOLOGY: Combine the cider, vodka, apple butter, and bitters in a large pitcher. Stir until well mixed. Add the cinnamon sticks and star anise. Chill until time to serve.
CINNAMON SUGAR RIM: • 2 tablespoons sugar • 3 tablespoons brown sugar • 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon • Pomegranate or orange juice for the rim • Star anise for garnish
Before time to serve, add ice to a punch bowl. Pour the mixture from the pitcher into the punch bowl, then add the champagne and ginger beer. Add ice to cocktail glasses and pour the punch into glasses. Serve with apple slices.
| CORONADO MAGAZINE
Prepare your cocktail glasses with a sugar rim. On a small plate, mix the sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Dip the rim of the glasses into your choice of juice, then dip the glass into the sugar mix.
