Always nice to have a back-pocket mocktail for those who are too young to have a loaded one (or those who choose not to drink). I love the frisky flavor that is also mellow with mulling spices at the same time. It doesn't take long to infuse the pomegranate juice with the lovely spices of clove, cinnamon, and anise--it makes such a difference and keeps this mocktail tasting special. Don't forget the splash bubbles over the top!
Notes:
SPICED POMEGRANATE FIZZ MOCKTAIL
Ingredients: 8 ounces of pomegranate juice, 4 ounces orange juice, 2 ounces soda water, two star anise, five whole cloves, one small sliced orange (such as mandarin), two cinnamon sticks, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 tbsp. ground cinnamon, and ice.
Makes two 6-ounce mocktails.
1. Make the spiced pomegranate juice by adding it to a small saucepan along with the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and 2-3 orange slices. Bring to a simmer, then turn it down to low to infuse for 10 minutes. Strain and cool.
2. Prepare two glasses by rolling an orange slice around the rim. Combine the ground cinnamon and sugar, then dip the glasses into it. Fill the glasses with ice.
3. Add ice to a cocktail shaker along with the pomegranate and orange juice. Shake well. Split between the two glasses. Top with an ounce of fizzy soda water in each glass. Garnish with a slice of lime and star anise.
TIP
To 'spike' the drinks, shake in 1-1.5 ounces of vodka.