A strange fusion

Libraries are struggling, which is why they have undertaken so many new programs lately. One such program is seed libraries. Get this: it promotes heirloom varieties! So, I think we might all benefit from it. I am not a gardener, and thus have not tried these programs. In fact, I do not know of any libraries in my area that are doing this. Then again, I live in built-up suburbs around a big city. It is very important to have genetic variation in all species and to preserve some of those varieties that make a dish a little more authentic. As far as I gather right now, one borrows the seeds from the library and gives seeds back of the plant that they have grown. Don't you want to go back to our roots and produce a genuine product rather than buying it at the store?

Grapefruit's Bite

The other day on Howcast got a tip about making fresh juice.  Apparently, to get more juice out of your citrus fruit, put it in a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes after removing it from the fridge.I couldn't believe it! I went the bartending school! Why didn't they teach us this?

But, that resulted in this great twist on a Gin & Ginger. 

1. In a rocks glass add 1 oz. gin and 1 oz. fresh squeezed grapefruit juice
2. Fill rest of glass with ginger ale
3. Drop in a squeeze of ginger puree and serve.

Spiced Gin Pucker

I had just been introduced to Gin and Ginger and was serving it up at a party, when my mom wanted a gin and bitter lemon. My boyfriend at the time took me to a international food store we love, I saw the bitter lemon and said I had to get it for my mom. He also got me some great ginger and lemon gummies. Following my taste buds and what we had in stock, I simply combined these ideas.

In a rocks glass combine:

1 oz. Gin
Equal parts Ginger Ale and Bitter Lemon