Every once in a while the stars align and grant Earth’s inhabitants a celestial spectacular that brings folks together.
Last week the population united, however briefly, to enjoy the solar eclipse. The passing of the moon over the sun could be seen from Mexico, cutting a path across the United States, proceeding up towards Niagara Falls, and into Quebec, Canada. It was a pleasure to see workers, neighbors, students, and acquaintances standing outside peering at the sky through goofing-looking protective eyewear.
For me, it was a moment to try a new recipe. Let me explain. I have a pal who resides several states away during the winter months. My family was not home on the day of the eclipse and she called to say let’s watch it together. Sure! Always a thoughtful friend, she also sent me a cocktail recipe.
What does a recipe and an eclipse have in common? It is a way to share an experience with another person near or far. The recipe she sent me is called Love and Murder. It combines Campari, Chartreuse, lime juice and saline solution. An odd sounding combination, but intriguing.
Chartreuse liqueur is scarce these days. The monks in France that produce the herbal liqueur have slowed down production to allow more time for prayer. That seems like a sound plan, after all they are monks. So, I only use my coveted share of Chartreuse on special occasions. After a bit of pondering, I decided I could place the solar eclipse into the special occasion category.
There was something relevant about the recipe she sent me that afternoon. I suddenly remembered I had seen a social media post about the recipe from another friend who also lives several miles away . I was intrigued with the ingredients on that occasion and commented about it at the time.
All the pieces fell into place. The recipe was meant to be made during the eclipse. On that afternoon, across the miles, a reprieve was granted from the worries of the world. Recipes were shared and the celestial event was enjoyed. A recipe and an eclipse are an easy way to share some of the niceties in life!
Love and Murder
The recipe for Love and Murder, despite the circuitous way it arrived in my kitchen, is from Nick Bennett of Porchlight, NYC, to Mark Adams (Artist with Cocktail), to Pinterest, to my pal, Toni, and into my glass.
Recipe:
1 oz. Campari
1 oz. Green Chartreuse
1 oz. fresh lime juice
4 drops saline solution (5:1) water and salt in warm water
½ oz. simple syrup, I used agave nectar
Place in a shaker with ice, shake and strain into a cocktail glass.