Strawberry Ginger Punch

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

Punch bowls always make me think of school dances. Although I never went to a school dance that had a punch bowl. It seems like something one only sees in movies. Did you ever have a punch bowl at a dance? Somehow I don’t think Boys II Men & punch bowls mix well. Funky Cold Medina? Yes. Now we’re talking.

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

I’ve always wanted a punch bowl. I’m actually on the look-out for one. But when I read this recipe for Strawberry Ginger Punch and when they suggested using a big vase as a punch bowl I thought…WHOA. GENIUS. I also had all of the ingredients at home to make this punch but was missing Brandy…so I used vodka instead! Vases for punch bowls. Vodka for Brandy. We’re improvising!

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

With the strawberries, ginger & basil I’m sure gin would also make a good substitute. Bubbly seltzer finishes this sweet/herbal drink off to make it more of a spritzer! It’s such a refreshing drink! Perfect for summertime. Perfect for school dances? Hmm. I might be guilty of spiking (my own) punch bowl…And if you’re not into spiked punches, you could totally make this without the booze. Just watch your back…someone might have a hidden flask…

And we’re off!

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

First we make the strawberry ginger syrup. Water, strawberries, sugar & ginger go into a pot.

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

You heat it up until the strawberries get soft.

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

Then you pour the syrup over a mesh strainer & BAM. Strawberry ginger syrup. Look at that color. Gorg.

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

The next step is the MUDDLE. A muddler is an essential bar tool. You use it mostly for mojitos!

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

We’re gonna muddle the rest of the ginger, strawberries, lime juice & basil.

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

Add in your vodka.

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

Add in the strawberry basil syrup.

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

Let the mixture sit & develop flavors in the fridge. Now strain into your punch bowl.

 

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

Pour in the seltzer water.

Stir in reserved strawberry slices & some fresh basil. I added lime slices to mine! Add in ice cubes!

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

Serve up!

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

Such pretty cocktails.

 

Strawberry Ginger Punch // shutterbean

Now let’s listen to the Cranberries and dance all awkward to Linger…just like we did at Homecoming.

I’m speaking for myself (kinda).

Strawberry Ginger Punch

makes 6 drinks

recipe adapted from Bon Appetit Magazine

    • 1/3 cup sugar
    • 12 ounces fresh strawberries, hulled, halved or quartered if large (about 3 cups), divided
    • 1 3-inch piece ginger, peeled, thinly sliced, divided
    • 1/2 cup (packed) fresh basil leaves, divided
    • 1 1/2 cups vodka
    • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
    • 2 12-ounce cans seltzer water

Combine sugar, 1/2 cup strawberries, half of ginger, and 1/3 cup water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until berries soften, about 3 minutes. Let cool. Strain and set syrup aside.

Muddle 2 cups strawberries, 1/4 cup basil, and remaining ginger in a large jar or bowl. Add vodka, lime juice, and reserved syrup and stir to combine. Chill at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours to let flavors meld.

Strain mixture into a large punch bowl, pressing on solids to release as much liquid as possible.

Add seltzer and remaining 1/2 cup strawberries and 1/4 cup basil. Serve over ice.

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