Here we go with all the get togethers and celebrations that the end of the year brings.

It's a lot of fun, sometimes a bit too much fun when it comes to the alcohol involved.

If you don't drink alcohol or want to break it up a bit, the alternatives can be a bit boring or too sweet.

I like to make iced tea for a change of pace or the following recipes which have a grown up feel to them.

The Chilitini packs a good punch.

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Chilitini

6 slices ginger

½ stalk lemon grass

2 birds eye chilies

1 litre (2 pints) water

 

Bruise the lemongrass with a pestle or a heavy knife handle and cut the chilies in half lengthways.  Place them in a teapot with the ginger.

 

Boil the water and pour over the chilies, ginger and lemon grass then leave them to cool.

 

Chill then serve in a chilled martini glass.

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Pink Bubbles

 

1 tsp. rose water

150 ml (1 glass) sparkling mineral water

1 drop red food dye (optional)

5 frozen raspberries to serve

   

Mix the liquid ingredients together in an attractive glass and serve with the frozen raspberries.