Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus: Blog https://www.staynfocus.com/blog en-us (C) Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus (Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) Fri, 16 Aug 2024 16:00:00 GMT Fri, 16 Aug 2024 16:00:00 GMT https://www.staynfocus.com/img/s/v-12/u150850234-o210927393-50.jpg Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus: Blog https://www.staynfocus.com/blog 96 120 Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Classic Mai Tai https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2024/7/classic-mai-tai Hey there! 

 It's July 1st, 4th of July week-- summer is officially here!! The Mai Tai is synonymous with tropical sunshine in my opinion and this feels like the perfect time to make one! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

Special thanks to Viski for gifting us this tiki set of straws, cocktail picks, low ball and high ball glasses!

This recipe makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Pineapple Wedge
Cherry


For Drink
1.5 oz. White Rum
1/2 oz. Orange Curaçao

1 oz. Orgeat
3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
1/2 ounce dark rum (float)
Ice

 

You will also need 1 rocks tumbler glass and shaker cup.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add all ingredients except the dark rum:
    • 1.5 oz. White Rum
    • 1/2 oz. Orange Curaçao (can substitute for Triple Sec, Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
    • 1 oz. Orgeat
    • 3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
    • Ice
  2.  Shake well to chill.
  3. Strain into your ice filled & chilled rocks tumbler.
  4. Float 1/2 oz dark rum on top.
  5. Garnish with pineapple wedge, cherry and pineapple leaves if you wish.
  6. Grab a seat at the pool and Enjoy!

        

 

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Press Play! 

 


 

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“Live in the sunshine. Swim in the sea. Drink in the wild air.”

– Ralph Waldo Emerson
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) curacao lime mai tai orange liqueur orgeat rum https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2024/7/classic-mai-tai Tue, 02 Jul 2024 00:54:02 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Lemon Solstice https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2024/6/lemon-solstice Hey there! 

Here's a dedication to the long hot sticky days of summer. Cool off with this light and refreshing citrusy mint cocktail. As per usual, we did the most and played with some molecular gastronomy for the garnish. You can find specific instructions to make your own version of "caviar" or flavored spheres online. We used a kit from Molecule-R.  We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Mint Leaf
Butterfly Pea Flower Caviar


For Simple Syrup
1.5 cups granulated sugar
1.5 cups water
1 vanilla bean
1-2 sprigs of mint
1/4 tsp. lime zest
1/2 tsp. salt

 

For Drink
1 ounce distilled white rum
1 ounce limoncello (Italian lemon liqueur)
1/2 ounce high proof vodka
3/4 ounce, Disaronno
20 ml. vanilla mint simple syrup
20 ml. fresh squeezed lime juice
6-8 mint leaves
Ice

 

For Butterfly Pea Flower Caviar (optional garnish)

We used a molecular gastronomy kit to turn brewed and chilled butterfly pea flower tea into caviar spheres using calcium lactate and sodium alginate.

 

You will also need 1 rocks tumbler glass and a shaker cup.

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Let's Make the Simple Syrup!

  1. To a sauce pan over medium heat, add
    • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
    • 1.5 cups water
    • 1 vanilla bean
    • 1-2 sprigs of mint
    • 1/4 tsp. lime zest
    • 1/2 tsp. salt
  2. Let simmer until reduced to about half.
  3. Place in a heat resistant container and set aside to cool.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add all ingredients:
    • 1 oz. distilled white rum

    • 1 oz. limoncello

    • 1/2 oz. high proof vodka

    • 20 ml. vanilla mint simple syrup

    • 20 ml. fresh squeezed lime juice 

    • 6-8 mint leaves

    • ice

  2.  Shake well to chill
  3. Add Ice to your rocks tumbler
  4. Strain cocktail 
  5. Garnish with mint leaf and optional tea caviar
  6. Enjoy!

        

 

Mixology Monday - Lemon Solstice

Press Play! 

 


 

     
   

    

"I wonder what it would be like to live in a world where it was always June."

— L.M. Montgomery


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) butterfly pea flower lemon lime limoncello mint rum vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2024/6/lemon-solstice Mon, 24 Jun 2024 21:45:16 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Dog Days of Summer https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/8/dog-days-of-summer Hey there! 

Happy 1st day of August! We took a little time off but we're back (albeit a day late) with a refreshing cocktail perfect for the hottest days of summer. We infused bourbon with orange and cinnamon spice tea and then got a little fancy with the garnish.  We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

 

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Orange Slice

For Drink
1.5 ounces orange spice tea infused bourbon (ingredients and steps below)
1/2 ounce, lime juice
1/2 ounce, simple syrup
3/4 ounce, Disaronno
3 to 4 dashes of orange blossom water
1-2 pinches of ground cloves

Ice

For Orange Spice Tea Infused Bourbon
1 orange spice tea bag ( we used Twinings Orange & Cinnamon Spice )
Hot water
3-4 oz Bourbon

 

You will also need 1 rocks tumbler glass, mixing glass and shaker cup.

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Let's Make the Orange Tea Infused Bourbon!

  1. Dip the teabag into boiling hot water for a few seconds, just until it just starts to steep.
  2.  Transfer the teabag to mixing glass with 3-4 oz bourbon and let sit for about 10-15 minutes before discarding the teabag.


Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add all ingredients:
    • 1.5 ounces orange spice tea infused bourbon
    • 1/2 ounce lime juice
    • 1/2 ounce simple syrup
    • 3/4 ounce Disaronno
    • 3 to 4 dashes of orange blossom water
    • 1-2 pinches of ground cloves
    • Ice
  2.  Shake well to chill.
  3. Add Ice to your rocks tumbler
  4. Strain cocktail 
  5. Garnish with orange slice 
    • For a little razzle dazzle, sprinkle your slice with clove and sugar and place in airfryer on lowest setting for a few minutes until sugar is sticky but orange rind is still pliable.
    • Remove slice and cut a slit from the middle of slice to one edge. Roll your slice to make a rose and secure with toothpicks.
  6. Enjoy!

        

 

Mixology Monday - Dog Days of Summer

Press Play! 

 


 

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"Summer is the annual permission slip to be lazy. To do nothing and have it count for something. To lie in the grass and count the stars. To sit on a branch and study the clouds."

— Regina Brett
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) Bourbon bourbon sour disarona orange orange blossom water https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/8/dog-days-of-summer Tue, 01 Aug 2023 15:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Pineapple Blossom https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/6/pineapple-blossom Hey there! 

This "patio pounder", The Pineapple Blossom, comes from Thirsty Whale on Tiktok! We loved it so much we wanted to share this quick and delicious summer cocktail with you. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Pineapple Wedge

For Drink
2 oz. Bourbon 
3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
1 oz. Pineapple Juice
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
3-4 Dashes Orange Bitters (We used Scrappy Bitters- Orange)

Ice

You will also need 1 rocks tumbler glass and shaker cup.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add all ingredients:
    • Bourbon (2 oz)
    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (3/4 oz)
    • Pineapple Juice (1 oz)
    • Simple Syrup (3/4 oz)
    • 3-4 Dashes Orange Bitters (We used Scrappy Bitters- Orange)
    • Ice
  2.  Shake well to chill.
  3. Strain into your ice filled & chilled rocks tumbler.
  4. Garnish with pineapple wedge.
  5. Enjoy!

        

 

Mixology Monday - Pineapple Blossom

Press Play! 

 


 

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You know what rhymes with Monday? Bourbon!

-anonymous
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) Bourbon bourbon sour pineapple pineapple juice https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/6/pineapple-blossom Mon, 12 Jun 2023 17:47:33 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Jammed Up (a Daiquiri) https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/5/jammed-up Hey there! 

The daiquiri is one of the six basic drinks listed in David A. Embury's classic The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks and features main ingredients rum, citrus juice, and sugar. We decided to elevate this a little with a mixture of Fig, Hibiscus and Apricot Jam, then we topped with ginger ale and a spritz of absinthe. I really really enjoyed sipping on this. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Several spritz of Absinthe

For Drink
1 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
2 oz. White Rum
4 Bar Spoons of your favorite jam/preserve (we used a mix of apricot hibiscus & fig preserves)
2-3 oz. Ginger Ale

You will also need 1 Collins Glass, strainer, mixing cup, atomizer filled with absinthe and ice.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Chill your Collins glass and set aside.
  2. In your mixing cup add:
    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (1 oz.)
    • Simple Syrup (3/4 oz.)
    • White Rum (2 oz.)
    • 4 Bar Spoons of your favorite jam/preserve (we used a mix of apricot hibiscus & fig preserves)
    • Ice
  3.  Stir well and set aside.
  4. Spritz the inside of your chilled Collins glass with Absinthe (3-4 sprays).
  5. Fill with Ice.
  6. Strain in your cocktail.
  7. Top with Ginger Ale.
  8. Spritz again with Absinthe.
  9. Enjoy!

        

Mixology Monday - Jammed Up  Press Play! 

 


 

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"When Life Hands you Lemons, Make Daiquiris"


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) apricot bacardi daiquiri fig Rum https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/5/jammed-up Mon, 15 May 2023 21:05:35 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Cherry Blossom Lemonade https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/4/Cherry-Blossom-Lemonade Hey there! 

It's cherry blossom season and although we don't have any actual cherry blossoms super close to us we were inspired! I love a nice and tart lemonade so honestly this is perfect for me! "The national flower of Japan, the cherry blossom – or Sakura, represents a time of renewal and optimism. The pops of pink mark the ending of winter and signify the beginning of spring." I am sooo ready for spring!! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

 

CBL-IMG_9003CBL-IMG_9003
            

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Lemon Slice/ Wheel

For Drink
3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
1 1/4 oz. Rye Whiskey
1/2 oz. Campari
Splash of Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur 
3-4 Dashes Citrus Bitters

You will also need 1 rocks tumbler, strainer, hawthorne strainer, shaker cup and ice.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add all ingredients:
    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (3/4 oz.)
    • Simple Syrup (3/4 oz.)
    • Bitters (3-4 Dashes)
    • Campari (1/2 oz.)
    • Rye Whiskey (1  1/4 oz.)
    • Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur (Splash)
    • Ice
  2.  Shake well to chill
  3. Double strain into your ice filled rocks tumbler
  4. Garnish with your lemon slice
  5. Enjoy!

  Mixology Monday - Cherry Blossom Lemonade      Press Play! 

 


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 “Let us find inner freedom in each lucky moment that we encounter, like a sun-basking butterfly that finds peace on a cherry blossom petal.” 

— Erik Pevernagie
 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands campari cherry lemonade rye whiskey whiskey https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/4/Cherry-Blossom-Lemonade Tue, 18 Apr 2023 17:49:09 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Vegan Flavored Air Foam https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/4/vegan-flavored-air-foam Hey there! 

On April 1st we had a little fun on Instagram and announced the launch of our new (fake) company Foam Alone which boasts shelf stable flavored vegan air foam garunteed for 30 days. See here: https://foamalone.co

Although Foam Alone is a joke; this recipe is NOT!! If you are looking to create a light and airy vegan foam perfect for cocktails or culinary works of art, give this a try! The foam will last 15 - 30 minutes and can be as fluffy as you like! The recipe calls for soy lecithin, I happened to have some in powder form already, from a molecular gastronomy kit but you can find variations of this online and in person.

Have fun creating!

Here's what you need:
Juice of choice
Soy Lecithin
Immersion Blender

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In a tall and wide container pour in your juice and lecithin. (approx 2g of soy lecithin for 250ml juice)

    • More liquid in your ratio = looser foam, less liquid = lighter fluffier foam

  2. Use an immersion blender to mix everything.

  3. Keep the blender half in liquid, half out when blending.

    • This motion help to incorporate air into the mixture, the longer you mix the more foam you get.

  4. Scoop the foam and put it on top of your masterpiece.

  5. Enjoy!

Note: You can store unused liquid in the fridge or freezer and re blend for more foam when you need it!

 

 

Flavored Air Foam

       Press Play! 

 


 
    
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FOAM ALONE

 


 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) air foam cocktail garnish soy lecithin https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/4/vegan-flavored-air-foam Mon, 03 Apr 2023 20:20:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - ShinJu Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/3/shinju-sour Hey there! 

Food photography has facilitated many great things for me and I have met some amazing  people along the way. A couple years ago I met Foodies (And Photographers) Vanessa and Thory from Oven 350 on Instagram and quickly realized we lived less than 10 min from each other! We had fun hanging out this weekend and this was one of the cocktails Frank whipped up for us. It has all of the things I love! It's a sour cocktail with orange and cherry notes, made with Shin Ju Whiskey topped off with some serious froth! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

 

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Orange Peel

For Drink
3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
1 Egg White
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
3/4 oz. Cointreau
1/2 oz. Shin Ju Whiskey
Splash Campari
Splash Bourbon Cherry Syrup
3-4 Dashes Citrus Bitters

You will also need 1 rocks tumbler, strainer, hawthorne strainer, shaker cup and ice.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add:
    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (3/4 oz.)
    • 1 Egg White
  2. Dry Shake (without ice) for at least 30 seconds vigorously.
  3. Add remaining ingredients to shaker cup:
    • Simple Syrup (3/4 oz.)
    • Shin Ju Whiskey (3/4 oz.)
    • Cointreau (1/2 oz.)
    • Bitters (3-4 Dashes)
    • Campari (Splash)
    • Bourbon Cherry Juice (Splash)
    • Ice
  4. Shake well to chill.
  5. Double strain into your rocks tumbler
  6. Express citrus oils from orange peel and toss it in the glass.
  7. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - ShinJu Sour       Press Play! 

 


 
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“Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough.”

– Mark Twain
 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands bourbon cherry orange whiskey whiskey sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/3/shinju-sour Mon, 27 Mar 2023 22:25:06 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Pauline https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/3/pauline Hey there! 

We recently came across this recipe on Punch Drink's website and definitely wanted to give it a go! This rum sour recipe comes from the Savoy Cocktail Book and was originally made with wormwood bitters. We replaced the wormwood bitters with a combination of absinthe and orange bitters. We also added a few dashes of Fee Foam for a little bit of froth. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Pinch of Nutmeg 

For Drink
1 3/4 oz. - 2 oz. Un-aged Haitian Rum
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
3-4 Dashes Orange Bitters
3-4 Dashes Fee Foam
~1 Barspoon Absinthe

Ice
 

You will also need 1 coupe glass or nick & nora glass, a shaker cup, strainer and bar spoon. 

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Let's chill our glass first. You can either place your glass in the freezer or fill the glass with ice and water and set aside.

  2. Add all of your ingredients to the shaker cup:

    • Un-aged Haitian Rum (1 3/4 oz. - 2 oz)

    • Simple Syrup (3/4 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (3/4 oz.)

    • Dashes Orange Bitters (3-4 dashes)

    • Dashes Fee Foam (3-4 dashes)

    • Absinthe (~1 barspoon)

    • Ice

  3. ​​​​​​Shake well.​

  4. Strain into your chilled coup glass or Nick & Nora.

  5. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.

  6. Enjoy!!

     Mixology Monday - Pauline Press Play! 

 


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“Drinking Rum before 10am makes you a Pirate, not an Alcoholic.”

– Earl Dibbles Jr.

 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) absinthe pauline rum https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/3/pauline Mon, 20 Mar 2023 20:12:53 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Grasshopper https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/3/grasshopper Hey There,

 

Tis the season for green cocktails so here is our take on a classic, the Grasshopper. This drink has been said to originate in New Orleans and gained popularity in the 1950s. Our take adds muddled mint and crushed oreos and reminds us of thin mint cookies or a decadent dessert. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages


This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Crushed Oreos


For Drink

3-4 Mint Leaves
1.5 oz. Green Creme de Menthe
1.5 oz. White Creme de Cacao
2 oz. Heavy Cream

You will also need 1 coupe glass, a shaker cup, strainer,  muddler, mortar & pestle and ice.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Let's crush some Oreos (without the filling) and set aside.

  2. In your shaker cup, add and muddle a few mint leaves

  3. Add remaining ingredients to shaker cup:
    • 1.5 oz. Green Creme de Menthe

    • 1.5 oz. White Creme de Cacao 

    • 3 oz. Heavy Cream

    • Ice 

  4. Shake well.

  5. Strain into your coupe glass

  6. Garnish with crushed Oreos

  7. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Grasshopper

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The restless grasshopper only finds rest in the gizzard of a bird

-African Proverb
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) creme de menthe grasshopper heavy cream white creme de cacao https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/3/grasshopper Mon, 13 Mar 2023 21:00:22 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - The Smoke https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/3/the-smoke You don't want this smoke.... ok maybe you do!

Hey there! Today we're sharing a cocktail made with Vodka from our home state NJ! Bone Black Vodka is made in small batches at All Points West Distillery in the Ironbound district of Newark. We added actual smoke along with Fire Tincture from Scrappy Bitters. This drink has all of my favorite things, sage, thyme, lemon and smoke. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

Learn More about Bone Black/ All Points West Distillery: Click Here
Learn More about Scrappy Bitters: Click Here

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Charred Slice of Lemon
Sprig of Thyme


For Drink
2 oz. Vodka
3-5 Drops Scrappy Bitters Fire Tincture
1 oz. Fresh (Charred) Lemon Juice ** See Steps Below
3/4oz. Simple Syrup
3-5 Sage Leaves
3-5 Sprigs of  Thyme

You will also need 1 rocks tumbler, a mixing glass, strainer, fine mesh strainer, muddler, bar spoon, smoker or flame resistant surface and ice.

 

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Let's Prep the Lemon!

  1. Cut your lemon in half.

  2. Cut one slice from one of your lemon halves

  3. Char everything; we used a grill pan on the stove.

  4. Juice both halves and set slice aside for the garnish.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Let's smoke our glass first

    • With your smoker in your tumbler or on flame resistant surface burn some sage and thyme then flip your glass on top of it.

    • Set Aside.

  2. In a separate mixing glass add:

    • Few sage leaves

    • Several sprigs thyme

    • Simple Syrup (3/4 oz.)

    • Charred Lemon Juice (1 oz.)

  3. Muddle

  4. Add remining ingredients to mixing glass:

    • Vodka (2 oz.)

    • Fire Tincture (3-5 drops)

    • Ice

  5. Stir to chill

  6. To your smoked glass, add a block of ice (we use our ice designer tray to make it *fancy*)

  7. Double strain cocktail over ice

  8. Garnish with thyme and charred lemon slice.

  9. Enjoy!

 

  Mixology Monday - The Smoke  Press Play! 

 


 

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"In a world of smoke and ashes, you are milk and honey."

--India.Arie


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) sage thyme vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/3/the-smoke Mon, 06 Mar 2023 23:18:42 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - BFG https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/2/bfg Hey There!

February is coming to a close but we are not done celebrating and sharing black owned brands. Today, we're sharing an original creation made with Ode to Babel Gin. Ode to Babel is Black Owned/Women Owned Cocktail Bar in Brooklyn. A friend gifted us with a bottle of their in-house gin, distilled with locally grown botanicals and we paired it with blackberries and fig. We also used Black Owned Hella Ginger Bitters. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

Learn More about Ode to Babel Here: About Ode to Babel
Learn More about Ode to Babel Spirits Here: Babel Spirits

Find Hella Bitters Near you: Hella Cocktail Co
Find all of our recipes using black owned brands here: Black Owned

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1/2 Fig or a few blackberries

For Drink
1 1/4 oz. Gin
1/4 oz. Campari
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup (or a little more if you like)
1/2 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
3-4 Dashes Hella Bitters (Ginger)
3-4 Blackberries
1/2 tbsp Fig Jam

You will also need 1 rocks tumbler, a shaker cup, hawthorne strainer, fine mesh strainer, muddler, bar spoon and ice.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In shaker, add: 

    • Blackberries (3-4)

    • Fig Jam (1/2 tbsp.)

    • Simple Syrup (1/2 oz.)

    • Lemon Juice (1/2 oz.)

  2. Muddle Well

  3. Add remaining ingredients to shaker:

    • Gin (1 & 1/4 oz.)

    • Campari (1/4 oz.)

    • Hella Bitters (We used Ginger)(3-4 dashes)

    • Ice

  4. Shake well to chill

  5. Double Strain into your rocks tumbler over ice.

  6. Garnish with Fig or Blackberries

  7. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Fig and Blackberry Gin Cocktail  Press Play! 

  


 

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“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” 

—Harriet Tubman
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands blackberry fig gin https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/2/bfg Tue, 28 Feb 2023 00:07:38 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Shawty Get Loose https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/2/shawty-get-loose Hey There!

Every February we share recipes made with black owned spirits, and this year is no different. This recipe comes from T-Pain's cocktail book, Can I Mix You a Drink. We used Uncle Nearest Rye Whiskey for this bold, Manhattan like cocktail. Nathan "Nearest" Green, known as Uncle Nearest was a former slave who taught Jack Daniel distilling in the 1800s. Now, Uncle Nearest is the most successful black owned distillery in the world. Learn more about Uncle Nearest here. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

Find Uncle Nearest, near you! Find Near Me
Find all of our recipes using black owned brands here: Black Owned
 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Cocktail Cherry 

For Drink
1 oz. Whiskey
1 oz. Sweet Vermouth
1 oz. Campari
1/2 oz. Creme de Cacao

 

You will also need 1 coupe glass, a mixing glass, hawthorne strainer, cocktail pick, bar spoon and ice.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In mixing glass, add: 

    • Whiskey (1 oz.)

    • Sweet Vermouth (1 oz.)

    • Campari (1 oz.)

    • 1/2 oz. Creme de Cacao

    • Ice

  2. Stir 30 seconds

  3. Strain into your coupe glass.

  4. Skewer your cocktail cherry and add as garnish.

  5. Sip slow and Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Get Loose Press Play!    

 


   
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"Black history isn’t a separate history. This is all of our history, this is American history, and we need to understand that."

- Karyn Parsons


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands creme de cacao manhattan t-pain Uncle Nearest whiskey whisky https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/2/shawty-get-loose Mon, 06 Feb 2023 16:25:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - A Word to the Wise (Mocktail) https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/1/word-to-the-wise Hey There,

Today's mocktail has me thinking of warmer days. The fresh sage and pineapple juice pairs so well with our lime oleo saccharum. Oleo saccharum is Latin for oil sugar and it is exactly that. We've included the exact steps below but essentially, it is an oil made from citrus peels mixed with sugar. As the peels sit in the sugar, they secrete natural oils that contain concentrated citrus flavor. We made ours with lime peels but you can also make your oleo saccharum with lemon peels. This oil can be used in cocktails in the same way you would use a simple syrup but you can also use it in other cooking and baking recipes.

This drink is great anytime, not just for dry January! If you are wanting something a little stronger, but still low ABV, swap out the tonic water for 1/2 oz. Vodka and swap the Ginger beer for 1/2 oz. Gin and muddle in a little cucumber before shaking. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

 

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Bunch of Sage Leaves
1 Lime wheel

For Drink
1/2 oz. Lime Oleo Saccharum (see below)
3-4 Fresh sage leaves
3 oz. Pineapple juice
1 oz. Cucumber tonic water
2 oz. Ginger beer
Ice

For Lime Oleo Saccharum (Oil Sugar)
Peel from 6-10 limes
Granulated Sugar


You will also need shaker cup, muddler, strainer, a collins or highball glass and also a small dish and citrus peeler for the oleo saccharum.

 

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Let's Make the Oleo Saccharum!

  1. Peel 6 to 10 limes, leave behind most of the white pith. 

  2. Place peels in a dish and coat completely in granulated sugar. Cover and place in refrigerator for anywhere between 12 and 48 hours. We left ours in for more than 24 hours.  

  3. After oleo saccharum has formed, strain out peels and remaining sugar saving only the oil in a separate airtight  jar or container.

  4. Store in refrigerator for 2 weeks but best to use it it within first week. To lengthen the life span, add a tablespoon of vodka.

​​​​​​ 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In shaker cup add:

    • Lime oleo saccharum (1/2 oz.)

    • Sage leaves (3-4 leaves)

  2. Muddle well

  3. Add Remaining ingredients (except tonic and ginger beer) to shaker:

    • Pineapple juice (3 oz.)

    • Ice

  4. Shake 15-20 seconds to chill.

  5. Fill your Collins or highball with ice

  6. Strain in your mocktail.

  7. Top with

    • Cucumber tonic water (~1 oz.)

    • Ginger beer (~2 oz.)

  8. Garnish with lime wheel and sage.

  9. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday -- WTTW

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"30 days hath September April, June and November. All the rest have 31 except for dry January, which has 5,782"
 






 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) dry january mixed mocktail non-alcoholic oleo saccharum pineapple sage https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/1/word-to-the-wise Mon, 23 Jan 2023 20:37:46 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Miércoles (Mocktail) https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/1/miercoles-mocktail Hey There,

Today's cocktail.... well actually mocktail, is dedicated to Wednesday Addams and the actress who portrays her in the latest series, Jenna Ortega. We thought about Jenna's ethnic background of Mexican and Puerto Rican ancestry and came up with this faux margarita using Ritual 's Non Alcoholic Tequila. We also made a Cointreau substitute sans alcohol... which you can make in two snaps! If you are not quite feeling dry January, feel free to substitute your favorite Blanco or Silver Tequila for a spirited experience! We hope you enjoy this monochrome, sweet & spicy elixir! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!


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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Black Salt for Rim of Glass

For Drink
1.5 oz. Nonalcoholic Tequila
1 oz. of  Fauxtreau (Nonalcoholic Orange Syrup/Cordial) (ingredients and steps below)
1 oz. Coconut Cream,
1 oz . Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (1 large lime)
5-6 Serrano Pepper Slices,
Ice

For Fauxtreau
2-3 oz. Agave Syrup
1 Orange Peel
2-4 Dashes Orange Bitters


You will also need shaker cup, muddler, strainer, small sauce pan and a coup glass or tumbler.

 

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Let's Make the Fauxtreau!

  1. In your small sauce pan add:

    • Agave Nectar (at least 2-3 oz)

    • 1 Orange Peel 

    • Several Dashes of Orange Bitters (We used Hella Orange Bitters)

  2. Warm on low heat for 15 minutes.

  3. Set aside and allow to cool.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Rim your coup glass (or tumbler) with lime juice and black salt. Set aside.

  2. In your shaker cup add:

    • Sliced serrano peppers (5-6)

    • Fauxtreau (Nonalcoholic Orange cordial/syrup) (1 oz.)

  3. Muddle well.
  4. Add remaining ingredients to shaker cup:
    • Ice
    • Nonalcoholic Tequila (We used Ritual) (1.5 oz)
    • Coconut cream (1. oz)
    • Fresh Squeezed Lime juice (1 oz.)
  5. Shake to chill
  6. Double strain into a black salt, rimmed coup glass serve neat, or with crushed ice in tumbler.
  7. Enjoy!

 

MIxology Monday - Miercoles       Press Play!

 


 

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"Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that."

– Martin Luther King Jr.
 






 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands coconut cream dry january margarita mixed mocktail tequila https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/1/miercoles-mocktail Mon, 16 Jan 2023 21:51:46 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Seckel Pear Fizz (Mocktail) https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/1/Seckel-Pear-Fizz-Mocktail Hey There,

Another new year... another dry January.  We came across these Seckel pears while grocery shopping and decided to experiment. These are sweet and taste like both a pear and a apple. We chose to make a fizz "mocktail" and somehow this tastes just like a gin fizz. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!


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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Fresh Basil Leaf

For Drink
3 to 4 Fresh Basil Leaves,
1/2 Chopped Seckel Pear,
2 oz . Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (1 large lime)
1 Egg White
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
2 or 3 oz. Tonic Water
Ice

You will also need shaker cup, mixing glass, muddler, strainer and a coup glass.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your mixing glass add:

    • Basil Leaves (3-4)

    • Chopped Pyrus Pear (1/2 of a small pear)

    • Simple Syrup (3/4 oz.)

  2. Muddle for 30 seconds or so and set aside.

  3. In your shaker cup add:

    • Egg white (just 1)

    • Lime Juice (1 oz.)

  4. Dry Shake vigorously 30-45 seconds.

  5. Add to shaker cup:

    • Basil Pear Mixture

    • Remaining Lime Juice (1 oz.)

    • Ice

  6. Shake to chill and strain into your coup glass.

  7. Top with 2-3 oz. tonic water.

  8. Garnish with basil leaf.

  9. Enjoy!

 

Pyrus Pear Mocktail      Press Play!

 


 

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“Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.”

– Oprah Winfrey
 






 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) dry january fizz lime mixed mocktail pear https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2023/1/Seckel-Pear-Fizz-Mocktail Mon, 09 Jan 2023 23:03:27 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Empress Aviation https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/12/empress-aviation Hey There,

Acording to liquor.com, "the Aviation is a classic gin cocktail dating back to the turn of the 20th century, and it first appeared in Huge Enslinn’s book “Recipes for Mixed Drinks” in 1916 while he was tending bar at New York City’s Hotel Wallick. In the ensuing decades, it was all but forgotten. That’s because one of the drink’s primary ingredients, crème de violette liqueur, disappeared from the market during the 1960s."  We got our hands on the crème de violette liqueur, and decided to use Empress Gin to up the purple hue of this delicious cocktail.  We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!


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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Bourbon or Brandied Cherry

For Drink
2 oz Empress Gin
1/2 oz. Maraschino Liqueur
1/4 oz. Crème de Violette Liqueur
3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
Ice

 

You will also need shaker cup, strainer and a Nick and Nora glass or coup glass.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Add all ingredients into the shaker cup

    • 2 oz Empress Gin

    • 1/2 oz. Maraschino Liqueur

    • 1/4 oz. Crème de Violette Liqueur

    • 3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice

    • Ice

  2. Shake until chilled.

  3. Strain into your Nick and Nora glass

  4. Garnish with bourbon or brandied cherry

  5. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Aviation

     Press Play!

 


 

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“When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return.”
– Leonardo DaVinci
 






 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) Crème de Violette Liqueur empress gin gin https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/12/empress-aviation Mon, 12 Dec 2022 22:34:08 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Bicycle Thief https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/11/bicycle-thief Hey there!

Forgive us... it takes us a while to get into "the holiday spirit" and we're not ready yet! So enjoy this bitter & tart gin cocktail to match our Grinchy demeanor! This cocktail, Bicycle Thief,  was originally created by Zachary Gelnaw-Rubin and Abraham Hawkins for Dutch Kills Bar in NY. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

BT-IMG_9135BT-IMG_9135
 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Grapefruit Slice



For Drink
1 oz. Campari
1 oz. Gin 
1/2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
1 1/2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Grapefruit Juice
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
Soda Water  or Club Soda
Ice

You'll also need a mixing glass, bar spoon,  strainer and a Collins glass.

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. Add all ingredients except soda water to your mixing glass:

    • Ice

    • Campari (1 oz.)

    • Gin  (1 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (1/2 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Grapefruit Juice (1  1/2 oz.)

    • Simple Syrup (1/2 oz.)

  2. Stir to chill

  3. Strain into your ice filled Collins glass

  4. Top with soda water/ club soda

  5. Garnish with grapefruit slice

  6. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Bicycle Thief

           Click to Play!


  

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“A grateful heart is better than a bitter soul.”
― Matshona Dhliwayo
 

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bicycle thief campari gin grapefruit https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/11/bicycle-thief Mon, 28 Nov 2022 14:30:57 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Shawty https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/11/shawty Hey there!

Did you know that  T-Pain has a cocktail recipe book, named appropriately, Can I Mix You a Drink? We picked it up earlier this year and it's full of 50 beautiful and tasty creations. We had some Creme de Cacao left over from last week, AND we were gifted some bitters from Scrappy Bitters so the stars were aligned for us to make the first cocktail in T-Pain's book, "Shawty". We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 

Find Scrappy Bitters: https://www.scrappysbitters.com/

Find Can I Mix You a Drank: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/688058/can-i-mix-you-a-drink-by-t-pain/

This recipe makes 1 large drink. Let's get started!

 

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Orange Peel Twist
1 Lemon Peel Twist


For Drink
2 oz. Bourbon (We used Woodford Reserve)
5 oz. Creme de Cacao 
3 dashes orange bitters
2 dashes aromatic bitters

Ice

You'll also need a mixing glass, julep strainer and a double rocks tumbler.

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1. Add all ingredients to your mixing glass:

    • Ice

    • 2 oz. Bourbon (We used Woodford Reserve)

    • 5 oz. Creme de Cacao 

    • 3 dashes orange bitters

    • 2 dashes aromatic bitters

  2. Stir for 30 seconds

  3. Strain into your chilled rocks tumbler (we added one large ice block)

  4. Express and Garnish with orange and lemon peel.

  5. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Shawty

           Click to Play!


  

 

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"Those who get stuck doing the same things for too long are bound to get left behind the strong who press on and re-invent themselves."

-T-Pain

 

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon cinnamon creme de cacao t-pain https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/11/shawty Mon, 21 Nov 2022 15:30:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Sweater Weather https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/11/sweater-weather Hey there!

We love recreating new recipes we come across just as much as we like creating original cocktails. Today we're sharing a recipe from Chris Leavitt ( @notjustabartender on IG & TikTok). He created this daiquiri variation on the spot and we were intrigued by the flavors. We hope you enjoy this cozy fall drink! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes  1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Grapefruit Peel
Ground Cinnamon


For Drink
1/4 ounce Cinnamon Simple Syrup
1/4 ounce Maple Syrup
1 ounce Fresh Squeezed Grapefruit Juice
1/2 ounce Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
1/4 ounce Creme de Cacao
1 ounce, Jamaican Rum
1 ounce Rye Whiskey

Ice

You'll also need a shaker cup and a  nick & nora glass or coup glass.

 

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1. Add all ingredients to your shaker cup:

    • Cinnamon Simple Syrup (1/4 ounce)

    • Maple Syrup (1/4 ounce)

    • Fresh Squeezed Grapefruit Juice (1 ounce)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (1/2 ounce)

    • Creme de Cacao (1/4 ounce)

    • Jamaican Rum (1 ounce)

    • Rye Whiskey (1 ounce)

    • Ice

  2. Shake well

  3. Strain into Nick & Nora or coup glass

  4. Express and Garnish with grapefruit peel then add a dash of cinnamon

  5. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Sweater Weather           Click to Play!


  

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“Anyone who thinks fallen leaves are dead has never watched them dancing on a windy day.”

- Shira Tamir

 

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cinnamon creme de cacao daiquiri grapefruit https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/11/sweater-weather Mon, 14 Nov 2022 16:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Autumn Spice Pomegranate Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/10/autumn-spice-pomegranate-sour Hey there!

Pomegranate season is short, but sweet. It runs mid September to November so we're right in the middle of it. We had to hop on board and decided to create an autumn tequila sour. We used a blend of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and nutmeg and honestly this drink was a cozy treat. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes  1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Optional Garnish
3-5 Pomegranate Arils
Cinnamon


For Drink
1 1/4 oz. of pomegranate liqueur
1/2  oz. lemon juice

3/4 oz. Anejo Tequila
1 oz. of pomegranate juice
1 tsp agave nectar
2-3 dashes ginger bitters
1 egg white
1 tsp ground spice mixture (cardamom, nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon)
Ice

You'll also need a shaker cup and a  rock's tumbler or coup glass.

 

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In shaker cup add:

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (.5 oz.)

    • Egg White

    • Spice Mixture (1 tsp)

  2. Dry shake (no ice) for 30 seconds

  3. Add remaining Ingredients to shaker cup:

    • Pomegranate Liqueur (1.25 oz.)

    • Pomegranate Juice (1 oz.)

    • Anejo Tequila (.75 oz.)

    • Agave Nectar (1 tsp)

    • Ginger Bitters (2-3 dashes)

  4. Strain into tumbler or coup glass

  5. Garnish with dash of cinnamon and pomegranate arils if you like.

  6. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Spiced Pom Sour          Click to Play!


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If you want to make some memories, add some tequila.

-unknown

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) pomegranate sour tequila https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/10/autumn-spice-pomegranate-sour Mon, 24 Oct 2022 15:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - PB&J Whiskey Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/9/pbj-whiskey-sour Hey there!

This recipe has been a long time coming. We had planned to create a PB&J cocktail after coming across Skrewball PB Whiskey a while ago but hadn't quite worked out the ratios. Our inspiration was renewed after visiting Boston and tasting the pb&j cocktail at Earl's. We opted to create our own syrup using blackberries instead of using a raspberry jelly, but here is where you can be creative. Feel free to use any fruit or jelly you'd like! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes  1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1-2 Blackberries
1 Cocktail Pick

For Blackberry Syrup
Equal parts water & sugar
Several fresh blackberries


For Drink
1 1/2 oz. Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey
1/2 oz. sweet red wine (Note: We used a Dornfelder for its sweet blackberry & plum taste, but almost any sweet red wine will do.)
1/2 oz. Chambord
3/4 oz. Blackberry syrup* 
1 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
1 Egg White

 

You'll also need a small sauce pan, shaker cup, mixing glass, ice, strainer and a  rock's tumbler.

 

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Let's Make the Syrup:

  1. Mix one part water & one part sugar.

  2. Add in several fresh blackberries.

  3. Stir and macerate blackberries with syrup solution over medium low heat until the liquid is reduced by about 2/3 (about 15 to 20 minutes).

  4. Pour in heat resistant container and set aside to cool.

PBJ-9H9A0082PBJ-9H9A0082
 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In mixing glass add:

    • Ice

    • Add blackberry syrup (3/4 oz.)

    • Chambord (1/2 oz.)

    • Sweet red wine (1/2 oz.)

  2. Stir until chilled and set aside. 

  3. In your Boston shaker add:

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon juice (1 oz.)

    • 1 Egg white

  4. Dry shake for 30 seconds. (shake without ice)

  5. Next, Add ice and Peanut Butter whiskey (1 1/2 oz.) to your Shaker and shake for an additional 20 to 30 seconds.

  6. In your Rocks Tumblr glass pour the blackberry cordial mixture. 

  7. Add a large block of ice then top with your peanut butter sour mix.

  8. Garnish with blackberries and enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday -PB&J         Click to Play!


 

PBJ-9H9A0093PBJ-9H9A0093 PBJ-9H9A0122PBJ-9H9A0122 PBJ-9H9A0131PBJ-9H9A0131

 

 

“It is true that whisky improves with age. The older I get, the more I like it.” 

– Robert Black
 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) pb&j peanut butter whiskey skrewball whiskey whiskey sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/9/pbj-whiskey-sour Mon, 26 Sep 2022 20:22:53 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Matcha Dame Blanche https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/9/matcha-dame-blanche Hey There,

This cocktail is interesting, sophisticated and complex! We came across this recipe on TikTok (@moresavorygoods) who shares he discovered it at Handshake Speakeasy Bar in Mexico City and reverse engineered it. We felt like giving this a shot and found it to be extremely good! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!


MDB-IMG_7377MDB-IMG_7377

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 small block of white chocolate

For Vanilla Simple Syrup
1 cup of water
1 cup of sugar
1 vanilla bean or few drops of vanilla extract

For Drink
1.5 oz. Vanilla Simple Syrup*
1/2 tsp. Matcha Powder
1 1/4 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
2 tbsp. Greek Yogurt
1 1/2 oz. Bombay Sapphire Gin

Ice 
 

You will also need a blender, mixing glass, bar spoon, small sauce pan, cheesecloth or coffee filter, microplane grater and a rocks tumbler.

 

MDB-IMG_7348MDB-IMG_7348

 

Let's Make the Simple Syrup!

  1. In your small sauce pan add: 

    • 1 Cup Water

    • 1 Cup Sugar

    • Vanilla Bean or Vanilla Extract

  2. Let simmer over medium/low heat until liquid is Reduced by half  (~10-12 mins.)

  3. Set aside to chill.
     

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. First we need to create the cordial.

    • Add Matcha, lemon juice and vanilla simple syrup to blender and blend.

    • Add Greek yogurt and blend again.

    • Strain liquid by pouring liquid into coffee filter or cheese cloth and set cordial aside. We used a funnel to stabilize. This process will be slow and take a little bit of time. 

  2. When you've created the cordial, to your mixing glass add:

    • Equal parts cordial and gin with an ice cube (we used 1 1/2 oz. of each)

    • Stir until chill.

  3. Using a separate cube of ice, shave white chocolate on top and place in tumbler.

  4. Strain mixture (from mixing glass)  into your tumbler and gently stir.

  5. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Matcha Dame Blanche

 Press Play!

 


 

 

MDB-IMG_7369MDB-IMG_7369 MDB-IMG_7349MDB-IMG_7349  

 

 

“But when fall comes, kicking summer out on its treacherous back as it always does one day sometime after the midpoint of September, it stays awhile like an old friend that you have missed.”

– Stephen King





 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) gin greek yogurt handshake bar matcha matcha dame blanche https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/9/matcha-dame-blanche Mon, 12 Sep 2022 21:12:31 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Rosemary Greyhound https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/9/rosemary-greyhound Hey There,

According to Thrillist.com, the Greyhound cocktail was originally made with gin  & grapefruit juice and is considered the O.G. Gin and Juice. "In 1945, Harper’s magazine published a similar recipe, swapping out gin for vodka, and calling the drink a Greyhound... attributing the cocktail to a chain of restaurants owned by the Greyhound bus line. Today, Greyhounds can be made with either vodka or gin, but vodka is the most commonly used spirit." We infused a simple syrup with rosemary for today's cocktail. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!


GV-IMG_7246bGV-IMG_7246b

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Grapefruit Wedge
1 Sprig Rosemary

For Simple Syrup
1 cup of Water
1 cup of Sugar
4 Sprigs Rosemary

For Drink
2 oz. Vodka
1/2 oz. Rosemary Simple Syrup
4 oz. Grapefruit Juice
Ice

You will also need a rocks tumbler.

 

 

Let's Make the Simple Syrup!

  1. In your small sauce pan add: 

    • 1 Cup Water

    • 1 Cup Sugar

    • 4 Sprigs of Rosemary

  2. Let simmer over medium/low heat until liquid is Reduced by half  (~10-12 mins.)

  3. Set aside to chill.
     

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1.  In your tumbler, add all ingredients:

    • Ice

    • Grapefruit Juice (4 oz.)

    • Vodka (2 oz.)

    • Rosemary Simple Syrup (1/2 oz.)

  2. Garnish with grapefruit wedge and sprig of rosemary.

  3. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Rosemary Greyhound_1     Press Play!

 


GV-IMG_7231GV-IMG_7231 GV-IMG_7227GV-IMG_7227
 

“And all at once, summer collapsed into fall.”

-Oscar Wilde


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) grapefruit greyhound vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/9/rosemary-greyhound Mon, 05 Sep 2022 21:09:42 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Maíz Tierno Margarita (Sweet Corn Margarita) https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/8/maiz-tierno-margarita-sweet-corn-margarita Hey There!

We really like corn!! Thanks to TikTok, corn is having a moment right now! We are on board and came across a recipe by Lauren Grant from @ZESTFULKITCHEN and had to give a shot! Yes this margarita is infused with sweet corn, and it is better than I imagined! The overall flavor is not super corn forward... the end result is silky smooth with a little kick. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

CM-IMG_6815CM-IMG_6815

                

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1-2 Sprigs of Cilantro
1 Mini Elote (optional)

Lime Juice & Salt / Chili Mixture


For Drink
4 oz. Sweet Corn Kernels (about ⅔ cup, about 1 ear of corn)
1 tablespoon Agave Syrup
12 Cilantro Leaves
4 oz Tequila Blanco
1/2 oz. Grand Marnier
2 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
Ice

You will also need a shaker cup, muddler, fine mesh strainer, tumbler or margarita glass and 2 small plates to help rim your glass. As well as all ingredients a tools outlined for the optional elote.

CM-IMG_6807CM-IMG_6807

Let's Make the Mini Elote!

  1. I adjusted my recipe for Elote Inspired Airfryer Corn Ribs and substituted with halved baby corn.
  2. Find the full recipe here: Elote Corn Ribs
  3. Note: Mini elote was skewered after cooking then sprinkled with lime juice, chopped cilantro and cotija cheese.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Cut kernels off one ear of corn. 

  2. Add to microwave safe dish and add a little water, cover with plastic, and microwave until the corn is steamed (approx 1:30). Set aside. 

  3. Use about 1/2 ounce of lime juice and salt /chili mixture to rim your glass. Set aside.

    • Mixture includes same dry ingredients as the airfryer elote : garlic, chili powder, salt, pepper, paprika

  4. In your shaker cup, add:

    • Corn

    • Cilantro

    • Agave Nectar (1 tbsp)

  5. Muddle Well (approx. 2 minutes; the corn will begin to release liquid)

  6. Add Remaining Ingredients:

    • Tequila (4 oz.)

    • Lime Juice (2 oz.)

    • Grand Marnier (1/2 oz.)

    • Ice

  7. Shake Well

  8. Add Ice to your rimmed glass and strain in cocktail 

  9. Garnish with cilantro and optional elote or lime wedge

  10. Enjoy!

 

Sweet Corn Margarita    Press Play!       


CM-IMG_6812CM-IMG_6812 CM-IMG_6797CM-IMG_6797
 

 

 

"I cant imagine a more beautiful thing. It's corn! I can tell you all about it! I mean look at this thing...!"

~Corn Kid 2022

]]>
(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) elote fruit itscorn margarita mexico sweet corn tequila tequila cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/8/maiz-tierno-margarita-sweet-corn-margarita Mon, 29 Aug 2022 20:06:25 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Smoked Pineapple Gin Cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/8/smoked-pineapple-gin-cocktail Hey There,

We're sharing another gin cocktail this week, this time with some smokey pineapple! We love Empress Gin not only for the taste but for the color that really made this cocktail standout. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!


SPG-IMG_6751SPG-IMG_6751

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Grilled Pineapple Wedge

For Simple Syrup
1 cup of water
1 cup of sugar
Chopped pineapple including skin

For Drink
3/4 oz Pineapple Simple Syrup
1.25 oz. Empress Gin
3/4 oz. Grand Marnier
Small Handful Chopped Pineapple
1 oz. Lime Juice
Cinnamon
Ice

You will also need a cocktail smoker, mixing glass, muddler, bar spoon, small sauce pan, fine mesh strainer and a rocks tumbler

 

SPG-IMG_6764SPG-IMG_6764

Let's Make the Simple Syrup!

  1. In your small sauce pan add: 

    • 1 Cup Water

    • 1 Cup Sugar

    • Chopped Pineapple with Skin

  2. Let simmer over medium/low heat until liquid is Reduced by half  (~10-12 mins.)

  3. Set aside to chill.
     

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1.  Smoke tumbler then cover and set aside

  2. Muddle Pineapple, Cinnamon, & Grand Marnier in your mixing glass

  3. Add

    • Ice

    • Pineapple Simple Syrup (3/4 oz.)

    • Fresh Lime Juice (1 oz.)

  4. Stir until chilled

  5. Add Ice to the smoked tumbler

  6. Double strain cocktail over ice

  7. Top with empress gin

  8. Garnish with grilled pineapple wedge

  9. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Smoked Pineapple Gin     Press Play!

 


 

SPG-IMG_6760SPG-IMG_6760

 

“August is like the Sunday of summer.”






 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) Empress Gin gin gin sour pineapple https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/8/smoked-pineapple-gin-cocktail Tue, 23 Aug 2022 00:48:26 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Blueberry Pomegranate Gin Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/8/blueberry-pomegranate-sour Hey There,

Over here, whiskey sours and gin sours are some of our favorite cocktails to make. Today we are sharing an original recipe for a blueberry pomegranate gin sour we think you're gonna love! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!
 

BPS-IMG_6572BPS-IMG_6572

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Small Bunch of Basil

For Drink
1 1/4 oz. gin
3/4 oz. pomegranate liquor
1/2 oz. simple syrup
1 oz. fresh lime juice
one small handful fresh blueberries
2 to 3 fresh basil leaves
1 egg white
Ice

You will also need 1 Coupe Glass and a shaker cup. 

BPS-IMG_6590BPS-IMG_6590

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add: 

    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (1 oz.)

    • Egg White (1)

  2. Dry Shake vigorously 20-30 seconds

  3. In separate cup/glass add:

    • Blueberry

    • Fresh Basil

  4. Muddle Well

  5. To muddled mixture, add remaining ingredients:

    • Simple Syrup (1/2 oz.)

    • Pomegranate Liquor (3/4 oz.)

    • Gin (1 1/4 oz.)

    • Ice

  6. Combine with Egg white/Lime Juice and Shake for another 20-30 seconds.

  7. Strain into coupe glass

  8. Garnish with basil leaves

  9. Enjoy! 

 

Mixology Monday - Blueberry Pom Sour    Press Play!

 


BPS-IMG_6606BPS-IMG_6606

 

 

"August rain: the best of the summer gone, and the new fall not yet born. The odd uneven time."

— Sylvia Plath






 

]]>
(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) blueberry gin gin sour pomegranate https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/8/blueberry-pomegranate-sour Tue, 16 Aug 2022 00:13:23 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Coffee Old Fashioned https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/7/coffee-old-fashioned Hey There!

We are no strangers to old-fashioneds and we are big coffee lovers so it was only a matter of time before we infused them both! Not only did we use a coffee flavored whiskey and coffee bitters... we also made an espresso simple syrup! *Chef's Kiss*  This cocktail is very coffee forward, feel free to adjust the ratio of the espresso simple syrup to dial it back if you like. All of the details are below. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

COF-IMG_5980COF-IMG_5980

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Orange Peel

 

For Espresso Simple Syrup
1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
1/3 cup Water
2 oz. Espresso
2 to 3 Drops of Vanilla Extract
1 Orange Peel

For Drink
2 oz. Coffee Flavored Whiskey (Ellington Reserve - Cold Brew)
1 tbsp Water
3-4 Dashes Coffee Cocktail Bitters (Warn Reserve - Coffee Pecan)
1/2 oz. Espresso Simple Syrup
1 Fresh Orange Peel
One large cube/sphere of clear Ice

 

You will also need a rocks tumbler and bar spoon.

COF-IMG_5997COF-IMG_5997
 

Let's Make the Espresso Simple Syrup!

  1. Add all ingredients to a small pot and bring to a simmer.
  2. Reduce heat to low and allow about half the liquid to evaporate. (~10-12 mins.)
  3. Allow to cool to at least room temperature & set aside.
  4. Refrigerate unused portion.
     

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your rocks tumbler add:
    • Coffee Whiskey (2 oz.)
    • Water (1 tbsp.)
    • Espresso Simple Syrup (1/2 oz.)
    • Coffee Bitters (3-4 dashes)
    • Ice Cube
  2. Stir gently
  3. Garnish with orange peel
  4. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Coffee Old Fashioned
 Press Play!    


 

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 "Adventure in life is good. Consistency in coffee even better." 

-Justina Headley
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon coffee old fashioned old fashioned whiskey https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/7/coffee-old-fashioned Mon, 25 Jul 2022 19:10:34 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Sazerac Cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/7/sazerac-cocktail Hey There!

 Today we are sharing our take on the classic, Sazerac which hails from New Orleans and is credited as being among the first true cocktails. The first Sazerac cocktails were made with Cognac: a brand name called Sazerac. Around the 1870’s, rye whiskey replaced the Cognac... today, it can be made with either or both! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

SZ-IMG_5759SZ-IMG_5759                  

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Lemon Peel


For Drink
Absinthe (for rinse)
2 oz. Cognac
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
Several dashes Peychaud's Bitters (or Bitters of your choice)

Ice (Crushed & Cubed)

You will also need a mixing glass and an rocks tumbler or old fashioned glass.

SZ-IMG_5765SZ-IMG_5765

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Rinse your rocks tumbler or old fashion glass with Absinthe, then fill with crushed ice and set aside.

  2. In your mixing glass, add:

    • Cubed Ice

    • Cognac (2 oz.)

    • Simple syrup (1/2 oz)

    • Bitters (3-4 dashes)

  3. Stir until chilled.

  4. Discard crushed ice and excess Absinthe in your prepared glass from step 1.

  5. Strain drink into your glass.

  6. Express with lemon peel and add as garnish.

  7. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Sazerac

    Press Play!       


 

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"It is well to remember that there are five reasons for drinking: the arrival of a friend, one’s present or future thirst, the excellence of the cognac, or any other reason."

 -W.C. Fields

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) absinthe cognac cognac cocktail sazerac https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/7/sazerac-cocktail Mon, 18 Jul 2022 14:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Beet-nik Gimlet https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/7/beet-nik-gimlet Hey There!

A few weeks ago we spent some time in Chicago. While there we dined at Beatnik, a boho chic, river side Moroccan, French, Italian oasis. This place is an entire mood. With our entrees, we ordered their heirloom carrots which were served on top of their roasted beet tahini hummus and we fell in love with the combination.  We hope you enjoy our interpretation of the dish in cocktail form!! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

 

BS-IMG_5480BS-IMG_5480                 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Sprig of Basil


For Drink
1 oz. Fresh squeezed lime juice (~1 Lime)
1 egg white
3-4 Basil leaves
Several dashes citrus bitters
0.75 oz. Simple syrup
1.25 oz.  Hendricks Lunar gin
1 ounce carrot juice
1 ounce beet juice
1 pinch of salt

Ice

You will also need a shaker cup and coup glass.

BS-IMG_5506BS-IMG_5506

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup, add:

    • Egg White (1)

    • Bitters (Several Dashes)

    • Basil (3-4 leaves)

    • Lime Juice (1 oz.)

  2. Dry shake (without ice) well for 30 seconds

  3. Add Remaining Ingredients:

    •  Simple syrup (3/4 oz)

    • Hendricks Lunar Gin (1 1/4 oz.) 

    • Carrot Juice (1 oz.)

    • Beet Juice (1 oz.)

    • Pinch of salt

    • Ice

  4. Shake Well

  5. Strain into your coup glass 

  6. Garnish with sprig of basil

  7. Enjoy!

 

  Mixology Monday - Beetnik Gimlet  Press Play!       


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“Be a rainbow in somebody else's cloud.”
― Maya Angelou

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) beet juice carrot juice gimlet gin https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/7/beet-nik-gimlet Mon, 11 Jul 2022 20:33:23 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Mint and Jalapeño Infused Margarita https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/7/mint-jalapeno-infused-margarita Hey There!

The margarita is a super popular cocktail and definitely makes us think of summer. On this first Monday of July, in the thick of summer we're going to keep it spicy with this mint and jalapeño infused margarita. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

TIKI-IMG_5316TIKI-IMG_5316                

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Pineapple Wedge (we sprinkled a little nutmeg on ours)
1-2 Sprigs of Mint 
1-2 Slices of J
alapeños
Lime Juice & Nutmeg Sugar Mixture to Rim Glass


For Drink
1.5 oz. Mint Jalapeño Infused Tequila (We used ‘El Espolon’ Tequila Blanco)
3/4 oz. Triple Sec
2 oz. Pineapple Juice
1 oz. Lime Juice
1/4 oz. Simple Syrup
1/4 cup Diced Pineapple
1 Slice Jalapeño
2-4 Fresh Mint Leaves
~ 1/8 tsp Ground Nutmeg
3 to 4 Dashes Orange Bitters

Ice
 

You will also need a shaker cup, fine mesh strainer, tumbler or margarita glass and 2 small plates to help rim your glass.

TIKI-IMG_5350TIKI-IMG_5350

Let's Make the Infused Tequila!

  1. In a mason jar, add:

    • 8 oz. Tequila

    • 4-5 Jalapeño Slices

    • 2-4 Large Mint Leaves

  2. Let sit several hours to overnight (the longer it sits, the spicier it gets :) )

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Use about 1/2 ounce of lime juice and nutmeg sugar mixture to rim your glass. Set aside.

  2. In your shaker cup, add:

    • diced pineapple (1/4 cup)

    • 1 jalapeño slice

    • Mint Leaves (2-4)

    • Lime Juice (1 oz.)

  3. Muddle Well

  4. Add Remaining Ingredients:

    • Nutmeg

    • Bitters

    • ​​I​nfused Tequila (1.5 oz.)

    • Triple Sec (3/4 oz.)

    • Simple Syrup (1/4 oz.)

    • Pineapple Juice (2 oz.)

  5. Shake Well

  6. Add Ice to you nutmeg sugar rimmed glass and strain in cocktail 

  7. Garnish with pineapple wedge, jalapeño slices and sprig of mint

  8. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Jalepeno Pineapple Margarita    Press Play!       



TIKI-IMG_5314TIKI-IMG_5314 TIKI-IMG_5330TIKI-IMG_5330

 

 

"Always make time for the things you love, like drinking and margaritas."

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) jalapeño margarita mexico pineapple tequila tequila cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/7/mint-jalapeno-infused-margarita Mon, 04 Jul 2022 17:10:42 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Lavender Lemon Drop Martini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/6/lavender-lemon-drop-martini Hey There,

According to Chilled Magazine, "the Lemon Drop Martini is an adult version of the 19th-century lemon drop candy, the Lemon Drop Martini consists of vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup that’s shaken, strained, and poured into a sugar-rimmed Martini glass."  In our variation, we added Limoncello and garnished ours with a lemon twist and an edible lavender flower. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

LLM-IMG_5272LLM-IMG_5272

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Lemon Peel

1 Edible Lavender Flower 

For Drink
2 oz. Vido Vodka
1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
1/4 oz. Simple Syrup
3/4 ounce Triple Sec
1/4 ounce Limoncello
~1/4 tsp. Lemon Zest

Ice

You will also need 1 Martini Glass and a shaker cup. Feel free to rim your martini glass if you like using lemon juice and granulated sugar and lemon zest.

LLM-IMG_5255LLM-IMG_5255

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add all ingredients

    • 2 oz. Vido Vodka

    • 1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice

    • 1/4 oz. Simple Syrup

    • 3/4 ounce Triple Sec

    • 1/4 ounce Limoncello

    • ~1/4 tsp. Lemon Zest

    • Ice

  2. Shake vigorously 20-30 seconds

  3. Strain into martini glass

  4. Garnish with lemon peel and edible flower

  5. Enjoy! 

Mixology Monday - Lemon Drop Martini    Press Play!

 


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“I believe when life gives you lemons, you should make lemonade...and try to find someone whose life has given them vodka, and have a party.”
― Ron White




 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) lavender lemon drop martini vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/6/lavender-lemon-drop-martini Mon, 27 Jun 2022 20:08:16 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Orange Ginger Whiskey Cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/6/orange-ginger-whiskey-cocktail Hey there!

This weekend we celebrated our sister's return to heaven's glory. We were privileged to share moments with her in this life. So, in proper send off, we dedicate this Mixology Monday to Lisa Maxey-Leverett, mother, soldier, wife, and light in this world. Thanks to @theweekendmixologist for creating this ginger & orange infused whiskey cocktail. We used  Fevertree ginger beer, Cointreau and  herbal bitters from Underberg to recreate this new refreshing classic. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you decide to make this cocktail, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Orange Peel

Mint Bunch

For Drink
.5 oz. Cointreau
1.5 oz. Bourbon Whiskey
Few Dashes of Bitters
Ginger Beer
Ice

You'll also need a Collins glass or highball.

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In your Collins or High Ball add:

    • Ice

    • Cointreau (.5 oz)

    • Bourbon (1.5 oz)

    • Bitters

  2. Top with Ginger Beer

  3. Express with orange peel and add to glass

  4. Garnish with Mint Leaves

  5. Enjoy!!

Mixology Monday - CC     Click to Play!


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“To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.”
― Thomas Campbell
 

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon cointreau orange whiskey https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/6/orange-ginger-whiskey-cocktail Mon, 13 Jun 2022 15:17:51 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Chocolate Covered Cherry Whiskey Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/6/chocolate-covered-cherry-whiskey-sour Hey there!

It's no secret we love bourbon and we love whiskey sours! Here's another sour to add to the collection. We were gifted a bottle of Knob Creek Bourbon Whiskey by one of Frank's cousins (Thank you!). We decided to infuse it with cocoa nibs similar to what we done in the past (see here). If you you are short on time, or do not want to infuse your own whiskey, we recommend purchasing a whiskey like, Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey. In any event, we hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes  1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Cherry
1 Pinch Cocoa Nibs

 

For Drink
1.25 oz. Kentucky Bourbon (We recommend a chocolate infused whiskey like Ballotin Chocolate Whiskey)
.5 oz. Disaronno Amaretto,
4-6 Dashes Angostura Coco Bitters
1 Pinch Cocoa Nibs
1 oz.  Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
~.5 oz. Simple Syrup
~.25 oz Luxardo Cherry Liqueur
 4 Cherries
1 Egg White

You'll also need a shaker cup, ice, strainer and a Nick/Nora coupe glass. 

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In your shaker cup add and muddle:

    • Cherries (~4)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (1 oz.)

  2. Once muddled well, add:

    • Add bitters

    • Pinch of cocoa nibs

    • Add egg white

  3. Dry shake for 20-30 seconds

  4. Add remaining ingredients

    • Ice
    • Chocolate Infused Bourbon Whiskey (1.25 oz.)
    • Amaretto (.5 oz.)
    • Simple Syrup (~.5 oz or 10 ml)
    • Luxardo Liqueur (~.25 oz or 5 ml)
  5. Shake vigorously an additional 15 to 20 seconds,
  6. Double strain into a Nick/Nora coupe glass
  7. Garnish with fresh cherry & remaining pinch of cocoa nibs
  8. Enjoy!!

 

Mixology Monday - Chocolate Cherry Sour         Click to Play!


 

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"When better cherries are not to be had,
We needs must take the seeming best of bad."

-Samuel Daniel

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cherry chocolate whiskey whiskey sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/6/chocolate-covered-cherry-whiskey-sour Mon, 06 Jun 2022 20:49:50 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Blue Long Island Iced Tea https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/5/blue-long-island-iced-tea Hey There!

 We've shared an LIIT before, but we wanted to revisit it especially on this long holiday weekend. If you have a little of this and little of that... this might be a great choice to make if you are entertaining. Personally, I think I prefer this blue variation made with Blue Curacao. What do you think? This recipe came from Vinepair. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 

This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get LIIT!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Lemon Peel Twist
1 Cherry

 

For Drink
3/4 oz White Rum
3/4 oz Vodka
3/4 oz Gin
3/4 oz Tequila

3/4 oz Blue Curacao
1/2 oz Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
1/2 oz Simple Syrup
Lemon - Lime Soda

 

You'll also need, Highball or Collins glass, Ice, Shaker Cup and Hawthorn Strainer

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In your shaker cup, add  everything except lemon lime soda:
    • 3/4 oz White Rum
    • 3/4 oz Vodka
    • 3/4 oz Gin
    • 3/4 oz Tequila
    • 3/4 oz Blue Curacao
    • 1/2 oz Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
    • 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
  2. Shake for 20-30 seconds.
  3. Fill highball or collins glass with ice.
  4. Strain LIIT into glass.
  5. Top with lemon lime soda 
  6. Garnish with lemon twist and cherry
  7. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - LIT Press Play!

 

 

If life gives you lemon, make lemonade…and find someone whose life gave them vodka.

– Ron White
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) blue curacao gin LIIT long island iced tea rum soda sprite tequila vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/5/blue-long-island-iced-tea Mon, 30 May 2022 19:29:47 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Quick Strawberry Frosé https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/5/strawberry-frose Hey There,

Here's another cocktail using bubbly. This time we opted for something more refreshing in the 90º weather we've been having! A frozen Rosé or Frosé is the perfect solution to cool off with. There are a few ways to make this. You can either pour Rosé into ice cube trays and freeze for at least 6 hours or you can freeze the fruit you're adding, in this case the strawberries, OR if you're impatient, like us, you can just use a blender with ice. Those steps are below. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1/2 strawberry
 

For Drink
1 cup (8 oz.) Brut Rosé 
3 cups Ice
3/4 oz. Rose Water
1/2 cup Sugar
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice

You will also need a blender and wine glasses.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Add all ingredients to your blender
    • Rosé (8 oz.)
    • Ice
    • Rose Water  (3/4 oz.)
    • Chopped Strawberries (~1 cup)
    • Sugar (1/2 cup)
    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (2 oz.)
  2. Blend well
  3. Pour into wine glass
  4. Garnish with half a strawberry
  5. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Frose

Click to Play!   


 

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"Always keep a bottle of champagne in the fridge for special occasions. Sometimes, the special occasion is that you’ve got a bottle of champagne in the fridge."

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) frose frozen champagne frozen rose rose strawberry https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/5/strawberry-frose Mon, 23 May 2022 22:55:14 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Pomegranate Mimosa https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/5/pomegranate-mimosa Hey There,

In case you didn't know, today, May 16th is National Mimosa Day.... so we had to oblige! This brunch staple is typically made with orange juice and champagne; we chose to be a little different and add pomegranate liqueur and use Prosecco which is Italian sparkling white wine instead of champagne. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Orange Twist
Several tsp sugar and orange zest for rim of glass
~.5 oz. Lime Juice

 

For Drink
1 oz. Pomegranate Liqueur
3 oz. Orange Juice
~2 oz. Prosecco
Few Dashes of Bitters

You will also need, ice, strainer and champagne flutes.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Dip flute into lime juice then into sugar/orange zest mixture. Set aside.
  2. In mixing glass add:
    • Ice
    • Pomegranate Liqueur (1 oz.)
    • Orange Juice (3 oz.)
    • Few dashes of Bitters
  3. Stir gently
  4. Strain into flute.
  5. Top with Prosecco (~2 oz.)
  6. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Orange Pomergrante Mimosa_1 Click to Play!   


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"Mimosas are a great source for Vitamin C"

 

 


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) mimosa orange juice pomegranate prosecco https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/5/pomegranate-mimosa Mon, 16 May 2022 22:32:44 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Honey Ginger Whiskey Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/5/honey-ginger-whiskey-sour Hey there!

This drink was actually inspired by a bee that found itself trapped in our dining room. We started with the colors black and yellow, the flavor of honey and went from there. I love the smoothness of the Japanese whiskey we chose and how it paired with the added ginger notes. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Lace Tuile (made with black food coloring click here for steps
) or Lemon Wheel

 

For Drink
1.5 oz. Whiskey (We used ShinJu, Japanese Whiskey)
1 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
2 tbsp. Local Honey
1 tbsp Water
3 to 4 Dashes Bitters (We used Hella Ginger Bitters)
1 Egg White
1/4-1/2 tsp. Fresh Grated Ginger

 

You'll also need a shaker cup, ice, strainer and a coup glass. 

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In your shaker cup add:

    • 1 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice

    • 2 tbsp. Local Honey & 1 tbsp Water (for a honey simple syrup)

    • 1 Egg White

    • 1/4-1/2 tsp. Fresh Grated Ginger
       

  2. Dry shake vigorously (without ice) for 30 seconds

  3. Add:

    • 1.5 oz. Whiskey (We used ShinJu, Japanese Whiskey)

    • 3 to 4 Dashes Bitters (We used Hella Ginger Bitters)

    • Ice

  4. Shake again for 20-30 seconds

  5. Double Strain into your coup glass

  6. Garnish with Lace Tuile or lemon wheel

  7. Enjoy!!

        Mixology Monday - Honey Ginger Whiskey Sour Click to Play!


 

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" Words are like bees – some create honey; and others leave a sting."

– unknown

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands ginger honey shinju whiskey whiskey sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/5/honey-ginger-whiskey-sour Mon, 09 May 2022 16:13:30 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Luxardo Lemoncello G&T https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/5/luxardo-lemoncello-gin-and-tonic Hey there!

Today we're sharing another variation of a simple cocktail, the G&T or Gin and Tonic. We stumbled on these pink lemons in the local grocery store and knew we wanted to do something with them.  They are a little smaller and less tart than "regular" lemons and have a  sweeter flavor. They kind of look like tiny grapefruits. We added Lemoncello to amp up the tart lemon notes and we thought this would pair nicely with Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur for a a hint of cherry. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1-3 Pink Lemon Wheels

Mint Bunch (optional)

For Drink
1/2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Juice from a Pink Lemon
1/4 oz. Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur
1/2 oz. Lemoncello
1 1/4 oz. Hendricks Gin
1/4 oz. Simple Syrup
2 1/4 oz. Tonic Water

 

You'll also need a mixing glass, bar spoon, ice, strainer and rocks tumbler. 

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In your mixing glass add all ingredients except tonic water:

    • 1/2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Juice from a Pink Lemon

    • 1/4 oz. Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur

    • 1/2 oz. Lemoncello

    • 1 1/4 oz. Hendricks Gin

    • 1/4 oz. Simple Syrup

    • Ice

  2. Stir

  3. Strain into ice filled tumbler

  4. Top with tonic water

  5. Garnish with pink lemon wheels and mint bunch

  6. Enjoy!!

Mixology Monday - LL Cool GT       

Click to Play!


 

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 “The world’s favorite season is the spring. All things seem possible in May.”

– Edwin Way Teale

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) G&T gin gin and tonic lemoncello luxardo maraschino https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/5/luxardo-lemoncello-gin-and-tonic Mon, 02 May 2022 15:50:51 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Pineapple Campari Cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/4/pineapple-campari-cocktail Hey there!

Continuing with the theme of light and airy drinks for spring, we introduce this low alcohol sip of pineapple, Campari and vermouth. Campari has a bitter taste so feel free to swap with Aperol for something a little sweeter. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Dehydrated Pineapple Slice 

Mint Bunch (optional)

For Drink
3 oz. Fresh Pineapple Juice
1 oz. Campari 
.75 oz. Dry Vermouth 
2-3 Dashes Bitters (We Used Ginger Flavored Bitters by Hella) 

 

You'll also need a rocks tumbler, shaker cup, ice and strainer. We also used a shaker ball to amp up the froth.

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In your shaker cup add all ingredients:

    • Shaker Ball (optional)

    • Fresh Pineapple Juice (3 oz.)

    • Campari (1 oz.)

    • Vermouth (.75 oz.)

    • Bitters (2-3 dashes)

    • Ice

  2. Shake Vigorously

  3. Strain into tumbler

  4. Garnish with dehydrated pineapple slice and mint bunch

  5. Enjoy!!

      Mixology Monday - Pineapple Campari

Click to Play!


 

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"April comes like an idiot, babbling and strewing flowers."

- Edna St. Vincent Millay

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) campari pineapple vermouth https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/4/pineapple-campari-cocktail Mon, 25 Apr 2022 17:25:28 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Strawberry Wallbanger Sunset https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/4/strawberry-wallbanger-sunset Hey there!

So this started out as a Harvey Wallbanger cocktail but we kept going. A Harvey Wallbanger is an elevated screwdriver typically made with 1.5 oz Vodka, 4 oz Orange juice and a float of .5 oz Galliano. We decided to enhance this already great cocktail with muddled strawberries, vanilla simple syrup, grenadine and a splash of tonic water. This light, refreshing drink was like springtime in a glass. We hope you enjoy!

As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Dehydrated Orange Slice 

1/2 Strawberry

For Drink
.75 oz. Galliano
2-3 Fresh Chopped Strawberries (~2-3 Strawberries)*
.50 oz. Vanilla Simple Syrup 
1.5 oz. Vodka 
2.75 oz. Fresh OJ 
.25 oz. Splash Grenadine 
1 oz. Tonic Water

 

You'll also need a rocks tumbler or Collins glass, shaker cup, ice and strainer.

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In your shaker cup add:

  2. Muddle well

  3. Add remaining ingredients except tonic water to shaker cup:​​​​​

    • Vodka (1.5 oz.)

    • Galliano (.75 oz.)

    • Fresh OJ (2.75 oz.)

    • Splash Grenadine (~.25 oz.)

    • Ice

  4. Shake vigorously

  5. Strain into ice filled tumbler or Collins glass

  6. Top with tonic water

  7. Garnish with dehydrated orange slice and halved strawberry

  8. Enjoy!!

  Mixology Monday - Strawberry Wallbanger Sunset     

Click to Play!


 

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"If you can’t say something nice about someone, have another Vodka, it’ll come to you."

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) grenadine harvey wallbanger orangejuice screwdriver strawberry vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/4/strawberry-wallbanger-sunset Mon, 18 Apr 2022 14:00:00 GMT
Caramelized Onion and Gruyere Puff Pastry Bites https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/4/caramelized-onion-gruyere-puff-pastry-bites Hey There!

I love a fancy looking appetizer; especially if it's tasty! I'm even more in love if It's something I can whip together quickly and effortlessly! Puff pastry is great and so versatile-- it works perfectly for handheld bites whether sweet or savory. These caramelized onion gruyere puff pastry bites are my new go to for any friends or family gathering... I'm obsessed! I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as me!

This will make 18 bites. Let's get started!!

 

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What You Need:

  • 1 Package of thawed puff pastry (I prefer Pepperidge Farm; there are 2 sheets in one box)
  • 2 Medium sized onions ( I used red because they're my favorite but yellow onions would be perfect for this recipe also)
  • 1 Sprig of thyme
  • 1/2 tsp Oregano
  • 1.5-2 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 3 tbsp Salted butter
  • 1 Egg
  • 4-5 oz. Grated apple smoked gruyere cheese
  • Salt & Pepper
  • Chopped green onions/scallions and rainbow micro greens (optional garnish)

You'll also need a cast iron pan or dutch oven, knife or pizza cutter, baking sheet and parchment paper.

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Let's Get Started:

Note: Allow yourself extra time for caramelized onions to cool to room temperature before assembling and baking your bites. Keep your thawed puff pastry refrigerated until ready to bake.

  1. Prep the Onions
    • Slice your onions into rings or strips.
    • Using medium heat, add 3tbsp butter and 2 tbsp olive oil to your cast iron pan or dutch oven. As butter melts add sliced onions, thyme and oregano. Let your onions cook down for about 20 minutes but stir periodically to prevent from burning. 
    • When onions are well browned, deglaze the pan with balsamic vinegar. Then transfer to a dish to allow cooling to room temp.

 

  1. Prep the Puff Pastry
    • Preheat Oven to 400º
    • Using your knife or pizza cutter, divide each puff pastry sheet into 9 rectangles.
    • ​​​​​​​Line baking sheet with parchment paper and add your puff pastry rectangles.
    • Crack and beat 1 egg, and brush each rectangle with egg.
    • Poke the center of each rectangle with a fork.

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  1. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Let's Bake
    • ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Grab your room temp caramelized onions and season with salt and pepper.
    • Add grated gruyere cheese and mix well.
    • Place forkful of onion gruyere mixture on each rectangle
    • Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown, rotate after 10 minutes.
    • Remove from oven and allow to cool a bit before garnishing and serving.
    • Enjoy!

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) appetizers baking cooking with nikki food photography puff pastry vegetarian https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/4/caramelized-onion-gruyere-puff-pastry-bites Thu, 14 Apr 2022 02:49:30 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Last Word https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/4/last-word Hey there!

Today's cocktail is a classic from the prohibition era. The Last Word is simple and straightforward, it calls for equal parts of gin, green Chartreuse, Maraschino liqueur and fresh lime juice. I would describe this as tart, and sophisticated. Variations of this cocktail exist, and we've done one previously called, the Paper Plane which uses Bourbon instead of Gin. We hope you enjoy!

As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Lime Twist

1 Cherry

For Drink
3/4 oz. Gin (We used Hendrick's)
3/4 oz. Green Chartreuse
3/4 oz. Maraschino Liqueur
3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice 

 

You'll also need a coup glass or Nick & Nora, shaker cup, Ice and strainer.

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In your shaker cup add

    • 3/4 oz. Gin (We used Hendrick's)

    • 3/4 oz. Green Chartreuse

    • 3/4 oz. Maraschino Liqueur

    • 3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice 

    • Ice

  2. Shake vigorously

  3.  Strain into coup or Nick & Nora glass

  4. Garnish with Lime Peel and Cherry

  5. Enjoy!!

Mixology Monday - Last Word     Click to Play!


 

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“I exercise strong self-control. I never drink anything stronger than gin at breakfast.”

– W.C. Fields
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) chartreuse gin last word maraschino liqueur https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/4/last-word Mon, 11 Apr 2022 17:13:46 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Sunday Morning in the Park https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/4/sunday-morning-in-the-park Hey there!

Today's drink is a riff on the Sunday in the Park cocktail. We swapped out the fresh squeezed lemon juice for orange juice, so we're calling it Sunday Morning in the Park. We stumbled onto the original recipe online and it's my fault. Frank wanted an afterwork drink; however, I had already poured the last glass of wine he had been thinking about having. I also used the last lemon we had in the dish I was photographing! Whoops!  So... it was kind of like a Food Network's Chopped Challenge basket but with alcohol. This was the tasty result, we hope you enjoy!

As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

 

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Orange Wedge

Sprig of Thyme

For Drink
1.5 oz. Lillet Blanc
1.5 oz. Bourbon Whiskey
1/4 oz. Simple Syrup
1 oz. Fresh Squeezes Orange Juice 
1 Sprig Fresh Thyme 
2 oz. Club Soda

 

You'll also need a Collins glass or highball, shaker cup, and strainer.

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In your shaker cup add

    • 1 Sprig of Thyme 

    • Lillet Blanc (1.5 oz.)

    • Bourbon (1.5 oz.)

    • Simple Syrup (1/4 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice (1 oz.)

    • Ice

  2. Shake vigorously

  3. Double Strain into ice filled Collins or Highball

  4. Top with Club Soda

  5. Garnish with Orange Wedge and Thyme Sprig

  6. Enjoy!!

 

Mixology Monday - Sunday Morning    Click to Play!


 

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“It's not so much do what you like as it is that you like what you do.”
― Stephen Sondheim, Sunday in the Park with George
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon lillet blanc whiskey https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/4/sunday-morning-in-the-park Mon, 04 Apr 2022 04:56:13 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Necromancer https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/3/necromancer Hey there!

One of our guilty pleasures is watching ghost hunting shows on the travel channel. Maybe its the over the top reenactments and reactions that hook us, or maybe its the "ghosts"! The name for today's cocktail may be a bit unusual. Necromancer is defined as, a person who uses witchcraft or sorcery, especially to reanimate dead people or to foretell the future by communicating with them. So this might be the perfect drink to sip while watching The Dead Files. This cocktail was created by Mayur Subbarao for Louro Restaurant in New York’s West Village, and is a riff on the classic Corpse Reviver cocktail. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Lemon Peels

Spritz of Absinthe

For Drink
3/4 oz. Lillet Blanc
3/4 oz. Elderflower Liqueur
3/4 oz. Absinthe
3/4 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
Dash of Gin

 

You'll also need a Nick & Nora glass or a coup glass, shaker cup, strainer, atomizer/spray bottle for Absinthe.

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In your shaker cup add

    • 3/4 oz. Lillet Blanc

    • 3/4 oz. Elderflower Liqueur

    • 3/4 oz. Absinthe

    • 3/4 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice

    • Dash of Gin

    • Ice

  2. Shake for approximately 30 seconds

  3. Strain into glass

  4. Spray glass with Absinthe filled Atomizer

  5. Express lemon peel & enjoy

  6. Garnish with lemon Peel

  7. Enjoy!!

Mixology Monday - Necromancer

   Click to Play!


 

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“A bad conscience makes a very good ghost.”
― Hope Mirrlees
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) absinthe elderflower gin lillet blanc vermouth https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/3/necromancer Mon, 28 Mar 2022 15:19:50 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Netflix & Dill https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/3/netflix-dill Hey there!

Inspiration comes from many places. This week we were inspired by Ryan Reynolds and Ash Lewis (@professional_lush) to create our version of this dill infused gin cocktail. We recently watched Ryan's newest movie, The Adam Project on Netflix where he plays a time traveling fighter pilot... so we thought now would be a good time to break out his Aviation American Gin. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Small Sprig of Dill
Mini Clothespin (optional)


For Simple Syrup
1 Part Water
1 Part Granulated Sugar
2-4 Sprigs Fresh Dill

 

For Drink
2 oz. Aviation Gin
1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
1.25 oz. Dill Infused Simple Syrup*
~.25 cup Chopped Peeled Cucumber
4-6 Sprigs Fresh Dill
1 Egg White

 

You'll also need a coup glass, shaker cup ,strainer and small sauce pan.

 

 

Let's Make the Dill Infused Simple Syrup:

  1. Add to Sauce Pan: 
    • 1 Part Water
    • 1 Part Granulated Sugar
    • 2-4 Sprigs Fresh Dill
  2. Heat over medium-low heat until liquid is reduced by half (~15-20 mins.)

  3. Set aside to cool.

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1.  In your shaker cup add

    • Chopped Cucumber (~.25 cup)

    • Simple Syrup (1.25 oz.)

  2. Muddle well.

  3. Add Egg White & Lemon Juice (1 oz.) to shaker cup.

  4. Dry Shake for 30 sec. (shake vigorously without ice)

  5. Add remaining ingredients:

    •  Ice

    • Aviation Gin (2 oz.)

    • 1 Sprig Fresh Dill

  6. Vigorously shake an additional 20-30 sec.

  7. Strain into Coupe Glass

  8. Garnish with sprig of Fresh Dill

  9. Enjoy!!

 

Mixology Monday - Netflix and Dill   Click to Play!


 

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“When everything seems to be against you, remember that an airplane takes-off against the wind, not with it.”

- Henry Ford.

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cucumber dill gin https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/3/netflix-dill Mon, 21 Mar 2022 16:43:33 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Bananas Foster https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/3/bananas-foster Hey there!

We came across this Bananas Foster cocktail recipe on Just a Pinch and had to try! This decadence in a glass is perfect for after dinner... or maybe instead of! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 3-4 drinks, depending on size of your glass.  Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Candied Pecan Halves (see steps below)
Caramel Syrup
 

For Drink
4-6 Scoops vanilla or banana ice cream*
6 oz Rum (We used Ten to One)
2 oz Banana Liqueur
1-2 Bananas, cut in chunks
1 tbsp Brown Sugar
Cinnamon

You'll also need a martini glass and blender

 

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Let's Make the Garnish:

  1. Melt 1-2 tablespoons butter 
  2. Mix in 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  3. Add your pecan halves and stir to coat in glaze mixture.
  4. Set aside... (if you're extra like us, hit them with the kitchen torch a little before using.)


 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In your blender, add:
    • Ice Cream
    • Rum
    • Banana Liqueur
    • Banana Chunks
    • Few dashes of Cinnamon
    • Brown Sugar
  2. Blend well.
  3. Drizzle caramel syrup onto insides of martini glass.
  4. Pour your cocktail and garnish with pecan halves.
  5. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Bananas Foster  Click to Play!


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“I'm not a vegetarian! I'm a dessertarian!”
― Bill Watterson
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) banana bananas fosters black owned brands dessert dessert cocktail rum https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/3/bananas-foster Mon, 14 Mar 2022 22:54:59 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Empress Gin & Tonic https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/3/empress-gin-tonic Hey there!

Sometimes less is more. This week we are keeping it simple with a gin and tonic, however we decided to use Empress Gin which is handcrafted botanical gin made with a signature blend of black tea and butterfly pea blossom. The butterfly pea blossom gives the gin its beautiful indigo, purplish hue. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink!  Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Lime slices (We used key limes)

 

For Drink
2 oz. Empress Gin
2 oz. Tonic Water (or more if you like)

You'll also need ice and a rocks tumbler.

 

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In a rocks-tumbler glass add ice.
  2. Next pour in 2 oz. Gin followed by 2 oz. Tonic Water. 
  3. Give it a gentle stir. 
  4. Add your lime slice garnishes and optional dried pea flower blossoms.
  5. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Gin & Tonic Click to Play!

 


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“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication..."

-Leonardo da Vinci 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) butterfly pea flower empress gin g&t gin gin and tonic lime tonic https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/3/empress-gin-tonic Mon, 07 Mar 2022 15:12:30 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Plush Vodka Blueberry Smash https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/2/plush-vodka-blueberry-smash Hey There!

It's the last day of February and Black History Month and we haven't even scratched the surface of all the amazing Black Owned Brands out there. In the last two years we have uncovered many gems and we will continue to explore and share. Today we are sharing another original cocktail with Plush Vodka. You might remember this brand from our Sugar Plum Fairy Martini back in December. Plush Vodka is a 8x distilled, gluten free, American vodka and we chose their Plum flavor to pair with blueberries, rose water, mint and sage. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

Find Plush Vodka, near you! https://www.plushvodka.com/home

To find our other posts featuring black owned brands, click here: Recipes Featuring Black Owned Brands

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
3 Blueberries

1 Tendril of Mint Leaves


For Drink
2 oz. Plush Plum Vodka 
1/2 oz. Rosewater
1/2 oz. a Simple Syrup 
1 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
One Small Handful of Blueberries 
4-6 mint leaves, 
4-6 sage leaves

Ice


You will also need a Rocks Tumblers,  Muddler, Fine Mesh Strainer, Shakercup and Juicer. 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In Shaker Cup Add:
    • Blueberries
    • Lime Juice
    • Rosewater
    • Herbs
  2. Muddle well for 10 seconds or so
  3. Add remaining ingredients to shaker cup:
    • Ice
    • Simple Syrup
    • Blush Plum Vodka
  4. Shake vigorously 20-30 seconds
  5. Using your fine mesh strainer, double strain into your ice filled tumbler
  6. Garnish with fresh mint and blueberries
  7. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Plush Vodka Smash Press Play!     


 

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“Try to be a rainbow in someone's cloud.”
― Maya Angelou

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands blueberry mint sage smash smash cocktail vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/2/plush-vodka-blueberry-smash Mon, 28 Feb 2022 16:12:54 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Chocolate Old Fashioned https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/2/chocolate-old-fashioned Hey There!

We are still sharing Black Owned Brands for Black History Month and today's share is for Virginia Black Whiskey. Virginia Black is co founded by celebrity musician and actor, Drake and award winning spirits producer, Brent Hocking.  We decided to infuse this already smooth and easy to drink whiskey with cacao for an even more decadent experience. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

Find Virginia Black, near you! https://virginiablackwhiskey.com

To find our other posts featuring black owned brands, click here: Recipes Featuring Black Owned Brands

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Dark Chocolate Shavings
1 Orange Peel

 

For Cacao Whiskey Infusion (makes approx 2 servings)
6 ounces Virginia black whiskey (about half a bottle)
1 tablespoon Cacao Nibs
1 Orange Peel

 

For Drink
3 ounces cacao infused Virginia Black whiskey
1 ounce Grand Marnier
1/2 ounces simple syrup
3 to 5 dashes Cocoa Angostura Bitters

 

You will also need a rocks tumbler, bar spoon and large ice cube.

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Let's Make the Whiskey Infusion!

  1. In a glass jar add:
    • Orange Peel
    • Cacao Nibs (1 tbsp)
    • Virginia Black Whiskey (6 oz.)
  2. Cover and let sit for 24-36 hours (un-refrigerated)
  3. Strain out solids & set aside

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your rocks tumbler add:
    • Whiskey (3 oz.)
    • Grand Marnier (1 oz.)
    • Simple Syrup (1/2 oz.)
    • Bitters (3-5 dashes)
    • Ice Cube
  2. Stir gently
  3. Express orange peel and add as garnish
  4. Top with shaved dark chocolate
  5. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Chocolate Old Fashioned
 Press Play!    


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“Dreams are lovely but they are just dreams. Fleeting, ephemeral, pretty. But dreams do not come true just because you dream them. It’s hard work that makes things happen. It’s hard work that creates change.”

– Shonda Rhimes


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands bourbon cointreau old fashioned virginia black whiskey https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/2/chocolate-old-fashioned Mon, 21 Feb 2022 19:19:32 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - HH Bespoke Vodka Rose Water Martini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/2/rose-water-martini Hey There,

We are sharing Black Owned Brands for Black History Month AND its Valentine's day!! We decided to pair HH Bespoke Vodka with Rose Water for a martini perfect for sipping with your honey, your friends or by yourself! Harlem Haberdashery (HH) is rich in cultural history and draws inspiration from the Harlem Renaissance. Their vodka is grain based and handmade in small batches with a light, clean taste.  In addition to Vodka, Rum and Gin launched in 2018, HH is also an award winning boutique house. We hope you give them a try! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

Find HH Bespoke Spirits, near you! https://hhbespokespirits.com/locator or order online! https://hhbespokespirits.com/buy-now

To find our other posts featuring black owned brands, click here: Recipes Featuring Black Owned Brands

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Lemon Peel

 

For Drink
1.5 oz. HH Bespoke Vodka
1.5 oz. White Grape Juice
.5 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
.25 oz. Simple Syrup
5 ml. (~.25 oz.) Rose Water
Ice

You will also need,1 Martini Glass, Shaker cup and Hawthorne Strainer.
 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add all ingredients

    • Vodka

    • White Grape Juice

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice

    • Simple Syrup

    • Rose Water

  2. Shake vigorously 20-30 seconds

  3. Strain into martini glass

  4. Garnish with lemon peel

  5. Enjoy! Happy Valentine's Day!

Mixology Monday - Rose Water Martini

   Press Play!


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“You are your best thing.”

Toni Morrison


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands harlem haberdashery martini valentine's day vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/2/rose-water-martini Mon, 14 Feb 2022 13:30:48 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Shinju and Nectarine Nectar https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/2/nectarine-nectar Hey There,

February is here and that means we will be celebrating and sharing black owned brands for Black History Month. We are kicking things off with Shinju, a Japanese Whiskey. Shinju is “double distilled, with wafts of honey, orange and vanilla, accompanied by hints of herbaceous notes and light oak." This is absolutely one of our favorite whiskeys to sip and also to gift. It is so smooth and delicate-- we know you will enjoy. We chose to pair this whiskey with nectarines, rosemary and thyme.  We hope you give this a try! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  

Find Shinju, near you! https://www.shinjuwhisky.com/

To find our other posts featuring black owned brands, click here: Recipes Featuring Black Owned Brands

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Sprig of Thyme

 

For Nectarine Herb Simple Syrup
1 cup Sugar
1 cup Water
2 Nectarines (chopped)
2 - 3 Sprigs of Thyme
2 - 3 Sprigs of Rosemary

 

For Drink
1.5 oz. Shinju Whiskey
0.5 oz. Aperol
0.5 oz. Sweet Vermouth
0.25 oz. Nectarine Herb Simple Syrup (steps below)
1-2 tsp. Cooked Nectarine & Herb Solids (from making simple syrup)

 

You will also need,1 Whiskey Glass or Tumbler, Shaker cup (or mixing glass), Muddler, bar spoon, Hawthorne Strainer, large saucepan, colander, and ice.
 

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Let's Make the Simple Syrup!

  1. Add chopped nectarines, 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water and few sprigs of rosemary and thyme to a pot over medium low heat until liquid is reduced by about half. (~15-20 mins) 

  2. Strain simple syrup liquid & let cool to room temperature.

  3. Set the cooked herb nectarine solids aside for cocktail.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup or  mixing glass add:

    • 1-2 teaspoons of cooked nectarines (from the simple syrup)

    • A few sprigs of thyme

    • Aperol (.5 oz.)

  2. Muddle

  3. Add remaining ingredients:

    • Ice 

    • Vermouth (.5 oz.)

    • Nectarine and Herb Simple Syrup (.25 oz.)

    • Shinju Whiskey (1.5 oz.)

  4. Stir gently for about 20 to 30 seconds

  5. Strain into glass, garnish with a sprig of thyme

  6. Enjoy!

   Mixology Monday -ShinJu Nectarine  Press Play!


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“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.”
—Dr. Mae Jemison, first African-American female astronaut


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands fruit japanese whiskey nectarine shinju whiskey https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/2/nectarine-nectar Mon, 07 Feb 2022 19:26:46 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Blood Orange Mint and Basil Smash https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/1/blood-orange-mint-and-basil-smash Hey There!

Cooler temperatures mean its blood orange season. Blood oranges are grown typically in Mediterranean climates and also in Florida and California in the US then harvested in winter. You should be able to locate them near you between December and April. We definitely wanted to take advantage of this juicy tart fruit in today's cocktail. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Blood Orange Wedge/Slice

1 Bunch of Mint Leaves


For Drink
1.5 ounce Fresh Squeezed Blood Orange Juice
3 to 4 Mint Leaves
2 to 3 Basil Leaves
1/2 ounce Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
1 ounce Grenadine,
2 ounces Scotch Whiskey
2 to 3 dashes Underberg German bitters

Ice

 


 You will also need a Rocks Tumblers,  Muddler, Fine Mesh Strainer, Hawthorne Strainer, Shakercup and Juicer. We used our Boston Shaker kit from VinoBravo, Use Nicole10 for a discount.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In Shaker Cup Add:
    • Mint Leaves
    • Basil Leaves
    • Grenadine
    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice 
  2. Muddle gently for 10 seconds or so
  3. Add remaining ingredients to Mixing  Glass:
    • Ice
    • Blood Orange Juice 
    • 2-3 Dashes of Bitters
    • Scotch Whiskey  
  4. Shake vigorously 20-30 seconds
  5. Using your fine mesh strainer and hawthorne strainer, strain into your ice filler tumbler.
  6. Garnish with fresh mint and blood orange  slice.
  7. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Blood Orange Whiskey Smash Press Play!     


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“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.”
― John Steinbeck
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) basil blood orange fruit mint scotch smash smash cocktail whiskey cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/1/blood-orange-mint-and-basil-smash Mon, 31 Jan 2022 17:17:12 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Negroni Sbagliato https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/1/negroni-sbagliato Hey There!

This week's cocktail is a "wrong Negroni". "The Negroni Sbagliato was invented by bartender Mirko Stocchetto in Milan in 1972. It's said that while making the classic Negroni, Mirko accidentally grabbed a bottle of prosecco instead of gin." Oops!  "Sbagliato"  is Italian for "wrong,"  or "mistaken." We hope you enjoy this happy mistake! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Orange Peel

For Drink
1 oz. Prosecco (or more)
1 oz. Sweet Vermouth
1 oz. Campari

Ice

You will also need a rocks tumbler or old fashioned glass, peeler, and a bar spoon.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your tumbler, add: 

    • Sweet Vermouth (1 oz.)

    • Campari (1 oz.)

  2. Add your Ice.

  3. Stir gently.

  4. Top with Prosecco.

  5. Garnish with your orange peel.

  6. Sip slow and Enjoy!

 

       

MIXOLOGY MONDAY - NEGRONI SBAGLIATO
Press Play!  


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Naturally, I'm misanthropic. But the Negronis are helping considerably.

-Anthony Bourdain

 

 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) apéritif beverage brunch gin negroni prosecco Sbagliato https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/1/negroni-sbagliato Mon, 24 Jan 2022 17:12:13 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Matcha Mojito Mocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/1/matcha-mojito-mocktail Hey There,

Continuing the theme of cocktails sans alcohol for Dry January, here's our twist on the classic mojito. A Matcha Mojito Mocktail.... or Fauxjito if you will. This light and refreshing drink is made with muddled mint and cucumber topped with matcha green tea and club soda. We hope you enjoy! If you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Mint Leaves
Cucumber Ribbon

 

For Drink
2 tablespoons sugar (we used sugar in the raw)
Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (aproximately1/2 oz. to 1 oz.)

Chopped cucumber (3-4 quarter inch slices) 
3 oz.  Matcha Green Tea (Brewed and Chilled)
1/4 tsp grated ginger
6-8 Mint Leaves
Club soda
Ice

You will also need a muddler, and a tumbler or collins glass.

 

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Let's Make the Mocktail:

  1. First brew your matcha tea in hot water and set aside to chill.
  2. When your matcha is ready and chilled, grab your collins or tumbler and add:
    • Mint
    • Sugar
    • Ginger
    • Cucumber
    • Lime Juice
  3. Gently Muddle.
  4. Add Ice.
  5. Add 3 oz. of your brewed matcha tea
  6. Top with Club Soda
  7. Garnish with Cucumber ribbon and small bunch of mint leaves.
  8. Enjoy!!

Mixology Monday - Matcha Mojito Mocktail Press Play!


 

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"You don’t have to see the whole staircase. Just take the first step."

– Martin Luther King

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cucumber dry january fauxjito fruit green lime low abv matcha mocktail mojito monday tea virgin https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/1/matcha-mojito-mocktail Mon, 17 Jan 2022 16:44:46 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Chile Lime Pineapple Mocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/1/chile-lime-pineapple-mocktail Hey Hey,

Many decide to go dry in January after indulging over the holidays. If you happen to be sampling sobriety, this mocktail recipe is for you! More than just pineapple juice, this packs a kick and drinks like a cocktail without any alcohol. We came across this recipe on Bon Appetite and knew we had to give it a try. We combined Chiles, lime zest, peppercorns sugar and salt with pineapple juice and topped with club soda. This is soooo good. Seriously! We hope you enjoy! If you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 10-12 drinks. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Pineapple Wedges
Whole and Crushed Chiles

 

For Drink
1 tablespoon pink peppercorns
1 lime
2-3 dried chiles de árbol
3 cups fresh pineapple juice
1/2 cup sugar
Pinch of kosher salt
Club soda
Ice

You will also need a mason jar that hold at least 3.5 cups, bar spoon, fine mesh strainer, and tumblers or collins glasses.

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Let's Make the Chile Lime Infused Juice:

  1. Make this part 8-12 hours in advance.
  2. Remove peel from lime in wide strips with a peeler, leaving white pith behind.
  3. In your mason jar add:
    • Lime Peel
    • Pink Peppercorns (1 tbsp)
    • Whole dried chiles de árbol (2-3)
    • Pineapple juice (3 cups)
    • Sugar (1/2 cup)
    • Pinch of Salt 
  4. Stir until most of sugar is dissolved.
  5. Place lid on jar and chill in refrigerator for 8–12 hours.
     

 

Let's Make the Mocktail:

  1. Once your infused juice is ready, strain out the solids and discard using fine mesh strainer.
  2. In your ice filled tumblers or collins glasses add your infused juice and top with club soda. You can start with a ratio of 1:4 juice to club soda. You can add more juice for a sweeter taste. 
  3. Garnish with pineapple or lime wedge along with whole and crushed chiles.
  4. Enjoy!!

 

Mixology Monday - Chile Lime Pineapple Mocktail Press Play!


 

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"Live less out of habit and more out of intent."

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) chile dry january fruit lime low abv mocktail monday pineapple virgin https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/1/chile-lime-pineapple-mocktail Mon, 10 Jan 2022 15:32:04 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Grapefruit Pomegranate Whiskey Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/1/grapefruit-pomegranate-whiskey-sour Hey Hey!

It's the first Monday after a holiday and we know you could use a drink. Let's make it a good one with this grapefruit pomegranate whiskey sour! We received a gift of a bottle of Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve Scotch Whiskey this Christmas and had to crack it open.  We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1/4 Wedge of Grapefruit
Several Pomegranate Arils

 

For Pomegranate Simple Syrup
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
1/2 tsp. Cardamom
1 handful Pomegranate Arils



For Drink
1.5 oz. Fresh Squeezed Grapefruit Juice
1 egg white
1.5 oz. Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve Scotch Whiskey
1 oz. Pomegranate Simple Syrup

Ice

You will also need a shakercup, bar spoon, hawthorne strainer, fine mesh strainer, 1 rocks tumbler, and a medium saucepan.

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Let's Make the Pomegranate Simple Syrup!

  1. In small pot or saucepan add all ingredients:

    • 1 cup granulated sugar

    • 1 cup water

    • 1/2 tsp. Cardamom

    • 1 handful Pomegranate Arils

  2. Cook on Medium heat for 12-15 min. Stirring periodically until liquid is reduced by 1/3. 

  3. Strain out syrup and let cool before use.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup, add:

    • Egg white from 1 egg

    • Grapefruit Juice (1.5 oz.)

  2. Dry shake (without ice)vigorously 20-30 seconds.

  3. Add remaining ingredients:

    • Ice

    • Whiskey (1.5 oz.)

    • Simple Syrup (1 oz.)

  4. Shake again 20-30 seconds.

  5. Strain into your rocks tumbler.

  6. Garnish with grapefruit and pomegranate arils.

  7. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Grapefruit Pom Wishkey Sour Press Play!       



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“Never cry over spilt milk. It could’ve been whiskey.” 

– Maverick


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon grapefruit pomegranate scotch whiskey cocktail whiskey sour whisky https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2022/1/grapefruit-pomegranate-whiskey-sour Mon, 03 Jan 2022 17:38:37 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - French 75 https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/12/french-75 Hey There,

As we approach New Year's Eve, we wanted to share something a little bubbly perfecting for toasting. The French 75, according to liquor.com,  "is named for the fast-firing 75 millimeter field gun that was utilized by the French during World War One. Consisting of gin, fresh lemon juice, sugar and Champagne, the drink is a lot friendlier than the name implies." We hope you enjoy! If you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Lemon Peel Spiral


 

For Drink
1 oz. Aviation Gin
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
1/2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
~3 oz. Champagne/Sparkling Wine

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1. To your shaker cup, add:
    • Ice
    • Gin (1 oz.)
    • Simple Syrup (.5 oz.)
    • Lemon Juice (.5 oz.)
  2. Shake vigorously 20 seconds until chilled.
  3. Pour into your champagne flute and top with champagne (or sparkling wine) (approx 3 oz.).
  4. Garnish with Lemon Peel and enjoy.

Mixology Monday - French 75 Press Play!


 

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“I only drink champagne on two occasions, when I am in love and when I am not.”

– Coco Chanel
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bubbly champagne french 75 gin https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/12/french-75 Mon, 27 Dec 2021 19:47:06 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Bah Humbug Sugar Plum Martini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/12/bah-humbug-sugar-plum-martini Hey Hey,

This one is for all the Grinches and Scrooges.... all of us who are not quite in the holiday spirit and/or might find ourselves on Santa's naughty list. They say if you receive a lump of coal for Christmas its because you're being punished, let me be the first to start a petition to Santa to swap out that lump of coal, for a swirl of coal in this cocktail. This cocktail has the look and gritty texture of coal thanks to activated charcoal and luster dust but the flavor of sugar plum fairies dancing around on your tongue. We hope you enjoy! If you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Drink
1.5 oz. Plum Infused Vodka
0.5 oz. Dry Vermouth
0.25 oz. Simple Syrup
0.5 oz. Grenadine
0.5  oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
1 (260 mg.) Capsule Activated Charcoal
50 mg. Edible Pearl Lustre Dust

You'll also need, a mixing glass, bar spoon, hawthorne strainer and a coup or martini glass.

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In your mixing glass, add:
    • Ice
    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (1/2 oz.)
    • Simple Syrup (1/4 oz.)
    • Grenadine (1/2 oz.)
    • Dry Vermouth (1/2 oz.)
    • Plum Infused Vodka (1.5 oz.) (We used Plush
  2. Stir in Activated Charcoal & Luster Dust
  3. Strain into your coup/martini glass
  4. Enjoy!!

Mixology Monday - Bah Humbug

Press Play!


 

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"A lovely thing about Christmas is that it’s compulsory, like a thunderstorm, and we all go through it together.”

–Garrison Keillor


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands lump of coal martini plum plum vodka plush sugar plum vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/12/bah-humbug-sugar-plum-martini Mon, 20 Dec 2021 20:57:32 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Lunar Azure https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/12/lunar-azure Hey there!

 If you are looking for something sweet, perhaps something to serve at your next holiday party, then this is one for you. We combine Hendricks Lunar Gin with Peach Schnapps, Blue Curacao and Vermouth for a orange-y, peach-y treat. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages
 

This makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Drink
1/4 oz. Hendricks Lunar Gin
1/2 oz. Dry Vermouth
1/4 oz. Peach Schnapps 
1 oz. Blue Curacao
1 Orange Peel for Zest
Ice

You will also need, a mixing glass, a bar spoon and 2 coup glasses. 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your mixing glass add:
    • Ice
    • Gin (1/4 oz.)
    • Dry Vermouth (1/2 oz.)
    • Peach Schnapps (1/4oz.)
    • Blue Curacao (1oz.)
  2. Stir
  3. Pour into your coup glass.
  4. Zest with orange peel
  5. Enjoy

 

Mixology Monday - Lunar Azure

Press Play!     


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"Do not allow children to mix drinks. It is unseemly and they use too much vermouth."

– Steve Allen
 

 

 


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) blue curacao gin orange peach schnapps https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/12/lunar-azure Mon, 13 Dec 2021 05:33:30 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Peppermint Schnapps Hot Cocoa https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/12/peppermint-schnapps-hot-cocoa Hey there!

Frank and I are trying to get ourselves in the holiday spirit and off Santa's naughty list. We found ourselves thinking about last year's boozy hot chocolate (click here) and wanted to remix it! We purchased some peppermint schnapps which came in a scratch and sniff bottle (how fun!?) to make in our opinion the best flavor combo ever... mint and chocolate!  We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages
 

This makes 2-4 drinks (depending on size of your mugs). Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Drink
1 Quart Milk
6 oz. bittersweet or semisweet chocolate
1.5 oz. Peppermint Schnapps (per serving)

For Garnish
Have fun with this.
Chocolate and peppermint sticks
Marshmallows (we skewered ours with a sprig of rosemary)

Sprinkles

 

You will also need, 1 medium-large sauce pans, large stirring spoon and  heat safe mugs. 

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Heat 1 cup of  milk in a medium saucepan over low heat.
  2. Add chocolate, stirring constantly, until melted.
  3. When the chocolate has melted, increase heat to medium and add the remainder of the milk while whisking rapidly. Do not allow to boil.
  4. In your favorite mug, add 1.5 oz of peppermint schnapps.
  5. Top with your freshly made hot cocoa.
  6. Garnish with your peppermint sticks, marshmallows and sprinkles.
  7. Find a cozy blanket to curl up in and enjoy!!

 

Mixology Monday- Peppermint Schnapps Hot Cocoa Press Play!     


 

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“Dear Santa, I’ve been good all year.  Most of the time. Once in awhile. Nevermind, I’ll buy my own stuff.”

 


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) boozy hot cocoa hot chocolate hot cocktail peppermint schnapps https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/12/peppermint-schnapps-hot-cocoa Mon, 06 Dec 2021 20:42:51 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Wild Orange Hot Toddy https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/11/wild-orange-hot-toddy Hey There,

It's getting chilly here in the northeast so we thought we would revisit a cocktail we did way back when we started Mixology Monday! The grandfather of hot drinks (according to liquor.com)... The Hot Toddy! Hot Toddies are often made with whiskey but almost any spirit can be made into a hot toddy if you try hard enough. There are several stories laying claim to the Hot Toddy, and many cultures around the world have their own version of this steamy cocktail. One story points to an Irish physician Robert Bentley Todd, who prescribed a hot drink of brandy, white cinnamon, sugar syrup and water to cure illnesses. Yes please! You can use any mug you'd like; if you use a glass mug be sure its rated for hot temperatures. Safety first! :)  We hope you enjoy! If you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Lemon Slice
1 Orange Slice (we dehydrated ours)
Several Whole Cloves

 

For Drink
1.5 oz. Cognac Brandy
.5 oz. Cointreau
Freshly Brewed Tea (we used Wild Sweet Orange Tea from Tazo)
Honey 

 

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Let's Start the Garnish:

  1. Actually let's put the tea kettle on first.
  2. Slice your lemon and orange and set aside. If you choose to dehydrate your orange slices you will need to begin that process way in advance. In a pinch you can use your air fryer on the lowest setting for 20-30 minutes.
  3. Set aside your cloves.

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1. Brew your tea of choice, we used Wild Sweet Orange by Tazo (link here)
  2. In your heat safe mug, add honey to taste
  3. Add 1.5 ounce Cognac Brandy
  4. Add.5 ounce Cointreau
  5. Add your tea
  6. Garnish with both orange slice, lemon slice and whole cloves.
  7. Find someplace cozy to sit and sip.
  8. Enjoy!!

 

Mixology Monday - Wild Orange Hot Toddy Press Play!


 

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“The only two things in life guaranteed to bring joy are both liquid:
fresh dark coffee in the morning or fragrant cognac in the evening.
(In between, you're on your own.)”

― Charles Joseph Albert
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) brandy cognac honey hot hot toddy tea toddy https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/11/wild-orange-hot-toddy Mon, 29 Nov 2021 21:43:37 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Bourbon & Sage https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/11/bourbon-sage Hey There!

Sometimes, you just want to sip on a little whiskey. Today's simple recipe makes that straight whiskey a little more palatable. The measurements below are technically for a double, so feel free to adjust as you see fit. For those celebrating, we wish you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 strong drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Sage Leaf

 

For Honey Sage Simple Syrup
1/2 Cup Local Honey
10 Sage Leaves
1 Cup Water


For Drink
3 oz. Bourbon Whiskey (we used Basil Hayden's Bourbon)
3 tbsp. Honey Sage Simple Syrup (instructions below)
Orange Peel
Ice ( cubed and one large block/sphere)
 

You will also need a mixing glass, bar spoon, hawthorne strainer, 1 rocks tumbler, and a medium saucepan.

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Let's Make the Honey Sage Simple Syrup!

  1. In small pot or saucepan add all ingredients:

    • 1/2 Cup Local Honey

    • 10 Sage Leaves

    • 1 Cup Water

  2. Cook on Medium heat; bring to a boil. 

  3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 2-3 minutes.

  4. Remove from heat, strain out sage leaves and set aside to chill.


 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your mixing glass, add:

    • Ice

    • Bourbon Whiskey (3 oz.)

    • Honey Sage Simple Syrup (3 tbsp.)

  2. Stir gently.

  3. Add ice sphere/block to tumbler and pour your cocktail.

  4. Twist orange peel over glass to release oils

  5. Garnish with sage leaf.

  6. Sip slow. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Bourbon & Sage Press Play!




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"You don’t really need a reason to pour yourself a glass of whiskey."

-unknown

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon sage whiskey whiskey cocktail whisky https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/11/bourbon-sage Mon, 22 Nov 2021 19:07:44 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Vodka Cranberry Martini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/11/vodka-cranberry-martini Hey There!

This week we wanted to share a cocktail perfect for your Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving dinners. A simple martini but with a sweet addition. We made a simple syrup of cranberries and fresh rosemary herbs which not only made a great cocktail, but also had the house smelling like the holidays. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This recipe makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
3 Fresh Cranberries


For Drink
1 1/4 oz. Cranberry Simple Syrup (details below)
1 1/4 oz. Vodka
1/2 oz. Sweet Vermouth
1/2 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
1/2 oz. Grand Marnier
Ice

For Simple Syrup
1 cup Sugar
2 cups Water
1 cup Fresh Cranberries
1-2 Sprigs Fresh Rosemary
Orange Peel

 

You will also need a martini glass, cocktail pick, shaker cup, small pot and spoon.

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Let's Make the Simple Syrup!

  1. In small pot over low-medium heat, add

    • 1 cup of sugar

    • 2 cups water

    • 1 cup fresh cranberries

    • 1-2 sprigs of rosemary

    • Orange peel

  2. Stir and let simmer approximately 12-15 mins

  3. Remove from heat, strain, and allow to cool.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add:

    • Ice

    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (1/2 oz.)

    • Sweet Vermouth (1/2 oz.)

    • Grand Marnier (1/2 oz.)

    • Vodka (1 1/4 oz.)

    • Cranberry Simple Syrup (1 1/4 oz.)

  2. Shake for 30 seconds or so until chilled.

  3. Strain into your martini glass.

  4. Garnish with cocktail pick of fresh cranberries

  5. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Vodka Cranberry Martini

Press Play!



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“If life gives you lemons, you should make lemonade. And try to find somebody who’s life gives them vodka, and have a party.”
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cranberry martini thanksgiving vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/11/vodka-cranberry-martini Mon, 15 Nov 2021 16:10:03 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Cable Car https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/11/cable-car Hey There!

The stars have aligned and Mixology Monday falls on Frank and I's 2nd wedding anniversary. November 8th, 2019 we had a pop up elopement at city hall in San Francisco (see our highlight reel here). In honor of the city where we promised each other forever, we're sharing a modern classic, the Cable Car cocktail. Named after the Golden Gate City's historic and iconic transportation, the Cable Car is a rift on the Side Car and swaps cognac for rum. We also opted to include a few dashes of fee foam, a non egg alternative to creating a beautiful foam on the tops of cocktails. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Orange Peel Spirals 
Fresh Ground Cinnamon


For Drink
3 oz. Spiced Rum
1.5 oz. Orange Curacao
2 oz. Simple Syrup
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
4 Dashes Fee Foam (this is an egg white substitution)
Ice

You will also need 2 coupe glasses, peeler, and a shaker cup.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In shaker cup, add all ingredients: 

    • Ice

    • Rum (3 oz.)

    • Orange Curacao (1.5 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (2 oz.)

    • Simple Syrup (2 oz.)

    • Fee Foam (optional non egg alternative to create a foamy head on cocktails) (4 dashes)

  2. Shake Well.

  3. Pour evenly between both coup glasses

  4. Garnish with ground cinnamon and orange peel spirals.

  5. Sip Slow and Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Cable Car Press Play!  

 


 

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“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”
― Lao Tzu
 

xoxo

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cable car cocktail orange curacao rum rum cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/11/cable-car Mon, 08 Nov 2021 16:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Flaming Apple Cider Margarita https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/11/flaming-apple-cider-margarita Hey There!

Happy November 1st! Hard to believe we are coming to the close of 2021 already! I know we have just celebrated Halloween but we are not ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas just yet! So, let's talk about something else! Today through tomorrow, November 2nd, signifies the celebration, Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead).  The focus during this time is to show love, respect and remembrance for friends and family who have been lost. Dia De Los Muertos is celebrated in many Latin countries however it originated in Mexico so we decided to share another Mexican staple, the margarita! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Half Lime Squeezed/Hollowed Out
1 Sugar Cube
Approximately 1/4 oz. 151 high proof alcohol
1 tsp. Cinnamon
Lime Juice & Cinnamon Sugar Mixture to Rim Glass


For Drink
1.5 oz. Reposado Tequila
1 oz. Apple Cider (We used fresh honey crisp apple cider)
3/4 oz. Grand Marnier
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
1 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (juice from 1 lime)
Ice

 

You will also need a shaker cup, tumbler or margarita glass and 2 small plates to help rim your glass. Additionally for the optional flaming garnish, you will need a metal tea strainer or small sieve.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Use about 1/2 ounce of lime juice and cinnamon sugar mixture to rim your glass. Set aside.

  2. In your shaker cup, add:

    • Ice

    • Grand Marnier (3/4 oz.)

    • Reposado Tequila (1 1/2 oz.)

    • Apple Cider (1 oz.)

    • Simple Syrup (1/2 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (1 oz.)

  3. Shake Well

  4. Pour cocktail into your cinnamon sugar rimmed glass over ice.

  5. Optional Garnish: Add hollowed out lime half on top with sugar cube placed in middle. Pour 151 high proof rum into lime half without overflowing. CAREFULLY light rum and dust with a little cinnamon.

  6. Extinguish and Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Flaming Margarita   Press Play!       



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"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."

-Richard Puz

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) day of the dead flaming garnish margarita mexico tequila tequila cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/11/flaming-apple-cider-margarita Mon, 01 Nov 2021 17:08:09 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Candy Corn Vodka Cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/10/candy-corn-vodka-cocktail Hey There Ghouls & Boys!

Today is the last Monday before Halloween so we had to share a recipe incorporating the day! We chose to focus on the candy and derived inspiration from probably the most divisive one. Candy corn. It's no secret that many (including myself) hate candy corn. Stephanie Hayes says, "It tastes like wax and is shaped like tears." and I couldn't agree more.  Fortunately this drink tastes nothing like the candy... kinda like how the candy tastes nothing like corn. We took some liberties and used Vido Vodka, an orange liqueur and aperol for a spicy, orangey, yummy sip. No matter what side of the candy corn fence you stand, we hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

Find Vido Vodka Near You: https://shop.drinkvido.com/Find-our-Vodka
 

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Nutmeg
Orange Zest


For Drink
4 oz. VIDO Premium Vodka

Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (1 lemon)
2 oz.  Simple Syrup 
2 Egg Whites 
2 oz. Orangecello Liqueur

1 oz. Aperol
1/8 tsp Cardamom 
Ice 

You will also need a shaker cup, 2 flutes (glasses), and a hawthorne strainer

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Let's Make the Drink!

Note: If you actually LIKE candy corn, you can infuse your vodka by soaking the candy (in a separate jar) for at least 4 hours or even overnight. If you use the infused vodka you may want to skip adding the simple syrup in the steps below.

  1. In your shaker cup, add:

    • Juice from one Lemon

    • Egg Whites from 2 eggs

    • Few dashes of Cardamom (1/8 tsp.)

  2. Dry Shake Vigorously (45 seconds or so to 'cook' the egg and create a nice foam)

  3. Add to your shaker cup:

    • Ice

    • VIDO Premium Vodka (4 oz.)

    • Orangecello Liqueur (2 oz.)

    • Simple Syrup (2 oz.)

  4. Shake vigorously again (30 seconds or so).

  5. Strain evenly between your two flutes, topping with foam (may need to use a spoon).

  6. Using a Barspoon to break the surface of the foam, gently pour in your Aperol (approx 1/2 oz. for each glass)

  7. Top with Nutmeg and Orange Zest

  8. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Candy Corn Cocktail Press Play!       



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"May your candy supply last you well into the Christmas season."

 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) candy corn halloween halloween cocktail martini vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/10/candy-corn-vodka-cocktail Mon, 25 Oct 2021 19:05:01 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Candy Apple Martini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/10/candy-apple-martini Hey There!

We have cannonballed straight into autumn and we wanted to capture all of the traditional flavors of the season. Next up is candy apples! We were gifted a bottle of Vido Vodka and decided to pair it with apple cider and a caramel simple syrup and we're happy with the outcome! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

Find Vido Vodka Near You: https://shop.drinkvido.com/Find-our-Vodka
 

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

CAT-IMG_6507CAT-IMG_6507                 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Apple Slices
Optional: Use a candy apple kit and coat the slices with mixture.

 

For Caramel Simple Syrup
1/3 Cup Caramel Melts
1/3 Cup Granulated Sugar
1/3 Cup Water

1/2 Vanilla Bean (Split Open)
1/4 Cup Salted Carmel Syrup 


For Drink
2 oz. VIDO Premium Vodka

1/2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
1 oz. Caramel Simple Syrup (Instructions Below!)
1 oz. Apple Liqueur (Berentzen)
4 oz. Apple Cider

Ice 

You will also need a shaker cup, 2 martini glasses, along with a medium saucepan for syrup.

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Let's Make the Caramel Simple Syrup!

  1. In small pot or saucepan add all ingredients:

    • 1/3 Cup Caramel Melts

    • 1/3 Cup Granulated Sugar

    • 1/3 Cup Water

    • 1/2 Vanilla Bean (Split Open)

    • 1/4 Cup Salted Carmel Syrup 

  2. Cook on Medium heat for 7-10 min. Stirring periodically. 

  3. Strain and Set aside to cool.


 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup, add:

    • Ice

    • VIDO Premium Vodka (2 oz.)

    • Apple Liquor (Berentzen) (1 oz.)

    • Apple Cider (4 oz.)

    • Carmel Simple Syrup (1 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (1/2 oz.)

  2. Shake Well

  3. Pour evenly between your martini glasses

  4. Garnish with apple slices.

  5. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Candy Apple Tini

Press Play!       




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"The heat of autumn is different from the heat of summer. One ripens the apples, the other turns them to cider."

– Jane Hirshfield

 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) apple apple cider martini vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/10/candy-apple-martini Mon, 18 Oct 2021 17:47:14 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Pumpkin Pie Whiskey Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/10/pumpkin-pie-whiskey-sour Hey There!

Tis the season for all things spooky and pumpkin spice related so we're hopping onboard with this pumpkin pie whiskey sour. Our pumpkin pie simple syrup is far from basic and is full of flavor... as a bonus the left over pumpkin pulp is an amazing pumpkin jam! So actually this is like 3 recipes for the price of 1!! You're welcome! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

PSB-IMG_6254PSB-IMG_6254                

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Cinnamon Stick
1-2 Sprigs of Thyme

 

For Pumpkin Pie Simple Syrup
1/3 Cup Canned Pumpkin
2/3 Cup Granulated Sugar
1 Cup Water
1/4 tsp. Ground Cinnamon
1/4 tsp. Ground Ginger
1/2 tsp. Ground Clove
1 tsp. Ground Nutmeg
1 Fresh Orange Peel



For Drink
2 oz. Bourbon Whiskey (we used Basil Hayden's Bourbon)
1/4 oz. Lemon Juice
1 1/2 oz. Pumpkin Pie Syrup (Instructions Below!)

Ice (we made a large sphere using this mold)
 

You will also need a mixing glass, bar spoon, fine mesh strainer, 1 rocks tumbler, and a medium saucepan.

 

Let's Make the Pumpkin Pie Simple Syrup!

  1. In small pot or saucepan add all ingredients:

    • 1/3 Cup Canned Pumpkin

    • 2/3 Cup Granulated Sugar

    • 1 Cup Water

    • 1/4 tsp. Ground Cinnamon

    • 1/4 tsp. Ground Ginger

    • 1/2 tsp. Ground Clove

    • 1 tsp. Ground Nutmeg

    • 1 Fresh Orange Peel

  2. Cook on Medium heat for 7-10 min. Stirring periodically. (Your home will smell amazing!)

  3. Strain with fine filter separating the sold pumpkin paste from the liquid.

  4. Set aside the paste for use as a sweet pumpkin pie jam. (so good!)

  5. Place the strained liquid back over medium heat and reduce by 1/3. (~4-7 mins.)

  6. Let syrup cool before use.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your mixing glass, add:

    • Bourbon

    • Lemon Juice

    • Pumpkin Pie Simple Syrup

  2. Stir gently.

  3. Add ice sphere/block to tumbler and pour your cocktail.

  4. Garnish with cinnamon and thyme.

  5. Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Smash Press Play!       



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"I can smell autumn dancing in the breeze. The sweet chill of pumpkin, and crisp sunburnt leaves."

– Ann Drake


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon pumpkin pumpkin spice whiskey cocktail whiskey sour whisky https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/10/pumpkin-pie-whiskey-sour Mon, 11 Oct 2021 16:35:09 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Boulevardier https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/10/boulevardier Hey There!

This week we are sharing a variation of the Negroni which swaps gin for bourbon and is called a Boulevardier. The Boulevardier hails from the 1920s, named by American born writer, Erskine Gwynne, who founded a monthly magazine in Paris by the same name.  To quote Paul Clarke from Serious Eats,  "This isn't a Negroni. It is, however, the Negroni's long-lost autumnal cousin." We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

BO-IMG_6110BO-IMG_6110        

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Orange Peels or 2 Bourbon Cherries 


For Drink
2.5 oz. Bourbon
2 oz. Vermouth (Sweet)
2 oz. Campari

Ice

You will also need 2 coupe glasses if serving straight up, or 2 rocks tumblers, peeler, a mixing glass, strainer and a bar spoon.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In mixing glass, add: 

    • Ice

    • Bourbon (2.5 oz.)

    • Vermouth (2 oz.)

    • Campari (2 oz.)

  2. Stir gently until chilled.

  3. If serving straight up (chilled, without ice) Strain and pour mixture evenly between both coup glasses.

  4. If serving on the rocks (with ice), fill your rocks tumbler with ice and continue with previous step.

  5. Twist orange peel over glass.

  6. Garnish with orange peel or bourbon cherry. 

  7. Sip slow and Enjoy!

 

Mixology Monday - Boulevardier Press Play!  


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"Whiskey is by far the most popular of all remedies that won't cure a cold."

-Jerry Vale

 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) apéritif boulevardier bourbon brunch campari negroni vermouth https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/10/boulevardier Mon, 04 Oct 2021 22:07:09 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Smoky Bourbon Peach Cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/9/smoky-bourbon-peach-cocktail Hey Hey!

Here in NJ we are coming to the end of peach season and we are officially in autumn. We were inspired by our recent trip to Savannah, Georgia and we wanted to share one more peach cocktail for the road. Made with Bourbon, fresh herbs and a peach simple syrup...  we hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online!

Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Dehydrated Peach Slices (we used our air fryer on the lowest setting)
2 Sprigs of Rosemary

 

For Simple Syrup
4 oz. Sugar
8 oz. Water
1 Peach Chopped
1-2 Sprigs of Thyme


For Drink
1-2 Peaches Diced
3 oz. Peach/Thyme Simple Syrup
4 oz. Kentucky Bourbon
3 oz. Lime Juice
3-4 Sprigs Fresh Rosemary
3-4 Sprigs Fresh Thyme
Ginger Bitters

Ice

You will also need a mixing glass, bar spoon, hawthorne strainer, fine mesh strainer, muddler, 2 rocks tumblers, culinary torch/lighter and optional cocktail smoker. 

 

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Let's Make the Peach Thyme Simple Syrup!

  1. In small pot or saucepan add:

    • Sugar (4 oz.)

    • Water (4 oz.)

    • 1 Peach (chopped)

    • 1-2 Sprigs of Thyme

  2. Cook on Medium heat until liquid is reduced by half.

  3. Strain and Set Aside to Cool

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. First, let's smoke our glasses. We used our Foghat cocktail smoker along with their bourbon barrel oak fuel and a few pieces of rosemary. If you do not have a smoker, you can carefully light your rosemary and wood chips until smoking (not on fire) and place your rocks tumbler upside down over it to capture the smoke. Set aside.

  2. In your mixing glass, add:

    • Diced Peaches

    • Rosemary

    • Thyme

    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (3 oz.)

  3. Muddle.

  4. Add Remaining Ingredients:

    • Ice

    • Peach Simple Syrup (3 oz.)

    • Bourbon (4 oz.)

    • Few Dashes of  Bitters

  5. Stir gently.

  6. Remove rocks tumbler from smoke and fill glass with ice.

  7. Double strain your cocktail using fine mesh strainer and your hawthrone strainer between both of your tumblers.

  8. Garnish with your dehydrated peach slice and sprig of rosemary.

  9. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Smoked Peach   Press Play!       



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“Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough.”

– Mark Twain
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon peach smoked smoky whiskey cocktail whisky https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/9/smoky-bourbon-peach-cocktail Mon, 27 Sep 2021 16:53:14 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Cafe Amaretto https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/9/cafe-amaretto Hey There!

We were inspired to recreate this hot cocktail after traveling last week. After staying up late to finish packing, zooming through traffic and airport security; I spent $42 on 2 magazines and a snack, then Frank needed a coffee but also a cocktail. LOL  Cafe Amaretto sounds like a lovely place to visit but it is actually an Italian cocktail typically made with hot coffee, cognac/brandy, amaretto & whipped cream. We skipped the whip and opted for froth and garnished with nutmeg. *chef's kiss* We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Nutmeg

 

For Drink
1 oz. Amaretto (DiSaronno)
.5 oz. cognac (Courvoisier)
2 oz. Light Cream Froth
8 oz. Fresh Coffee
Sugar to taste

 

You will also need a mug, a bar spoon, milk/cream frother (or you can substitute with whip).
 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Add your freshly brewed coffee to your mug. (We used a hazelnut cream flavor blend for ours)

  2. Add in Cognac/Brandy (.5 oz.) and Amaretto (1 oz.)

  3. Stir Gently

  4. Top with Froth or Whipped Cream

  5. Garnish with a dusting of nutmeg.

  6. Add sugar to taste if necessary.

  7. Enjoy!!

 

Mixology Monday - Cafe Amaretto

Press Play!

 


 

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"The airport is a lawless place. 7am? Drink a beer. Tired? Sleep on the floor. Hungry? Chips now cost $17."

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) amaretto brandy coffee coffee cocktail cognac https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/9/cafe-amaretto Mon, 20 Sep 2021 18:20:36 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Blueberry Butterfly https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/9/blueberrybutterfly Hey there!

Today is Labor Day, the unofficial end to summer and we're sharing an original cocktail perfect for sipping poolside as you soak up the remaining summer sun rays. For this recipe you will need to either purchase or make butterfly pea flower tea. We will walk you through the steps of making the tea below. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

BB-IMG_5021BB-IMG_5021           

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Bunch of Mint Leaves
Handful of Blueberries

 

For Drink
1/2 oz. 44 North Vodka (Mountain Huckleberry)
1 oz. Cointreau
2 oz. Blueberry Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (details below)

2-2 1/2 oz. Elderflower Tonic Water
1 oz. Lime Juice
Ice

You will also need a small pot, colander, a mixing glass, bar spoon, strainer , ice and a tumbler.
 

Let's Make the Butterfly Pea Flower Tea!

  1. For the tea you will need butterfly pea flowers, water and sugar. We purchased our butterfly pea flowers from amazon.( link here)

  2. In a small pot add 3 cups of water and bring to a boil.

  3. Add a handful of butterfly pea flowers and a handful of blueberries  to your boiling water let boil for 3 minutes.

  4. Reduce heat, strain out flowers and blueberries, and add 2 tbsp sugar.

  5. Simmer until sugar dissolves.

  6. Set Aside and let chill.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your mixing glass add:

    • Ice

    • Vodka (We used 44 North in Mountain Huckleberry) (1/2 oz.)

    • Cointreau (1 oz.)

    • Blueberry Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (2 oz.)

    • Lime Juice (1 oz.)

  2. Stir Gently

  3. Strain into your ice filled tumbler

  4. Top with Tonic Water

  5. Garnish with mint and blueberries

  6. Enjoy!!

 

Mixology Monday - Blueberry Butterfly

Press Play!

 



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“Summer’s lease hath all too short a date.”

– William Shakespeare


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands butterfly pea flower vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/9/blueberrybutterfly Mon, 06 Sep 2021 16:41:38 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Paloma https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/8/paloma Hey There!

Today we're sharing a popular cocktail in Mexico called the Paloma, which translates to "dove". The classic/traditional Paloma is made with tequila and grapefruit soda. If you cannot find grapefruit soda, you can use fresh squeezed grapefruit juice and club soda like we did. This cocktail screams, just a little more summer please!! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

             

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Grapefruit Wedges
2 Bunches of Mint Leaves

Granulated Sugar (or salt)
1/2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice


For Drink
3 oz. Silver Tequila
3 oz. Fresh Grapefruit Juice
1.5 oz. Fresh Lime Juice
4 oz. Club Soda
Ice

 

You will also need a mixing glass, bar spoon, hawthorne strainer, 2 highballs or tumblers and 2 small plates to help rim your glass.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Use 1/2 ounce of lime juice and granulated sugar to rim 2 tumbler glasses. (You can also use salt if you wish to enhance the grapefruit flavor). Set glasses aside.

  2. In your mixing glass, add:

    • Silver Tequila

    • Grapefruit juice

    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice

    • Ice

  3. Stir gently and use Hawthorne Strainer to pour evenly between your two sugar-rimmed glasses.

  4. Top with club soda and garnish with grapefruit wedges and mint leaves.

  5. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Paloma

  Press Play!       


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"A little bit of summer is what the whole year is all about."

-John Mayer
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) paloma tequila tequila cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/8/paloma Mon, 30 Aug 2021 16:09:22 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Frozen Aperol Spritz https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/8/frozen-aperol-spritz Hey There!

An Aperol spritz is an Italian wine based cocktail and it is having a moment this summer! We knew we wanted to get on this bandwagon especially after seeing the frozen variations from The Social Sipper and The Cocktail Snob NYC! We added peaches and raspberries and fell in love! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

            

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Orange Wheels
2 cocktail picks with 3 frozen raspberries (optional)

 


For Drink
3/4 cup frozen OJ 
1/4 cup frozen raspberries 
1/2 cup frozen peaches 
8 oz. Prosecco
4 oz. Aperol
1/2 cup Ice

 

You will also need a blender and 2 wine glasses, we opted for stemless.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. The day/night before, freeze a few cubes of orange juice and also freeze a container with some chopped peaches and whole raspberries.

  2. When ready, add all ingredients to your blender.

  3. Blend well for about 1 minute.

  4. Pour evenly between two wine glasses and garnish with an orange wheel and raspberries!

  5. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Frozen Aperol Spritz

  Press Play!       



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"Always keep a bottle of Prosecco in the fridge for special occasions, you know, like Monday!"
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) aperol aperol spritz frozen frozen cocktail prosecco wine https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/8/frozen-aperol-spritz Mon, 23 Aug 2021 19:53:08 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Cuba Libre https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/8/cuba-libre Hey Hey!

Today is national rum day and we are sharing the recipe for a Cuba Libre. Cuba Libre which translates to Free Cuba, may seem at a glance just rum and Coke, but the addition of lime juice makes all the difference. The cocktail originated in the early 20th century in Cuba, after the country won independence in the Spanish–American War. It subsequently became popular across Cuba, the United States, and beyond! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

CL-IMG_3437CL-IMG_3437            

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Bunch of Cilantro
1 Bunch of Mint Leaves
Lime Wedges/Slices & Twist of Lime


For Drink
2 oz. Rum
1 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime juice
~4-5 oz. Cola
Dash of Vanilla Extract
Ice
Several Lime Slices (optional)

You will also need a highball/collins glass and a bar spoon.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Fill your highball/collins glass with ice and lime slices.

  2. Add a few drops of vanilla extract.

  3. Add 2 oz. Rum (We used Bacardi Anejo Cuatro Rum)

  4. Add 1 oz. freshly squeezed lime juice.

  5. Top with cola and stir gently.

  6. Garnish with mint, cilantro and lime twist.

  7. Enjoy!

Mixology Monday - Cuba Libre  Press Play!       



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"The only way that I could figure they could improve on Coca-Cola, one of life's most delightful elixirs, which studies prove will heal the sick and occasionally raise the dead, is to put rum or bourbon in it. "

- Lewis Grizzard 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cola cuba libre lime national rum day rum rum and coke https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/8/cuba-libre Mon, 16 Aug 2021 15:04:37 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Strawberry Éclair Gin Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/8/Strawberry-Eclair-Gin-Sour Hey there!

Today we are sharing an original cocktail with flavors reminiscent of a strawberry éclair. We combined fresh strawberries, Crema di Limoncello, lime juice, mint, Indoggo (Snoop Dogg's strawberry infused gin), and egg white for a nice froth. We know this one will satisfy your sweet tooth.  We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

SGS-IMG_3170SGS-IMG_3170           

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 or 2 Thin Slices of Strawberry
1 Small Bunch of Mint Leaves

For Strawberry Simple Syrup
1/2 cup Sugar
1/2 cup Water
6 Chopped Strawberries


For Drink
1.5 oz. Indoggo strawberry infused Gin
.75 oz Crema di Limoncello (Fabrizia Cream Liqueur)
1.25 oz. Strawberry Simple Syrup 
.75 oz. Lime juice
1 mint leaf
1 egg white
2-3 chopped strawberries
Ice

You will also need a sauce pan/pot, shaker cup, muddler and a coup glass.

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Let's Make the Simple Syrup!

  1. Add water, sugar and chopped strawberries to a sauce pan/pot. 

  2. Let simmer over medium/low heat until it reduces by half. 

  3. Strain out the strawberries.

  4. Set aside to cool.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In shaker cup add and muddle 2-3 strawberries

  2. Add Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice & 1 Egg White

  3. Dry shake vigorously 30 seconds (no ice)

  4. Add remaining ingredients to shaker cup:

    • Simple Syrup (1.25 oz)

    • Crema di Limoncello (.75 oz)

    • Gin (1.5 oz)

    • Mint Leaf (give mint a slap before adding to shaker cup)

    • Ice

  5. Shake 30 seconds 

  6. Strain into coupe glass (spoon additional froth on top of cocktail as desired)

  7. Garnish with strawberry slice & mint

  8. Enjoy!

SGS-IMG_3131SGS-IMG_3131 SGS-IMG_3132SGS-IMG_3132 SGS-IMG_3138SGS-IMG_3138 SGS-IMG_3147SGS-IMG_3147 SGS-IMG_3151SGS-IMG_3151 SGS-IMG_3152SGS-IMG_3152 SGS-IMG_3155SGS-IMG_3155 SGS-IMG_3156SGS-IMG_3156 SGS-IMG_3160SGS-IMG_3160 SGS-IMG_3159SGS-IMG_3159 SGS-IMG_3162SGS-IMG_3162 SGS-IMG_3163SGS-IMG_3163 SGS-IMG_3164SGS-IMG_3164 SGS-IMG_3165SGS-IMG_3165 SGS-IMG_3168SGS-IMG_3168

       



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"According to chemists, gin IS a solution."
 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands gin gin sour limoncello strawberry https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/8/Strawberry-Eclair-Gin-Sour Mon, 09 Aug 2021 14:48:50 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Mana Sunrise https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/8/mana-sunrise Hey there!

Today's' cocktail  comes from Zack Prohaska of Cocktail and Dreams Bartending (link here). We were specifically wanting to share a cocktail featuring everyone's summertime favorite, watermelon and knew this was a winner right away. In addition to Aperol and Teremana Tequila, you will need to either purchase or make butterfly pea flower tea. We will walk you through the steps of making the tea below. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

MS-IMG_2768MS-IMG_2768          

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Watermelon Wedge
1 Pineapple Wedge

 

For Drink
2-3 chunks of watermelon 
2-3 chunks pineapple
2 tsp. honey
1 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice (1 lime)
1 oz. Teremana Tequila
1/2 oz. Aperol
~ 2 oz. Butterfly Pea Flower Tea (details below)

You will also need a small pot, colander, ideally 2 shaker cups (but one is ok), muddler, hawthorne strainer/strainer , ice and a collins glass.
 

Let's Make the Butterfly Pea Flower Tea!

  1. For the tea you will need butterfly pea flowers, water and sugar. We purchased our butterfly pea flowers from amazon.( link here)

  2. In a small pot add 3 cups of water and bring to a boil.

  3. Add a handful of butterfly pea flowers and let boil for 3 minutes.

  4. Reduce heat, strain out flowers and add 2 tbsp sugar.

  5. Simmer until sugar dissolves.

  6. Set Aside and let chill.

MS-IMG_2719MS-IMG_2719

 

Let's Make the Drink!

This drink requires separate muddling of the watermelon and pineapple, if you do not have two shaker cups you can use one, but we recommend rinsing in between mixtures.

  1. In shaker cup 1 add:

    • 2-3 chunks of pineapple

    • 1/2 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice

    • 2 teaspoons honey (we used blood orange infused honey by Batch2020 link here)

  2. Muddle and add 1 oz. Teremana Tequila and set aside.

  3. In shaker cup 2 add:

    • 2-3 chunks watermelon

    • 1/2 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice

  4. Muddle and add 1/2 oz. Aperol and 1/2 oz. Teremana Tequila.

  5. Add ice to both shaker cups and shake well.

  6. Fill collins glass with ice.

  7. Gently strain into collins glass the pineapple mixture first, then your watermelon mixture.

  8. Top with butterfly pea flower tea.

  9. Garnish with fruit of your choice, we chose watermelon and pineapple.

  10. Enjoy!

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"If you want to make some memories, add some tequila."
 

 

 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) aperol black owned brands pineapple tequila tequila sunrise watermelon https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/8/mana-sunrise Mon, 02 Aug 2021 21:41:39 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Mango Daiquiri https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/7/mango-daiquiri Hey there!

Here's another frozen cocktail to beat the summer heat. All you need are some ripe mangoes, fresh squeezed lime juice, rum and some mint! If you close your eyes while sipping you can almost hear the ocean. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

MD-IMG_2175MD-IMG_2175         

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Lime Wheels
2-4 bunches of mint leaves

 

For Drink
4 oz. Rum (we used Malibu) 
1 oz. Fresh Squeeze Lime Juice
~2 tsp. Lime Mint Sugar (details below)

1-2 Mangoes (chopped)
Ice
 

You will also need a blender and two coup or martini glasses.
 

MD-IMG_2233MD-IMG_2233

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Chop up your mango (we used fresh fruit but you can definitely use frozen with less/no ice).

  2. Add everything to you blender:

    • Rum  (~3.5 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (1 oz.)

    • 1-2 Mangoes (Chopped)

    • Lime Mint Sugar (2 tsp) - (add lime zest and finely chopped mint to your granulated sugar and mix)

      • You can also rim your coup/martini glasses with this  mixture if you'd like.

    • Ice (~ 1 cup)

  3. Run blender until everything is well combined.

  4. Pour equally between 2 coup/martini glasses.

  5. Garnish with lime wheel and mint leaves.

  6. Enjoy!


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"Rum is never the answer… But it does make you forget the question."

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) daiquiri mango mango daiquiri mint rum https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/7/mango-daiquiri Mon, 26 Jul 2021 17:44:35 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Peach Mint Julep https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/7/peach-mint-julep Hey there!

Today's recipe is for a cocktail known as the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby. We think our version which includes a peach simple syrup and grilled peach garnish is better than good enough to enjoy not just in the spring on Derby Day but all throughout summer. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

MJ-IMG_1463MJ-IMG_1463        

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Peach Slices
2-4 bunches of mint leaves
1 tsp honey

For Simple Syrup
4 oz. Sugar
4 oz. Water
2 Peaches Chopped
2-4 Sprigs of Thyme

 

For Drink
3 oz. Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey (However we chose to use Monkey Shoulder, a malt scotch whiskey) 
2 oz. Peach Simple Syrup
8-10 Fresh Mint Leaves
Crushed Ice

 

You will also need a mixing glass, muddler,  strainer,  2 rocks glass/tumblers, sauce pan and grill/grill pan.
 

Let's Make the Simple Syrup & Garnish!

  1. In a small pot/saucepan add:

    • Sugar (4 oz.)

    • Water (4 oz.)

    • 2 Peaches (chopped)

    • 2-4 Sprigs of thyme

  2. Cook of medium heat until reduced by half.

  3. Strain and set aside.

  4. While your simple syrup cools, cut two 1/4 inch slices of peach.

  5. Rub each side with small amount of honey.

  6. Grill over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side.

  7. Set aside to cool.

MJ-IMG_1381MJ-IMG_1381 MJ-IMG_1393MJ-IMG_1393

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your mixing glass add:

    • Mint leaves (8-10 leaves)

    • Peach Simple Syrup (2 oz.)

  2. Muddle and set aside.

  3. Fill each 8 oz. rocks glass with crushed ice.

  4. Add Bourbon Whiskey & stir gently (1.5 oz for each glass)

  5. Top with the mint muddled Peach Simple Syrup. (1 oz for each glass)

  6. Garnish with grilled peach slice & fresh mint.

  7. Enjoy!

MJ-IMG_1408MJ-IMG_1408 MJ-IMG_1414MJ-IMG_1414 MJ-IMG_1422MJ-IMG_1422 MJ-IMG_1427MJ-IMG_1427 MJ-IMG_1431MJ-IMG_1431 MJ-IMG_1435MJ-IMG_1435 MJ-IMG_1436MJ-IMG_1436 MJ-IMG_1438MJ-IMG_1438 MJ-IMG_1443MJ-IMG_1443 MJ-IMG_1445MJ-IMG_1445

           


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“There is no bad whiskey. There are only some whiskeys that aren’t as good as others.” – Raymond Chandler
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon mint julep peach whiskey https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/7/peach-mint-julep Mon, 19 Jul 2021 19:00:52 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Black Widow https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/7/black-widow-cocktail Hey there!

Today's recipe is dedicated to Natasha, Yelena and the MCU. The black widow cocktail, created by San Francisco bartender Duggan McDonnell combines blanco tequila, blackberries, basil, agave nectar and fresh squeezed lime juice for something sweet with a bite. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

BW-IMG_1215BW-IMG_1215       

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Bunches of basil leaves
6 Blackberries

 

For Drink
6-10 Basil leaves
4-6 Blackberries
3 oz. Blanco tequila 
2 tsp. Agave Nectar
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice

Ice

You will also need a shaker cup, muddler,  strainer,  2 rocks tumblers and 2 cocktail picks


BW-IMG_1227BW-IMG_1227

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add:

    • Basil (6-10 leaves)

    • Blackberries (4-6 berries)

  2. Muddle for 10 seconds or so

  3. Add remaining ingredients to your shaker cup

    • Blanco Tequila (3oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (2 oz.)

    • Agave Nectar (2 tsp. adjust as needed)

    • Ice

  4. Shake vigorously

  5. Strain between your two rocks tumblers full of ice.

  6. Garnish each glass with a bunch of basil leaves and 3 blackberries.

  7. Enjoy!

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"At some point, we all have to choose between what the world wants you to be and who you are"
 

-Natasha Romanoff


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black widow blackberries tequila tequila cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/7/black-widow-cocktail Mon, 12 Jul 2021 15:30:47 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Bee's Knees https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/7/bees-knees Hey Hey!

I just love this cocktail! This prohibition era drink definitely lives up to its name! You only need a few ingredients: gin, lemon juice and honey syrup so whipping this up is super quick. We will walk you through how to make the honey syrup as well as this refreshing cocktail.  We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

BK-IMG_0936BK-IMG_0936      

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Lemon Peel Spirals

2 Sprigs of Thyme

For Honey Thyme Syrup
1 Part Honey (adjust to taste; you can also equal part sugar for a sweeter syrup)
1 Part Water
Several Sprigs of Thyme (we specifically used lemon thyme)

For Drink
4 oz. Gin (we used Hendricks Lunar) 
1.5 oz. Honey Thyme Syrup
~2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice

 

You will also need a shaker cup, hawthorne strainer and 2 coup glasses.

BK-IMG_0906BK-IMG_0906
 

Let's Make the Honey Syrup!

  1. Combine 1part water and 1 part honey (along with 1 part sugar if you choose) along with your thyme in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until honey dissolves and liquid reduces (approx 10-15 minutes) Remove from heat, and cool to room temperature, and strain out thyme. 

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add:

    • Gin (4 oz.) (we used Hendricks Lunar Gin)

    • Honey Thyme Syrup (1.5 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (~2 oz.)

  2. Shake for 10 - 20 seconds or so.

  3. Pour equally between your coup glasses.

  4. Garnish with lemon spiral and sprig of thyme

  5. Enjoy!

BK-IMG_0908BK-IMG_0908 BK-IMG_0910BK-IMG_0910 BK-IMG_0913BK-IMG_0913 BK-IMG_0914BK-IMG_0914 BK-IMG_0915BK-IMG_0915 BK-IMG_0917BK-IMG_0917 BK-IMG_0918BK-IMG_0918 BK-IMG_0919BK-IMG_0919 BK-IMG_0921BK-IMG_0921          


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"The flower doesn't dream of the bee. It blossoms and the bee comes."

-Mark Nepo


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bee's knees gin honey syrup https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/7/bees-knees Mon, 05 Jul 2021 16:14:16 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Kiwi Lemonade https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/6/kiwi-lemonade Hey There!

In my opinion a nice cold glass of lemonade is quintessentially summer. It's super easy to make with only three ingredients that you probably already have. Now that summer plans are beginning to happen, save this recipe for your next get together. We spiked our lemonade with vodka and added some kiwi. *chef's kiss* Your guests will love you for this one. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

KL-IMG_0675KL-IMG_0675     

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Lemon wheels

 

For Drink
2 Kiwis 
3 oz. Midori
3 oz. Vodka
1.5 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
4-5 oz. Fresh Lemonade
(1 cup of lemon juice to 1 cup of sugar added to 1 1/2 quarts of cold water)
Ice

You will also need a highball or collins glass, muddler, strainer and mixing glass.


KL-IMG_0653KL-IMG_0653

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your mixing glass add:

    • Chopped Kiwi

    • Midori (3 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (1.5 oz.)

  2. Muddle for 10 - 20 seconds or so.

  3. Add Vodka (3 oz.) to Mixing Glass.

  4. Stir gently.

  5. Fill your highball/collins glass with ice and add 2 or 2.5 oz. of lemonade to each glass.

  6. Strain your kiwi mixture evenly between each glass. (feel free to spoon a few chunks of kiwi into your glass if you like)

  7. Garnish with lemon wheel and enjoy!

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“When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. Then find someone who's life is giving them vodka and have a party!”
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) kiwi lemonade lime mixed spiked lemonade vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/6/kiwi-lemonade Mon, 28 Jun 2021 23:46:45 GMT
Super Easy Low Calorie Veggie Snack - Zucchini Fritters https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/6/super-easy-low-calorie-veggie-snack---zucchini-fritters Hey hey!

I love squash and all its varieties... acorn, spaghetti, butternut, winter or summer squash aka zucchini. Zucchini is so fun and versatile and pairs well with just about anything. I recently made zucchini fritters and knew I had to share the recipe. So here's an easy, quick, low calorie, veggie snack you'll definitely have to make more than once.

 

Here's What You Need:

  • 1 large zucchini
  • 1 sliced green onion
  • 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp olive oil (plus additional oil for cooking)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • Optional: a few dollops of sour cream for serving

You'll also need a grater, colander, mixing bowl, non stick skillet, wire cooling rack.

 

Timing:

  • Prep: 20 min
  • Cook: 5-10 min
  • Yields 4-5 Fritters

ZF-IMG_1557ZF-IMG_1557

Let's Make Some Fritters:

  1. Trim the ends off of your zucchini and shred the remaining with a grater.

  2. Place the shredded zucchini in a colander set inside a bowl and sprinkle lightly with salt. Allow the zucchini to sit for approx. 10 minutes.

  3. Push/squeeze out as much liquid from the zucchini as possible. When dry, Transfer the zucchini to a large bowl.

  4. Add the flour, egg, ¾ of your sliced scallions, salt and pepper to the bowl, stirring until the mixture is combined.

  5. Add large drizzle of olive oil to skillet set over medium heat.

  6. Using a tablespoon or ice cream scoop, form even balls of your zucchini batter and place in pan about 2 inches apart. Lightly flatten with a spatula and cook on both side 3-4 min until golden brown.

  7. Transfer the zucchini fritters to your wire cooling rack and sprinkle with salt.

  8. Serve the zucchini fritters topped with sour cream (optional) and remaining sliced scallions. I also added broccoli micro greens on mine to be fancy! 😊

  9. Enjoy!


    ZF-IMG_0525cropZF-IMG_0525crop  


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cooking with nikki fritter fritters" low calorie recipe vegetarian zucchini zucchini fritters https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/6/super-easy-low-calorie-veggie-snack---zucchini-fritters Wed, 23 Jun 2021 23:28:46 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Rhubarb Basil Gin Cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/6/rhubarb-basil-gin-cocktail Hey There!

This week's cocktail inspired us to try something new. Rhubarb is an edible plant that we have never used before. It grows in cooler temperatures so typically becomes available in spring--- in case you are wondering why you might be seeing rhubarb recipes popping up like we have. When eaten raw, rhubarb is quite tart but after cooking, that tartness fades. So we decided to infuse it into a simple syrup. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

RG-IMG_0354RG-IMG_0354    

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Rhubarb ribbons
2 Basil /Mint Leave bunches (optional)

 

For Rhubarb Simple Syrup
1 part Honey
2 parts Sugar
2 parts Water
Fresh Basil
Chopped Rhubarb


For Drink
Chopped Rhubarb
Fresh Basil
1.5 oz. Lemon Juice
2 oz. Rhubarb Basil Syrup
2 oz. Amaro Nonino
4 oz. Bombay Sapphire Gin
~4 oz. Elderflower Tonic Water
Ice

You will also need a rocks tumbler, muddler, strainer and a shaker cup.


 

Let's Make the Simple Syrup!

  1. Add water, sugar, honey, fresh basil, and chopped rhubarb to a sauce pan. (We used 1 cup sugar, 1 cup water, 4 oz. honey, 6-8 basil leaves & 3/4 chopped rhubarb)

  2. Let simmer over medium/low heat until it reduces by half (approx 6 oz.)

  3. Strain out the rhubarb and basil.

  4. Set aside to cool.

RG-IMG_0325RG-IMG_0325

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add:

    • Chopped Rhubarb

    • Rhubarb Syrup (2 oz.)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (1.5 oz.)

    • Fresh Basil 

  2. Muddle for 10 - 20 seconds or so.

  3. In your shaker cup add:

    • Add Ice

    • Amaro Nonino (2oz.)

    • Bombay Sapphire (4 oz.)

  4. Shake  Well 

  5. Strain evenly between two ice filled glasses

  6. Top with Tonic water (We used Edlerflower Tonic water by Fevertree)

  7. Garnish with Rhubarb ribbon and optional basil or mint leaves.

  8. Enjoy!

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"I love water, especially when it’s frozen and surrounded by gin."
-unknown

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) basil gin rhubarb https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/6/rhubarb-basil-gin-cocktail Mon, 21 Jun 2021 17:35:46 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Paper Plane https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/6/paper-plane Hey There!

It's national bourbon day so we definitely wanted to feature it in this week's cocktail. The Paper Plane cocktail was invented in 2008 by Sam Ross and is a modern take on the class Last Word cocktail. Ross was inspired by M.I.A. hit song at the time and garnished the drink with a paper plane. We opted for a orange peel instead. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

PP-IMG_2968PP-IMG_2968
        

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 orange peel curl

For Drink
3/4 oz. Bourbon
3/4 oz. Aperol
3/4 oz. Amaro Nonino Quintessentia
3/4 oz. Fresh Squeeze Lemon Juice

You will also need 1 coup glass, a shaker cup, hawthorne strainer,  and ice.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In shaker cup glass, add: 

    • Ice

    • Bourbon (3/4 oz.)

    • Aperol  (3/4 oz.)

    • Amaro Nonino (3/4 oz.)

    • Lemon Juice (3/4 oz.)

  2. Shake 20 seconds or so.

  3. Strain into your coup glass.

  4. Garnish with your orange peel curl.

  5. Sip slow and enjoy your flight!

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If I cannot drink Bourbon and smoke cigars in Heaven than I shall not go.

-Mark Twain
 

 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) amaro amaro nonino aperol bourbon paper plane https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/6/paper-plane Mon, 14 Jun 2021 21:24:39 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Manhattan https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/6/manhattan Hey There!

This week's cocktail recipe is another timeless classic similar to the old fashioned and sidecar.  The bold but sippable Manhattan combines whiskey, vermouth and bitters with a cherry garnish. Named for one of NY's five boroughs, the Manhattan is simple and straightforward, no frills or fanfare but has many variations. For our recipe, we used the black owned brands Shinju Whisky and Hella Bitters because we truly love them. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

Find Shinju, near you! https://www.shinjuwhisky.com/
Find Hella Cocktail Co., near you! https://hellacocktail.co/pages/find-it

 

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

MA-IMG_2794MA-IMG_2794        

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Cocktail Cherry (we used a bourbon cherry)

For Drink
2 oz. Whisky
3/4 oz. Sweet Vermouth
Several Dashes Bitters (we used ginger bitters)
 

You will also need 1 martini glass, a mixing glass, hawthorne strainer, cocktail pick, bar spoon and ice.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In mixing glass, add: 

    • Ice

    • Whisky (2 oz.)

    • Sweet Vermouth (3/4 oz.)

    • Bitters (several dashes)

  2. Stir gently.

  3. Strain into your martini glass.

  4. Skewer your cocktail cherry and add as garnish.

  5. Sip slow and Enjoy!

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"Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough."

– Mark Twain

 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands manhattan whiskey whisky https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/6/manhattan Mon, 07 Jun 2021 13:22:12 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Boozy Popsicles https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/5/boozy-popsicles Hey There!

This week's cocktail recipe is actually not really a beverage, but a minty, peachy, strawberry frozen treat to celebrate the unofficial start of summer. You can find your popsicle molds at your local Target like we did or online. When creating your popsicles its important to keep the ratio of non alcoholic liquid to liquor in mind. Vodka has a lower freezing point than non alcoholic liquid. So when you mix it with regular liquid then it raises the freezing temperature. If you keep the ratio around 3 or 4 to 1 liquid to alcohol, you ensure that the popsicles will freeze at your normal freezer temperature. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes six 3oz popsicles! Let's get started!

PS-IMG_2403PS-IMG_2403        

Here's what you need:


For Popsicles
Several Bunches of Mint Leaves
Thinly Sliced Fruit (we used peaches and strawberries)

6 oz. Vodka
2 oz. Lemon Juice
3 1/4 oz. Simple Syrup
7 1/4 oz. Coconut Water

You will also need popsicle molds with popsicle sticks, muddler, mixing glass, strainer, knife or mandolin.

 

Let's Make the Popsicles!

  1. Prep Your Fruit and Mint Leaves

    • Thinly slice your strawberries, peaches or fruit of choice with a knife or mandolin.

    • Set aside a few small mint leaves for the popsicles along with several larger leaves.

  2. In Mixing Glass add and muddle for 10 seconds or so:

    • Lemon Juice (2 oz.)

    • Simple Syrup (3 1/4 oz.)

    • Mint Leaves

  3. After muddling, add:

    • Coconut Water (7 1/4 oz.)

    • Vodka (6 oz.)

  4. For the look of our pops we wanted the fruit and mint leaves to be visible on the sizes so we placed them using tweezers to the walls of the popsicle molds and placed in the freezer for a little while (45 min - 1 hour or so). You can skip this step if you like and just add the fruit to your mixture.

  5. Fill each popsicle mold with mixture and secure your popsicle sticks. (we used two layers of saran wrap)

  6. Freeze for 6 hours or longer.

  7. Enjoy!

 

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"A little bit of summer is what the whole year is all about."

-John Mayer


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) boozy popsicles frozen cocktail popsicles vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/5/boozy-popsicles Mon, 31 May 2021 21:30:18 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Classic Negroni https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/5/negroni Hey There!

This week's cocktail recipe is the classic Negroni. It hails from Italy and is considered an apéritif or a "before dinner drink", used to stimulate the appetite, and is usually dry rather than sweet. The Negroni definitely leans more toward dry/bitter so some may say it's an acquired taste. I guess that means if you and your palate are on the fence, you'll have to keep trying to know for sure! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Slices of Orange Peel

For Drink
2 oz. Gin
2 oz. Vermouth
2 oz. Campari

Ice

You will also need 2 rocks tumblers, peeler, a mixing glass, strainer and a bar spoon.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In mixing glass, add: 

    • Ice

    • Gin (2 oz.)

    • Vermouth (2 oz.)

    • Campari (2 oz.)

  2. Stir gently.

  3. Add ice to your rocks tumblers.

  4. Strain and pour cocktail mixture evenly between both glasses.

  5. Twist orange peel over glass then place as garnish.

  6. Sip slow and Enjoy!

 

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"The proper union of gin and vermouth is a great and sudden glory; it is one of the happiest marriages on earth, and one of the shortest lived." 

— Bernard DeVoto
 

 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) apéritif brunch campari gin negroni vermouth https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/5/negroni Mon, 24 May 2021 15:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Layers of Paradise https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/5/layers-of-paradise Hey There!

This week's cocktail recipe comes from Drinks Made Easy. We saw his YouTube video and were compelled to recreate and share! One sip you understand why this is called 'Paradise'. Close your eyes and you can almost hear the roar of the ocean, feel the sand in your toes.... smell the sunscreen as the sun kisses your face.... ahhh yesss.  For a step by step video to ensure your drink layers are defined please visit Drinks Made Easy!! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

LP-IMG_0702LP-IMG_0702      

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Peel from Lime Wedge
1 Cocktail Pick


For Drink
3 oz. Pineapple Juice
2 oz. Coconut Rum (we used Malibu)
1/4 oz. Blue Curaçao
1 oz. Water
1/2 oz. Grenadine

Ice

You will also need 2 mixing glasses, 1 Collins or hurricane glass and bar spoon.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In mixing glass #1, add & stir with bar spoon:

    • Pineapple Juice (3 oz.)

    • Coconut Rum (2 oz.)

  2. In mixing glass #2, add & stir with bar spoon:

    • Blue Curaçao(1/4 oz.)

    • Water (1 oz.)

  3. In your Hurricane or Collins glass, add the following in this order:

    • Grenadine (1/2 oz.)

    • Ice (fill to brim of glass)

    • Straw (optional... can also carefully add at the end)

    • Contents of mixing glass #1 (pineapple juice and rum)

    • Contents of mixing glass #2 (blue curaçao and water)

  4. Garnish with lime peel (yes we put the lime in the coconut lol)

    • We took the peel of a lime wedge and cut 4 slits end to end 

    • Then folded the wedge in half and secure with cocktail pick.

  5. Sip slow and Enjoy!

 

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"If you spend your whole life waiting for the storm, you'll never enjoy the sunshine."

-Morris West


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) blue curacao brunch coconut grenadine pineapple juice rum https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/5/layers-of-paradise Mon, 17 May 2021 15:09:51 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Salted Caramel Espresso Martini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/5/salted-caramel-espresso-martini Hey There!

For inspiration for this week's post we visited newly opened, black owned rum distillery Striped Lion in Woodury, NJ. This family owned & operated distillery opened its doors in December 2020 and offers tours and tastings daily. They offer six varieties of rum including cocoa, cinnamon and citrus but we were pleasantly surprised by the Rum Collector's Reserve which is a blend of 4-10 year old aged rum from Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Panama, and the United States. We decided to pair this with Bailey's liqueur and espresso for another variation of the espresso martini.  We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

To Find Striped Lion Rum or Book a Reservation: Visit the website

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

SC-IMG_0360SC-IMG_0360     

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Cup Granulated Sugar
Baking Sheet & Silicon Mat or Wax Paper


For Drink
3 oz. Rum  (we used Striped Lion)
1.5 oz. Bailey's Salted Caramel
1.5 oz. Espresso
1/2 oz. Caramel Syrup
1 Dash Nutmeg
1 Dash Cinnamon

Ice
 

You will also need 2 martini glasses / coup glasses, hawthorne strainer, shaker cup, small pot and spoon.

 

SC-IMG_0376SC-IMG_0376
 

Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. In small pot over medium heat, add 1 cup of sugar.

  2. Stir frequently until it has completely melted into caramel.

  3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

  4. Using spoon, drizzle caramel into desired shapes onto baking sheet.

  5. Let cool completely before removing from sheet (5-10 minutes or so).  

Note: video of this process is loaded on instagram

SC-IMG_0408SC-IMG_0408

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add:

    • Ice

    • Espresso (3/4 oz.)

    • Cinnamon & Nutmeg (1 dash each)

    • Caramel Syrup (1/4 oz.)

    • Bailey's Salted Caramel Liqueur (3/4 oz.)

    • Rum (1.5 oz)

  2. Shake for 30 seconds or so until chilled.

  3. Strain between both martini/coup glasses.

  4. Garnish with your spun sugar/caramel candy.

  5. Enjoy!

 

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“The powers of a man’s mind are directly proportional to the quantity of coffee he drinks.”
-
Sir James MacKintosh

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands brunch cocktail with coffee coffee coffee cocktail espresso martini rum savory https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/5/salted-caramel-espresso-martini Mon, 10 May 2021 15:05:53 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Rosemary Pear Margarita https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/5/rosemary-pear-margarita Hey Hey!

Cinco de Mayo is approaching. The 5th of May is the anniversary of the Battle of Puebla, a battle which resulted in the victory of Mexico over France in 1862, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica, and is mainly celebrated in Puebla, Mexico. However, for many Americans, Cinco de Mayo is more about celebrating Mexican culture and is an excuse to eat Mexican food and drink Tequila. If you plan to pay tribute to Mexican culture and heritage, here's a margarita recipe for you to try! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

PM-IMG_9992PM-IMG_9992    
 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Sprigs of Rosemary
2 Slices of Pear (we used Bosc ears)
1 tsp. Lime Juice
Margarita Salt & Sugar (for rim of glass)


For Drink
3 oz. Reposado Tequila (we used Teremana)
1 oz. Cointreau
3 oz. Pear Juice
1 oz. Simple Syrup
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
2 Sprigs of Rosemary

Ice

You will also need 2 rocks tumblers or margarita glasses, strainer/hawthorne strainer and a shaker cup.

PM-IMG_9917PM-IMG_9917
 

Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. In small dish (wider than your glass) add your salt and sugar mix. (we used margarita salt and sugar in the raw).

  2. Use small amount of lime juice around rim of glass. (we used a cotton swab to apply lime juice more precisely)

  3. Dip glass into salt and sugar mixture and move around gently to ensure coverage to your liking and set aside.

  4. Cut two thin slices of pear, drizzle with a little lime juice and set aside.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add:

    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (2 oz.)

    • Rosemary (2 Sprigs)

    • Simple Syrup (1 oz.)

  2. Muddle for 20-30 seconds. 

  3. Add Remaining ingredients to shaker cup:

    • Pear Juice (3 oz.)

    • Cointreau (1 oz.)

    • Tequila (3 oz.)

    • Ice

  4. Shake well.

  5. Strain into your glass, be careful to not disturb your salt/sugar rim.

  6. Garnish with your pear slice and rosemary sprig. 

  7. Enjoy!

 

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“Stop trying to make everybody happy, you’re not tequila!”
-Anonymous

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands margarita pear margarita tequila https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/5/rosemary-pear-margarita Mon, 03 May 2021 14:45:15 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Grand Empress Gin Fizz https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/4/gin-fizz Hey There!

Today we're sharing a fizz cocktail, probably the best known fizz... the gin fizz. The gin fizz has been around since at least 1876 and is the cousin to the Tom Collins. A sour cocktail with a frothy foam on top sounds like a perfect duo to me. We used Empress 1908 Gin which gives the drink its pigmentation and we used Grand Marnier liqueur for the additional citrus notes. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

GF-IMG_0107GF-IMG_0107   
 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 lemon peel twist/spiral


For Drink
3/4 oz. Simple Syrup
1 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
2 oz. Empress 1908 Gin
1 Egg White
1/4 oz. Grand Marnier

2 oz. Club Soda
Ice

You will also need a rocks tumbler, Collins glass or champagne flute, strainer and a shaker cup.

GF-IMG_0056GF-IMG_0056
 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add:

    • Empress 1908 Gin (2 oz)

    • Simple Syrup (3/4 oz)

    • Grand Marnier (1/4 oz)

    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (1oz)

    • Egg White

  2. Dry Shake (shake without ice) vigorously 20-30 seconds. (​​t​​​his is key for a thick froth)

  3. Add Ice and shake again for another 20-30 seconds.

  4. Strain into your glass and top with club soda.

  5. Add lemon twist garnish. 

  6. Enjoy!

 

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"Flowers don’t worry about how they’re going to bloom. They just open up and turn toward the light and that makes them beautiful."
-Jim Carrey

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) empress 1908 gin gin gin fizz Grand Marnier https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/4/gin-fizz Mon, 26 Apr 2021 14:57:08 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Classic Mojito https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/4/classic-mojito Hey Hey!

Today we're sharing another classic mixed drink hailing from Cuba... the mojito! The history of the mojito is long with some unknowns but what we do know is just about all of the ingredients in the Mojito are indigenous to Cuba. Rum, lime, mint and sugar (the island nation grows sugar cane) are combined in this refreshing cocktail which actually was once used medicinally. Feel free to break out your mixing glass for this or you can skip that step and make it directly in your collins glass like we did! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

  MO-IMG_0518MO-IMG_0518
 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1-2  Bunches of mint leaves
Sugar Cane (cut into 6-10 inch strip) *optional stirrer :)



For Drink
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
3/4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
2 oz. White Rum
2 oz. Club Soda
8-10 Fresh Mint Leaves

You will also need a Collins glass, muddler and a bar spoon.

MO-IMG_0552MO-IMG_0552
 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Take all mint leaves and give them a good slap.

  2. Place the mint directly into your Collins glass  with fresh squeezed lime juice (3/4oz.) and gently muddle.

  3. Add remaining ingredients:

    • Simple syrup (1/2 oz.)

    • Rum (2 oz.)

    • Ice (fill to brim) 

  4. Top with club soda (2oz.) and use bar spoon or sugarcane strip to stir. 

  5. Garnish w/ the sugarcane strip and additional mint leaves

  6. Enjoy!

 

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In wine there is wisdom, in beer there is Freedom, in water there is bacteria. 

-Benjamin Franklin
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) mint mojito rum rum cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/4/classic-mojito Mon, 19 Apr 2021 14:37:52 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Banana Pineapple Daiquiri https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/4/banana-pineapple-daiquiri Hey There!

As the weather gets warmer, the drinks get colder! Today we are sharing something tropical, cold and  sweet. Fun fact: the daiquiri has origins in Cuba. Sometime between 1920 and 1930 the cocktail underwent a transformation into the frozen variety it is today and was known to be a favorite of Ernest Hemingway. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

  BP-IMG_9625BP-IMG_9625
 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 chunks of pineapple
3-4 pineapple leaves (optional)
2 dried pineapple slices (optional)

For Drink
1 oz. Simple Syrup
2 oz. Lime Juice
~ 3/4 Cup Chopped Banana
~ 3/4 Cup Chopped Pineapple
2 oz. Cointreau
4 oz. Banana Rum
2 oz. Pineapple Juice
2 Cup Ice

 

You will also need, 2 coupe glasses and a blender.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Chop up1 banana & chop up your pineapple and set aside (we used fresh fruit but you can definitely use frozen pineapple and banana chunks).

  2. Add everything to you blender:

    • Simple Syrup (1 oz)

    • Lime Juice (2 oz.)

    • 3/4 cup Banana

    • 3/4 cup pineapple

    • Cointreau (2 oz.)

    • Banana Rum (4 oz.)

    • Pineapple Juice (2 oz.)

    • Ice (~ 2 cups)

  3. Run blender until everything is well combined.

  4. Pour equally between 2 coup glasses.

  5. Garnish with pineapple wedge and optional pineapple leaves and dried pineapple.

    • Note: if using pineapple leaves, you may need to skewer with a cocktail pick to keep them in place.

  6. Enjoy!
     

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"There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow men. True nobility lies in being superior to your former self."
-Ernest Hemingway

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) daiquiri frozen drink pineapple rum rum cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/4/banana-pineapple-daiquiri Mon, 12 Apr 2021 17:47:36 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Dream Cloud Nigori Sake Cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/4/dream-cloud It was all a dream.....

...a dream cloud Sake cocktail! This week we are pairing honeydew melon with a Sasanigori Sake. This combination is literally like a cloud! A quick lesson: Sake, the national  beverage of Japan, is made from fermented rice. Sake has many classifications and varieties. Nigori  is one of the styles or classifications of Sake; it translates to "Cloudy Sake".  Sasanigori translates to lightly cloudy. That cloudy-ness refers to how much of the rice particles are suspended in the Sake... so be sure to shake your bottle gently before pouring. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

 乾杯

(kanpai/cheers!)
 

DC-IMG_1295DC-IMG_1295

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 chunks/balls of honeydew or cantaloupe

For Drink
5 oz. Sasanigori Sake
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
3 oz. Chilled Green Tea
~1/2 Cup Chopped Honeydew or Cantaloupe
Ice

 

You will also need, 2 coupe glasses, 2 cocktail picks, shaker cup and a strainer.

DC-IMG_1323-SQDC-IMG_1323-SQ
 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Add your melon & simple syrup (1/2 oz)  into your shaker cup and muddle.

  2. Add remaining ingredients to shaker cup:

    • Green Tea (3 oz)

    • Sasanigori Sake (5 oz) (we used Shirakawago Sasanigori Sake)

    • Ice

  3. Shake vigorously for 20 seconds or so.

  4. Pour evenly between your two coup glasses.

  5. Skewer melon pieces with your cocktail picks to garnish.

  6. Enjoy!
     

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"Vision without action is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare."
-Japanese proverb attributed to Soichiro Honda


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cantaloupe dream cloud honeydew melon nigori sake sake cocktail sasanigori shirakawago https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/4/dream-cloud Mon, 05 Apr 2021 18:01:52 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Dark n Stormy https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/3/dark-stormy Hey There,

Today's recipes was inspired by a comment on one of my social media accounts. I shared a creative photo earlier this month (click here to see) and someone mentioned to me that it ignited a craving for a dark 'n stormy. Immediately, I thought, this is something we  need to create and share! If you are a fan of the Moscow mule and ginger beer, then you need to give this cocktail a try.

Find Ten to One, near you! https://www.tentoonerum.com/where-to-find/
 

We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 1 drink! Let's get started!

DS-IMG_0763DS-IMG_0763

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Lime wedge or slice

For Drink
2 oz. Dark Rum
1/2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (optional)
3-5 oz. Ginger Beer
Ice


You will also need a Highball Glass and a bar spoon.


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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your Highball add

    • Rum (2 oz.)
    • Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice (1/2 oz.)
    • Ice (Fill Glass)
  2. Top with ginger beer (about 3-5 oz).
  3. Stir with bar spoon gently
  4. Garnish with lime wedge/slice
  5. Find somewhere to dream about a caribbean vacation. Enjoy!

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“Alcohol may be man’s worst enemy, but the Bible says love your enemy.”

—Frank Sinatra
 



 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands darkrum ginger beer lime rum https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/3/dark-stormy Mon, 29 Mar 2021 14:14:40 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Boozy Licuado de Nopal (Cactus Smoothie) https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/3/cactus-smoothie Hey There,

Today's recipes was inspired by a recent trip to our local produce market. While looking for a specific ingredient for next week's recipe (stay tuned) these nopales caught our attention. Nopal, which is Spanish for the Opuntia cactus or in English prickly pear cactus; they are found natively in the southwestern regions of the United States and in Mexico. The flat cactus pads can be eaten when the plant is young. Nopal cactus is a common ingredient in foods in some regions of Mexico. Traditionally, licuado de nopal (without alcohol) is a breakfast drink but as per usual we had to do things our way and add a little tequila. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Long Ribbons of Cucumber
2 5 or 6" Slices of Nopal (optional)

 

For Drink
4oz. Coconut Water
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
4 Tbsp. Honey
3 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice 
~ 3/4 Cup Chopped Cactus
1/2 Cup Chopped Cucumber
3 oz. Tequila
1 1/2 oz. Triple Sec
~1 Cup Ice

You will also need, 2 rocks tumblers, 2 cocktail picks and a blender.


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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Add all ingredients to your blender.

    • Note: Be sure to thoroughly clean and de-spine your nopal before dicing and adding to blender.

  2. Blend well, 30-60 seconds or so.

  3. Pour evenly between your two glasses.

  4. Skewer your cucumber ribbons and add your garnish to each glass.

  5. Enjoy! 

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 "Being negative only makes a journey more difficult. You may be given a cactus, but you don't have to sit on it."

- Joyce Meyer

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands cactus smoothie nopal smoothie tequila https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/3/cactus-smoothie Mon, 22 Mar 2021 16:23:33 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Guava Basil Smash https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/3/guava-basil-smash Hey There!

This weekend, we had the pleasure of being a guest mixologist for Chef Jamie Hunt's virtual supper club, an innovative approach to cooking classes during lock down! We shared tips, tricks and how to make this refreshing Guava Basil Smash with the 40+ attendees. Such fun night of cooking, sipping and playing games. We cannot wait for the next one! We enjoyed this cocktail so much we decided to make it again and share it with you all! The guava definitely gives me strong summer vacation vibes!! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2-4 Bunches of Basil

2 Slices of Lemon


For Drink
8-14 Basil Leaves
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
4 oz. Vodka
6 oz. Guava Juice
2 oz. Simple Syrup
8 Dashes of Bitters
Ice

 

You will also need 2 Rocks Tumblers, Bar Spoon, Muddler, Julep Strainer, Mixing Glass and Juicer.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In Mixing Glass Add:
    • Basil Leaves
    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (2 oz.)
  2. Muddle for 10 seconds or so
  3. Add remaining ingredients to Mixing  Glass:
    • Ice
    • Guava Juice (6 oz.)
    • 8 Dashes of Bitters
    • Vodka (4 oz.)
    • Simple Syrup (2 oz.)
  4. Stir with Bar Spoon
  5. Using your Julep Strainer, strain between your two glasses.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil bunches and lemon slice.
  7. Enjoy!

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“One must maintain a little bit of summer, even in the middle of winter.”

– Henry David Thoreau
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) basil smash smash cocktail vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/3/guava-basil-smash Mon, 15 Mar 2021 15:49:10 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Blood Orange Screw Driver https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/3/screwdriver Hey Hey,

How many mixologists does it take to screw in a screwdriver? One.... I think... lol According to author Victorino Matus, the screwdriver was one the first vodka based cocktails created decades ago. "American oil workers in the Persian Gulf discreetly added vodka to their orange juice while on the job. Lacking a spoon, the workers decided to stir the drink with a screwdriver." Seems like a good drink for a Monday. Our version, uses blood oranges and.... a spoon. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

BSD-IMG_9659BSD-IMG_9659

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2-4 Blood Orange Slices (fresh and dehydrated)

(we dehydrated our slices in the air fryer for 45 min - 1 hour on the lowest setting)


For Drink

4 oz. Vodka
7 oz. Fresh Squeezed Blood Orange Juice
1 oz. Simple Syrup
Pinch of Salt
Ice

 

You will also need, 2 Collins Glasses, Bar Spoon, Mixing Glass,  Juicer.

BSD-IMG_9597BSD-IMG_9597

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In Mixing Glass Add:
    • Vodka (4 oz.)
    • Blood Orange Juice (7 oz.)
    • Simple Syrup (1 oz.)
    • Pinch of Salt
  2. Stir with bar spoon
  3. Fill your Collins glasses with ice
  4. Optional: Place fresh blood orange slice inside each glass.
  5. Pour your Screwdriver evenly between both glasses.
  6. Garnish with fresh or dehydrated blood orange slice.
  7. Enjoy!

 

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"I read the instruction manual and it said I needed a large screwdriver. So I got out the vodka and orange juice , but everything after that remains a mystery!"


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) blood orange screwdriver vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/3/screwdriver Mon, 08 Mar 2021 14:44:26 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Botanical Gimlet https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/3/gimlet Hey Hey,

This week's recipe is our variation on the classic gimlet... simple and refreshing. The gimlet is a cocktail made of gin and lime juice. A 1928 description of the drink was: "gin, and a spot of lime." In addition to using a botanical gin, we opted to include muddled mint and thyme for even more freshness. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

GM-IMG_3254GM-IMG_3254

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Lime Slices
2 Edible Flowers

 

For Drink

6 oz. Botanical Gin
1 1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
3 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
8-10 Mint Leaves
2-4 Sprigs of Thyme
Ice

 

You will also need, 2 Coup Glasses, Muddler, Shaker Cup, Fine Mesh Strainer, Julep Strainer,  Hand Juicer.

GM-IMG_3127GM-IMG_3127

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In Shaker Cup Add:
    • Mint Leaves
    • Thyme Leaves
    • Simple Syrup (1 1/2 oz.)
  2. Muddle for 10 seconds or so.
  3. Add Remaining components:
    • Ice
    • Lime Juice (3 oz.)
    • Gin (6 oz.)
  4. Shake 15-20 seconds
  5. Double strain using julep strainer and fine mesh strainer between 2 coup glasses.
  6. Garnish with lime slice and edible flower.
  7. Find a relaxing place to luxuriate while you sip.
  8. Enjoy!

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To the question, "When were your spirits at the lowest ebb?" the obvious answer seemed to be, "When the gin gave out."

-Francis Chichester


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) botanical gin floral gimlet gin lime https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/3/gimlet Mon, 01 Mar 2021 20:23:28 GMT
Quick and Savory Naan-like Flatbread https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/quick-and-savory-flatbread Hey hey!

So I'm absolutely 100% a carb-ivore and my love language is bread and potatoes. This naan like savory flatbread is so quick and easy to throw together-- it requires no yeast and only about 2 minutes of kneading. They're perfect as they are but could also be an amazing base for a pizza or a sandwich. Give it a try! 

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Here's What You Need:

  • 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1  1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped herbs ( I used fresh chives, basil, parsley and oregano)

You'll also need high heat cooking oil (coconut, peanut, canola etc), rolling pin, one large mixing bowl, wooden spoon, cast iron skillet, wire rack, parchment paper.

 

Timing:

  • Prep: 20 min
  • Cook: 16 min

 

Let's Make Some Flatbread:

  1. DOUGH PREP: In a large mixing bowl, mix all of the dry ingredients: flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir in chopped herbs. Then lastly add in yogurt and stir until a clumpy dough forms.  Place dough onto floured surface and knead for 2 minutes. Divide dough into 6-8 pieces and roll into balls. Using your rolling pin flatten into 5-6 inch circles.
  2. COOK: Add about 2 tbsp of cooking oil to your cast iron skillet and heat over medium to high heat. Place  1-2 flatbreads in your skillet at a time (depending on your skillet size) and cook until puffy and golden brown in places. Flip and repeat. Cook time is approximately 1 minute each side. Remove from skillet and place on wire rack. Serve warm and enjoy!

If you happen to have left overs ( I didn't), wrap in foil and store at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) baking bread bread making bread recipe cooking with nikki easy bread flatbread homemade naan no yeast bread recipe vegetarian https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/quick-and-savory-flatbread Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:55:29 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Hella Good Japanese Whiskey Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/japanese-whiskey-sour Hey There,

All month we have been sharing black owned brands and today, on the last Monday in Black History Month, we are sharing a cocktail using Shinju, a Japanese Whiskey. Shinju is “double distilled, with wafts of honey, orange and vanilla, accompanied by hints of herbaceous notes and light oak." In a word, this whiskey is delicate and I am in love! We paired this  award winning whiskey with two types of mangoes along with a black co-owned bitters brand Hella Cocktail Co. 

Find Shinju, near you! https://www.shinjuwhisky.com/
Find Hella Cocktail Co., near you! https://hellacocktail.co/pages/find-it

Although BHM is ending we will be keeping this party going and will continue to share Black Owned brands and let you know where to grab them! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

JWS-IMG_2716JWS-IMG_2716

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
4-6 Thin Half moon mango slices(skin on)

 

For Mango Simple Syrup
1 Cup Granulated Sugar
2 Cups Water
2 Mangoes ( we used both Honey/Ataulfo and Tommy Atkins variety of mango)

 

For Drink
 3 oz. Shinju Japanese Whiskey
 2 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
 2 oz. Mango Simple Syrup
 2-4 Dashes Hella Cocktail Co. Ginger Bitters
 Egg Whites from 1 Large Egg 

You will also need, 2 Whiskey Glasses, Shakercup, Hawthorne Strainer, Pairing Knife, Fine Mesh Strainer, large saucepan, colander, 2 cocktail picks and ice.
 

Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. Thinly slice mango until you have 4-6 slices (we used a mandolin)
  2. Lay out 2-3 slices with ends overlapping and begin tightly rolling to create your rose.
  3. Skewer with cocktail pick and set aside.
  4. Repeat to create your second garnish.

JWS-IMG_2706JWS-IMG_2706

Let's Make the Simple Syrup!

  1. Cut up mangoes (skin on) into cubes and add to sauce pan.
  2. Add water & sugar to large sauce pan over medium heat.
  3. Let simmer for 1/2 hour.
  4. Let cool then strain into mason jar and set aside.

Note: Don’t throw away those cooked mangoes. You could mash them for a tasty spread, use them as a filling in a puff pastry, or enjoy them plain as a sweet snack.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker add:
    • Lemon Juice (2 oz)
    • Egg Whites
    • Bitters (2-4 Dashes)
  2. Dry Shake (i.e., w/o Ice) vigorously for 30 seconds.
  3. Add to shaker cup:
    • Ice
    • Shinju Whiskey (3 oz)
    • Mango Simple Syrup (2oz)
  4. Shake vigorously for an additional 30 seconds.
  5. Strain equally into 2 Coupe glasses.
  6. Spoon any additional froth left in your shaker cup on top of drink.
  7. Add your mango rose garnish.
  8. Enjoy!

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“He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.” 
—Muhammad Ali


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands japanese whiskey mango whiskey whiskey sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/japanese-whiskey-sour Mon, 22 Feb 2021 19:41:13 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Indoggo Dragon Fruit Martini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/indoggo-dragon Hey There,

Continuing with our theme for sharing black owned/founded brands for Black History month, today we are sharing a cocktail using Indoggo, a strawberry infused gin created by the "Gin & Juice King", Calvin Broadus better known as Snoop Dogg. This "laidback California style" gin is refreshingly smooth and we paired it with a dragon fruit (pitaya) simple syrup. If you're looking for a low calorie, sugar free, gluten free gin, we highly recommend.

Find Indoggo, near you! https://indoggogin.com/buy/

All month we will be sharing our cocktail recipes made with black owned brands paired with unexpected or strange fruit. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's drop it like it's hot!

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Here's what you need:

For Simple Syrup
1 Whole dragon fruit
1 1/2 cup water
1 1/2 cup sugar

1 tsp fresh grated ginger

For Garnish
2 Dragon fruit slices skin on)
 

For Drink
6 oz. Indoggo Gin
3 oz. Dragon Fruit Simple Syrup
3 oz. Fresh squeezed lime juice

 

You will also need, Large Sauce Pan, Colander, 2 Coup/Martini Glasses, Shaker Cup, Pairing Knife, Fine Mesh Strainer, 2 cocktail picks and ice.

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Let's Make the Simple Syrup!

  1. Add water & sugar ( 1 1/2 cup each) to large sauce pan over medium heat.
  2. Grate and add1 tsp. ginger to sauce pan.
  3. Cut up dragon fruit into cubes and add to sauce pan.
  4. Let simmer for 1/2 hour.
  5. Let cool then strain into mason jar and set aside.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker cup add:
    • Ice
    • Gin (6 oz.)
    • Lime Juice (3 oz.)
    • Simple Syrup (3 oz.)
  2. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
  3. Pour evenly between two coup/martini glasses.
  4. Garnish with dragon fruit slice skewered with a cocktail pick.
  5. Lay back, sip slow and enjoy!

 

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“The best advice I've ever got is to be yourself. Stay true to who you are and what you stand for and you'll go far in life.” 
—Calvin "Snoop Dogg" Broadus

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands dragon fruit gin indoggo pitaya https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/indoggo-dragon Mon, 15 Feb 2021 16:43:36 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Mint Blueberry Kiwi-tini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/kiwitini Hey There,

Continuing with our theme for sharing black owned/founded brands for Black History month, today we are sharing a cocktail using 44º North Vodka. 44º North was founded by Ken Wyatt and Ron Zier in 2004, and was "designed to showcase Idaho agriculture and American craft distilling at its finest. The brand aims to create the “purest vodka possible” using 100% Idaho potatoes of Brundage winter wheat blended with Rocky Mountain Spring Water." We used their Mountain Huckleberry flavored vodka to pair with kiwi, mint leaves and blueberry and I have to say this is now my favorite cocktail!

Find 44º North, near you! https://44northvodka.com/#!/find

All month we will be sharing our cocktail recipes made with black owned brands paired with unexpected or strange fruit. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Kiwi slices(skin on)
2-4 Bunches on mint leaves
6 Blueberries (3 to a cocktail pick)

 

For Drink
3 oz. 44º North Vodka (Mountain Huckleberry flavor)
2.5 oz. Midori
1.5 oz. Simple Syrup
1 oz. Fresh squeezed lime juice
8-10 Mint leaves

2-4 oz. Tonic water
 

You will also need, 2 Coup/Martini Glasses, Shakercup, Hawthorne Strainer, Pairing Knife, Fine Mesh Strainer, Muddler, Mixing Glass, 2 cocktail picks and ice.

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Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. Set aside 2-4 bunches of mint leaves.
  2. Skewer 3 blue berries onto a cocktail pick and set aside.
  3. Create 2 think slices of kiwi, make a small slit from center of kiwi to the end and set aside with your blueberries and mint leaves.

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your mixing glass add and muddle:
    • 1 Peeled and sliced kiwi
    • Lime Juice (1 oz.)
    • Simple Syrup (1.5 oz.)
    • Mint Leaves (8-10)
  2.  In separate shaker cup add:
    • Ice
    • Midori (2.5 oz.)
    • Vodka (3 oz.)
    • Muddled mixture above
  3. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
  4. Using your hawthorne strainer and fine mesh strainer, double strain evenly between two coup/martini glasses.
  5. Top with tonic water.
  6. Garnish with your mint leaves, kiwi slices and blueberries.
  7. Sip slow and enjoy!

 

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“Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome while trying to succeed.” 
—Booker T. Washington

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands kiwi lime midori mint leaves vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/kiwitini Mon, 08 Feb 2021 19:12:50 GMT
Elote (Mexican Street Corn) Inspired Air Fryer Corn Ribs https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/corn-ribs Hey Hey!

I'm really excited about this recipe. These "ribs" were so easy to make and sooo delicious. If you're looking for an addition to Meatless Mondays, or something light to snack on instead of junk food or maybe you're craving Mexican street corn and want yet another reason to bring out the air fryer, look no further! Let's turn some ordinary corn cobs into a yummy work of art! I hope you enjoy! If you make this, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

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Here's What You Need:

  • 4-5 Corn Cobs
  • 4 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 1/2 tsp Garlic & Herb Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika
  • 1/4 tsp Salt
  • Half of one Lime
  • Several Bunches of Cilantro (Freshly Chopped)
  • Grated Cotija Cheese

You'll also need one large mixing bowl, a sharp knife and an air fryer (although you could use a standard oven).

Timing:

  • Prep: 20-30 min
  • Cook: 10-12 min

Let's Make Some Corn Ribs:

  1. Let's get the hardest part of the recipe out of the way! Start by cleaning and removing the husk of the corn cob. Cut the base so that it stands upright and level, then carefully slice from the top down to halve the cob lengthways.  Repeat the process with each half until you have quartered each cob. Take your time, don't rush and be mindful of your fingers. I believe in you.
    • corn1corn1 corn2corn2 corn3corn3
  2. Set your ribs aside in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Next, let's make the marinade. In a small bowl add and mix well:
    • 4 tbsp Olive Oil
    • 1 1/2 tsp Garlic & Herb Powder
    • 1/2 tsp Chili Powder
    • 1/2 tsp Pepper
    • 1/2 tsp Paprika
    • 1/4 tsp Salt
  4. Pour this mixture over your "ribs" and ensure every nook and cranny gets coated.
  5. In small batches add your ribs to your airfryer (don't pile them all in). Cook for 10-12 min at 390º to 400º. Flipping periodically.
  6. You will know they are done when the cob starts to curl and the corn gets a little charred.
  7. Place your ribs back in your mixing bowl when done (clean the one you used earlier while you wait).
  8. Squeeze half of a lime all over your ribs and sprinkle your cotija cheese and chopped cilantro generously.
  9. Plate and take a picture for the 'gram.
  10. Grab a napkin and dig in!
  11. Enjoy!!

 


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cooking with nikki corn corn ribs elote finger food food photography low carb mexican street corn recipe snack vegetarian veggies https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/corn-ribs Thu, 04 Feb 2021 02:53:59 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Spiced Pear Whiskey Cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/spiced-pear-whiskey-cocktail Hey There,

Today, on the first day of February, and the first day of Black History month we are sharing a recipe using small batch whiskey, Uncle Nearest.

Brief History Lesson: "More than one hundred and sixty years ago, in the hills above Lynchburg in Tennessee, there was a farm owned by a young preacher man called Dan Call that still stands today. Reverend Call had a side hustle down the road on his farm: a small whiskey distillery, which made a silky smooth, maple-sweet whiskey that was highly regarded by all that tasted it. The man who distilled the whiskey was a black slave named Nathan "Nearest" Green, known affectionately as Uncle Nearest,  and is hailed as the best whiskey maker, the world never knew."

"He brought with him a special technique of charcoal filtering that he had learned when cleaning water in West Africa. This method of filtering whiskey through sugar maple tree charcoal became known as the famous ‘Lincoln method’ and it’s still used today.

At some time in the 1850s, a young white boy came to Reverend Call asking for work. The Reverend took him on and gave him chores but the boy became increasingly fascinated by what was going on down the road at the distillery. Eventually, after begging his master, the boy, named Jasper, was introduced to Nathan ‘Uncle Nearest’ Green, who was told to teach him what he knew. A natural entrepreneur, Jasper so believed in this whiskey that he started selling it as far and wide as he could. 

December 6th 1865 came around and the thirteenth amendment was finally passed. Uncle Nearest was a free man. Not long after, Jasper bought the distillery and named it after himself, though he didn’t use his given name; he preferred what the locals called him: not Jasper Daniel, but Jack Daniel. He asked Nathan to be his very first master distiller, a position which he happily accepted. The men worked together until Nathan retired.

Nathan’s story was lost for a long time. We can only imagine why. However, a new distillery was built just down the road from Jack Daniel’s, where Nathan’s descendents work today. Quite rightly, it was named after the man who turned out to be the true founding father of Tennessee Whiskey: Nathan Green. Uncle Nearest. Both distilleries still enjoy a warm bond formed by their shared histories." (Read more: https://www.thethreedrinkers.com/magazine-content/uncle-nearest-founding-father-tennessee-whiskey)

Find Uncle Nearest, near you! https://unclenearest.com/store-locator/

All month we will be sharing our cocktail recipes made with black owned brands paired with unexpected or strange fruit. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish (Coral Tuile)
High temperature cooking oil 
10g (about 1 heaping tbsp) All purpose flour
5g (about 1 heaping tsp) sugar
70g water
Optional: Edible Gold Dust and Small Brush

For Drink
3.5 oz. Uncle Nearest Whiskey
1.5 oz. Amaro
2.5 oz. Spiced Pear Simple Syrup
2-4 Dashes Orange Bitters
1-2 Small Wedges of Lemon

Ice

For  Spice Pear Simple Syrup
3/4 Cup Brown Sugar
1/2 Vanilla Bean
1 Large Pear
1 Cinnamon Stick
2-3 Sprigs of Thyme
3/4 - 1 Cup Water

 

You will also need, 2 Coup/Martini Glasses, Shaker, Hawthorne Strainer, Pairing Knife, Fine Mesh Strainer, Mixing Glass, Small Sealable Glass Jar (or Container), Small Sauce Pan, small skillet, squeeze bottle and spatula.

 

Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. Add your cooking oil to the small skillet. You should have enough to complete cover the bottom plus a little extra. Heat over Low/Medium Heat
  2. Combine Water, Flour and Sugar. Whisk until fully combined. Consistency should be very loose.
  3. Pour mixture into your squeeze bottle or whatever you will pour from. (A Squeeze Bottle was easiest to use)
  4. Once the pan is hot, and just before the oil begins to really sizzle, pour (or squeeze) a thin layer of your cookie mix into the pan. Caution: THE OIL WILL SPLATTER. I recommend using a mesh splatter shield or pot lid to avoid getting hit with hot oil. You can either coat the entire bottom of the pan or pour in small batches.
  5. Now we wait. You will see the cookie bubble for quite some time. You want to allow it to cook until the bubbles subside some. Making sure the cookie doesn't begin to burn.
  6. Once it looks done, remove from heat and allow to sit for a minute or two.
  7. Gently using a spatula work up the edges of the tuile. Be very careful when removing as the cookie cools it becomes even more delicate.
  8. Allow your tuile to drain and cool for several hours before dusting with edible gold dust using as garnish. 
  9. This process can be tricky and you may need to adjust the ratios or ingredients to get the cookie right.

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Let's Make the Pear Spiced Simple Syrup!

  1. Slice pair into 1 inch cubes and place in sauce pan.
  2. Add sugar, water, vanilla bean, thyme, & cinnamon to the sauce pan
  3. Reduce over low to medium low heat for about 25 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and let’s settle for five minutes.
  5. Double strain in your glass jar using your mixing glass and fine mesh strainer. 

Note: Don’t throw away those cooked pears... snack on those later. :)

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your shaker add:
    • Ice,
    • Bitters (2-4 dashes)
    • Amaro (1.5 oz)
    • Spiced Pear Simple Syrup (2.5 oz)
    • Uncle Nearest Whiskey (3.5oz)
  2. Shake vigorously for 15 to 20 seconds & pour equally into 2 glasses
  3. Gently squeeze lemon wedge over at the drink and caress the rim of the glass.
  4. Place your garnish coral tuile along with a sprig of thyme carefully and enjoy!

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"Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations."
—Dr. Mae Jemison, first African-American female astronaut

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands jack daniels lime pear Tennessee whiskey uncle nearest https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/2/spiced-pear-whiskey-cocktail Tue, 02 Feb 2021 01:09:31 GMT
Easy Peasy No Knead Dutch Oven Bread https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/no-knead-dutch-oven-bread Hey hey!

Recently I was sent a link to A Pinch of Yum's No Knead Bread recipe and knew I wanted to try it out and of course take pix! The hardest part of this 3 step, 4 ingredient recipe was waiting the 12-18 hours for the instant yeast to work. Not only was this super easy to make, the bread was actually really really good --the whole loaf only lasted a few hours in this house. That just means I have to make more!! I've shared those pix along with a copy of the recipe below. Enjoy!

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Here's What You Need:

  • 3 cups all purpose flour
  • 1  1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp instant yeast
  • 1  1/2 cups room temp. water

You'll also need one large mixing bowl, whisk, wooden spoon, oven safe cast iron dutch oven as well as plastic wrap & parchment paper.

 

Timing:

  • Prep: 12-18 hours
  • Cook: 40 min

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Let's Make Some Bread:

  1. DOUGH PREP: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the flour, salt, and yeast together until mixed. Stir in the water until a chunky, thick dough forms. If it needs a little more water, add a few more tablespoons, just enough to get it barely wet throughout. It should be kinda dry and scrappy looking. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest for 12-18 hours at room temperature. 
  2. PREP FOR BAKING: When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 450. Stick a 5-6 quart enamel coated cast iron Dutch Oven (or similar) in the oven for about 30 minutes to heat. At this point, the dough should be big and puffy and pretty loose, with little bubbles in it. Gently scrape the dough out onto a well-floured surface. Gently shape it into a ball with flour on the outside, set on a piece of parchment, and cover with plastic while your pan heats up. 
  3. BAKE: Remove the plastic from the dough. Lift the dough and parchment together into the pan so the parchment lines the bottom of the hot pan (be careful not to touch the pan since it’s very hot). Bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove the cover and bake another 10-15 minutes to get the exterior nice and golden brown and crispy. Voila! Done.

This bread would be perfectly paired with any jam, I actually used apple butter. *chef's kiss* Or, better yet, you could dunk this into a piping hot bowl of butternut squash soup, recipe here! Enjoy!

For more details and variations of this recipe visit: A Pinch of Yum


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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) baking bread bread making bread recipe cooking with nikki easy bread homemade bread no knead bread recipe https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/no-knead-dutch-oven-bread Tue, 26 Jan 2021 15:45:27 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Teremana Apple Tequini (TAT) https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/teremana-apple-tequini Hey There,

Today, we are sharing a recipe using Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's handmade, small batch tequila, Teremana crafted in Jalisco, Mexico. Teremana comes in two varieties, Blanco and Reposado. We opted to use the latter, Resposado for its oak and vanilla notes. We combined, apple and cinnamon in this unique martini like drink which we are calling the TAT or Teremana Apple Tequini. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get tatted!!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
4-6 Thin Apple Slices
2 Cinnamon Sticks

 

For Drink
3 oz. Teremana Tequila (Reposado)
4 oz. Apple Cider
1.5 oz. Dry Vermouth
1/4 tsp Vanilla Extract

2-4 Dashes Herbal Bitters

1/2 Lemon
Ice

You will also need, 2 Martini Glasses (for Neat) OR 2 Rocks Tumblers (for on the “Rock”), Shaker, Hawthorne Strainer, Pairing Knife, Fine Mesh Strainer.

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Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. Quarter and slice apple to thin strips.
  2. Cut lemon in half and squeeze over apple strips and set aside with cinnamon sticks

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In shaker cup add:
    • Ice
    • 2-4 Dashes of bitters
    • Vanilla Extract (1/4 tsp)
    • Vermouth (1.5 oz)
    • Apple Cider (4 oz)
    • Tequila (3 oz)
  2. Shake 15-30 sec.
  3. Using Hawthorne Strainer, strain equally into 2 glasses (Note: We are using custom Martini Tumblers for an “on-the-rocks” option)
  4. Garnish w/ Apple Slices & Cinnamon Stick (Note: You may substitute a cinnamon stick with a dash or two of ground cinnamon.)
  5. Enjoy!

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"Success isn’t overnight. It’s when everyday you get a little better than the day before. It all adds up."  

-Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black owned brands lime reposado tequila tequila cocktail tequini teremana vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/teremana-apple-tequini Mon, 25 Jan 2021 20:31:05 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Berry Moscow Mule https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/berry-moscow-mule Hey Hey,

This week's recipe is our variation on the classic and delightfully refreshing Moscow Mule. I love everything about this cocktail from the fresh and frozen berries to the bite of the ginger beer. So let's break out the copper mugs, which are a must. Copper is a superior thermal conductor, so copper mugs respond to the temperature of what is inside, keeping it chilled or warm depending on the beverage. When containing a Moscow mule, copper mugs become super chill, like you soon will be after your first or second sip. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

 

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
6 Berries (your choice of raspberry and/or blackberry)
2 Bunches of Sage

2 Cocktail Picks

For Drink

4 oz. Vodka
4 oz. Ginger Beer
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
Fresh Ginger Root
6-8 Sage Leaves
5-6 Blackberries
5-6 Raspberries
Ice

 

You will also need, 2 Copper Mule Mugs, Muddler, Shaker, Zester (or Fine Grater), Peeler, Fine Mesh Strainer, Hand Juicer

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Let's Make the Garnish!

This particular garnish needs to prepped hours in advance.

  1. Skewer three berries on each cocktail pick. 
  2. Set aside in freezer (I suggest placing in a small sealed container before placing in freezer).
  3. The sage garnish does need to be frozen but should be set aside in the refrigerator.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Peel & zest about 1/2 tsp. Ginger into Shaker cup. 
  2. Add 6-8 Sage leaves to Shaker 
  3. Add Remaining Berries to Shaker
  4. Muddle for 10 seconds or so
  5. Add Ice
  6. Juice lime into Shaker (~2 oz. Juice)
  7. Add Vodka & Shake
  8. Strain w/ Fine Mesh Strainer into ice filled Mule mugs
  9. Top with Ginger Beer.
  10. Grab your berry skewers from the freezer and add to mug along with sage leaves for garnish
  11. Enjoy!

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"Once we hit forty, women only have about four taste buds left: one for vodka, one for wine, one for cheese, and one for chocolate."  

-Gina Barreca


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) ginger beer moscow mule sage vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/berry-moscow-mule Mon, 18 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT
Roasted Sage & Garlic Butternut Squash Crock-Pot Soup https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/roasted-butternut-squash-soup Hey There!

So, on the "About" page here on my site (yes I know you probably did not read it...it's ok) I glossed over the fact that I am a pro level bodybuilder. I have a separate website dedicated to health and fitness and I love sharing tips and recipes there and on Instagram. I originally shared this recipe on my site about 2 years ago. This is one of my favorite crock-pot recipes... so I decided to revisit this and re-shoot the images.  I hope you enjoy! 

 

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Here's What You Need:

  • Butternut Squash (2 medium size)
  • Onion (1 medium size)
  • Seasoning: Garlic (1 bulb minced/diced), Sage (15-20 leaves), Salt (1-2 teaspoons), Pepper (1 teaspoon)
  • Low Sodium Vegetable Broth (4 cups/ 1 carton)
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil (1-2 tablespoons)
  • Garnish of choice, crème fraîche, nuts/seeds, croutons, herbs etc...

You'll also need a crock-pot and a handheld immersion blender, or standard blender 

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TIMING:

Prep: 30-40 minutes
Cook: 6 hours

Total Time: approx 6.5 -7 hours

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LET’S COOK!

Ok, Ok I know you may be thinking, this is a crock-pot recipe let’s just dump everything in– set it and forget it. We will get to that part but just bear with me for a few minutes. There are two steps we will do first that will help bring that extra depth of flavor that feels like comfort in a bowl. 

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  1. Peel, De-gut and Dice Butternut Squash.  
    • Pro Tip for Peeling Squash: Use a fork to poke holes in the squash all over; microwave for about 3-4 minutes.
  2.  Set oven to broil. 
  3. Take about 1/4  to 1/3 of your diced butternut squash and place on baking sheet, spray light coat of olive oil and season with ground pepper.
  4. Broil Squash until brown with some black char marks (trust me) approx 15 min.
  5. Dice onion and garlic.
  6. Sauté onion in olive oil for a few minutes until soft, then add garlic.
  7. Let Onion and Garlic simmer until toasty brown, then remove from heat.
  8. Dice Sage leaves.
  9. The squash in the oven should be done now; remove from oven. 
  10. Now we’re ready for the crock-pot! Add the uncooked squash to the crock-pot first, then broiled squash, onions and garlic, sage, salt and vegetable broth.
  11. Set crock-pot on low and let it do it’s thing for approx 6 hours.
  12. When the squash is ready, it will be incredible soft and will fall apart easily.
  13. Use an immersion blender to blend everything. (Or transfer to a blender carefully-- this will be super hot).  Blend as little or as much as you like. (I like mine a little chunky)
  14. Make a bowl, garnish... (I used crème fraîche and roasted sunflower and pumpkin seeds).
  15. Take a picture for Instagram (tag me---> @staynfocusimages).
  16. Enjoy!

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) butternut squash butternut squash soup cooking cooking with nikki crockpot crock-pot crockpot creations food photography garlic one pot creation onion recipe sage savory soup vegan vegetarian winter soup https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/roasted-butternut-squash-soup Sat, 16 Jan 2021 21:28:04 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Momento Mori https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/momento-mori Hey Hey,

This week’s original cocktail is our take on a fictional martini-like beverage featured in “Death Parade”, a popular anime series released in 2015. That series explored the afterlife and judgement of ones worthiness for reincarnation. The “Momento Mori” is a cocktail with an explicit reminder to be mindful of our pending death and an implicit mandate to be appreciative of life. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

MM-IMG_1744MM-IMG_1744

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Bourbon Cherries
1 Orange (to peel)

 

For Drink
3 oz. Gin (Bombay Sapphire)
2 oz. Blue Curaçao
1.5 oz. Dry Vermouth 
2 Dashes Herbal Bitters
Ice

You will also need, 2 martini glasses, a citrus peeler and a shaker cup.


Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Place one bourbon cherry in each martini glasses. Set aside.
  2. In shaker cup add:
    • Ice
    • Gin (3 oz.)
    • Vermouth (1.5 oz.)
    • Blue Curaçao (2 oz.)
    • Herbal Bitters (2 Dashes)
  3. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
  4. Pour equally between both martini glasses.
  5. Grab your orange and a peeler. Peel a 3-4 inch strip and express (twist) over each glass.
  6. Take time to enjoy while playing a friendly game and contemplating the meaning of life.

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"I don't regret the things I've done... I regret the things I didn't do when I had the chance."

-unknown

 


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) blue curacao gin momento mori https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/momento-mori Mon, 11 Jan 2021 17:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Elevated Fuzzy Navel https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/elevated-fuzzy-navel Hey There,

Traditionally, a fuzzy navel cocktail is a mixed drink made from peach schnapps and orange juice. This classic was created by Ray Foley, who stumbled across this combination in the 80s.  If you add 1 oz Vodka, it is then called a hairy navel, and the more vodka you add the hairier it gets!! We didn't like that name so much, so we named our version which includes an additional twist, the elevated fuzzy navel. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This makes 2 drinks! Let's get started!

FN-IMG_0408FN-IMG_0408

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Orange Slices
2 Small Bunches of Mint Leaves

 

For Drink
5-7 Oranges (blood oranges can be used)
2 Tsp. Peach Preserves
1 oz. Handcrafted Vodka 
3 oz. Peach Schnapps
10 Mint Leaves
Ice

 

You will also need, 2 rocks tumblers, a citrus juicer, muddler, mixing glass, hawthorne strainer and bar spoon.

 

Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. Cut 2 medium sized, round orange slices.
  2. Cut an additional slice in the middle of each round slice but only about halfway down.
  3. Make one last cut perpendicular to the slice you just made.
  4. Grab each piece from the cut you just made and twist in opposite directions.
  5. Set aside along with 2 small bunches of mint leaves.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Juice all oranges you have set aside. You'll need about 8 oz.
  2. In mixing glass add:
    • Peach Preserves (2 tsp.)
    • Mint Leave (10 leaves or so)
    • Vodka (1 oz.)
  3. Muddle mixture for 10 seconds or so.
  4. Add ice
  5. Add peach schnapps
  6. Stir with bar spoon
  7. Add Ice to your rocks tumblers and pour mixture evenly between both glasses.
  8. Top with orange juice.
  9. Add the garnishes you set aside earlier.
  10. Enjoy!

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Orange juice is like duct tape; it fixes everything."

-unknown
 


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) fuzzy navel hair fuzzy navel orange peach peach schnapps https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2021/1/elevated-fuzzy-navel Mon, 04 Jan 2021 17:30:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Strawberry Pomegranate Bellini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/12/Strawberry-Pomegranate-Bellini Hey There,

Lets do our best to not dwell on the tragedies of 2020 and instead, lets be optimistic and look at 2021 with Rosé colored glasses. Today we share a champagne cocktail perfect for toasting the new year. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 4 drinks! Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Drink
6 Strawberries
1 Tbsp. Pomegranate Arils
6 oz. Grand Marnier
4 Tsps. Local Honey
1 Bottle Rose Champagne

 

You will also need, an immersion blender and champagne flutes.

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Half 2 Strawberries & place slit in each piece & set aside for garnish
  2. Cut remaining Strawberries into small pieces & set aside.
  3. Place Strawberries, Honey, Pomegranate Arils, & Grand Marnier into blender safe cup & blend with immersion blender until smooth.
  4. Pour mixture evenly into champagne flutes
  5. Top with Rose Champagne (Note: You’ll have to pour champagne slowly to avoid the glass overfilling with bubbly.)
  6. Garnish with Strawberry halves and toast to the new year!

CB-IMG_9837CB-IMG_9837 CB-IMG_9842CB-IMG_9842 CB-IMG_9854CB-IMG_9854 CB-IMG_9863CB-IMG_9863 CB-IMG_9865CB-IMG_9865 CB-IMG_9872CB-IMG_9872 CB-IMG_9877CB-IMG_9877 CB-IMG_9887CB-IMG_9887 CB-IMG_9889CB-IMG_9889 CB-IMG_9890CB-IMG_9890 CB-IMG_9895CB-IMG_9895


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""Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year."

-Ralph Waldo Emerson
 


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bellini champagne pomegranate recipe strawberry https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/12/Strawberry-Pomegranate-Bellini Tue, 29 Dec 2020 00:27:53 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Boozy Hot Chocolate https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/12/boozy-hot-chocolate Hey hey,

If you find yourself on the naughty list this year, you might want to make note of this recipe. I personally guarantee if you leave this out for Santa, he  will have to add you to the "nice" list... or heck, he may forget he had any lists to begin with! Don't forget to make one of these decadent treats for yourself... the Christmas tree and fireplace aren't the only things getting lit this week! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 2-4 drinks (depending on size of your mugs). Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Drink
3 Cups Whole Milk
6 oz. Heavy Cream
2 oz. Amaretto
6oz. Bourbon
1 Orange
1 Cinnamon Stick
1tsp. Vanilla Extract
6 oz. Semi Sweet Chocolate
2 oz. Orange Dark Chocolate
Whipped Cream

 

You will also need, 2 medium-large sauce pans, large stirring spoon, colander/strainer, citrus zester and  heat safe mugs. 

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Zest orange and break chocolate into small chunks and set aside.
    • Set aside some smaller shavings/chunks for the garnish.
  2. In large sauce pan add milk, cinnamon, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
  3. Heat on the lowest setting for 5 to 10 minutes. [Note: You do not want to cook or scorch the milk, only warm it.]
  4. Stir in your chocolates and continue to heat until melted to an even consistency. 
  5. Stir in your Bourbon (6oz.) and Amaretto (2oz.)
  6.  Heat for an additional 2 to 5 minutes. (Note: the longer you heat your alcohol the more it will burn off. So, you do not want to leave it on heat for very long.)
  7. Strain into second saucepan to remove orange zest and cinnamon.
  8. Pour into your mugs.
  9. Top w/ whipped cream and extra chocolate pieces or shavings.
  10. Find somewhere cozy to sit.
  11. Enjoy!!

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"Hot chocolate is like a hug from the inside."
-unknown


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) amaretto boozy hot chocolate bourbon bourbon cocktail hot chocolate hot cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/12/boozy-hot-chocolate Mon, 21 Dec 2020 22:10:57 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - White Russian https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/12/white-russian Hey there,

The White Russian is our nod to the dude (or his dudeness... if you're not into the whole brevity thing). Historically, there does not appear to be any documented evidence of a White Russian cocktail until sometime into the 1960s. Then in the 1998 Coen Brothers classic, “The Big Lebowski,” the drink was catapulted to cult-classic status. Our twist on this anytime cocktail adds an unexpected pleasant vanilla finish. For the casual mixologist with 5 minutes to "spare", this drink is as easy as taking candy from a baby. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

 

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Here's what you need:

For Drink
3 1/3 oz. Vanilla Infused Vodka (We used Smirnoff)
1 1/2 oz. Kahlua
4 oz. Heavy Cream
Ice

For Garnish
2 White Chocolate Chunks
2 Cocktail Picks

You will also need, mixing glass, bar spoon, hawthorne strainer, and 2 rocks tumblers. 

 

Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. Melt chocolate chunk onto cocktail pick. We did this by briefly heating the cocktail pick and them quickly pressing it into the choclate. 
  2. Allow to set in fridge/freezer while you make the drink.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In a mixing glass, add ice, Kahlua and Vodka. Stir for 15-20 seconds.
  2. Fill your rocks tumblers with ice.
  3. Pour the Kalua & Vodka mixture evenly between both tumblers.
  4. Top with heavy cream.
  5. Add garnish.
  6. Enjoy!!

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“You can’t buy happiness, but you can prepare a cocktail. And that’s kind of the same thing.”


 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) kahlua vodka white russian https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/12/white-russian Mon, 14 Dec 2020 19:09:01 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Ginger Beer Zipper https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/12/ginger-beer-zipper Hey hey!

We wanted to share a light and sweet cocktail, perfect for a weekend afternoon or to impress your quarantine approved house guest. Our version of the zipper cocktail swaps lemon-lime soda for ginger beer and we add an extra step of muddling blackberries and mint leaves for more depth of flavor. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

CZ-IMG_8187_1CZ-IMG_8187_1

 

Here's what you need:

For Drink
2 oz. Chambord (Raspberry Liqueur)
2 oz. Vodka
1.5 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
1.5 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
8 oz. Ginger Beer
6-8 Mint Leaves
6-8 Blackberries
Ice

For Garnish
2 Slices Lime
2 Large Mint Leaves

You will also need, cocktail shaker, hawthorne strainer, fine mesh strainer, muddler and 2 rocks tumblers. 

 

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In a shaker cup, add blackberries and mint leaves and muddle for approx. 10 seconds.
  2. Next, add:
    • Chambord (2 oz.)
    • Vodka (2 oz.)
    • Lemon & Lime juice (1.5 oz, each)
    • Simple Syrup (1/2 oz.)
    • Ice (8-10 cubes)
  3. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
  4. Double strain using hawthorne strainer and fine mesh strainer into two rocks tumblers
  5. Add ice (4-6 cubes each glass)
  6. Top with ginger beer (approx. 3-4 oz. per glass)
  7. Garnish with mint leaf and lime slice
  8. Enjoy!!

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"Let us learn to appreciate there will be times when the trees will be bare, and look forward to the time when we may pick the fruit."

-Anton Chekhov
 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) chambord ginger beer raspberry raspberry liqueur vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/12/ginger-beer-zipper Mon, 07 Dec 2020 19:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Mulled Wine https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/11/mulled-wine Hey There,

Are you ready for a warm cocktail?! Today we're sharing a recipe for mulled wine, also known as spiced wine. Mulled wine is popular in Europe around Christmas time, and I have a feeling it will be popular in the Leverett household as well! There are many variations of this cozy beverage, so feel free to experiment with different spices and flavors. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 2-4 drinks. Let's get started!

MW-D33A7195MW-D33A7195

 

Here's what you need:

For Drink
1 Bottle Red Wine (We used Cabernet Sauvignon)
2 Blood Oranges
4 Whole Star Anise
8-10 Whole Cloves
3 Cinnamon Sticks
3/4 Cup Brown Sugar

You will also need, 2-4 mugs, large sauce pan, cooking spoon, mixing glass and small strainer.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Peel 1/2 of one blood orange and set peel aside.
  2. Juice both blood oranges. Set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, add:
    • Wine (We used Agitator which is Bourbon Barrel Aged Cabernet Sauvignon)
    • Star Anise
    • Cloves
    • Cinnamon
    • Brown Sugar
    • Stir in Blood Orange Juice and peel last.
  4. Once the mixture begins steaming, reduce heat to low.
  5. Let simmer for approximately 25 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and strain into your heat safe mugs/glasses.
  7. For extra spice, feel free to garnish with spices, or orange slices.
  8. Enjoy!

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"Happiness is a hot drink, on a cold day." 

-unknown

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) hot hot cocktail hot wine mulled wine spice wine https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/11/mulled-wine Mon, 30 Nov 2020 19:54:57 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Cranberry Whiskey Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/11/cranberry-whiskey-sour Hey There,

You might be running around like a turkey with your head cut off, trying to get everything together for this Thursday. You may be upset that many of our plans have been canceled this year, and while 2020 just has not been the best, we want to remind you to pause and think of all the things you are grateful for. It's easy to focus on everything that has gone wrong or what we may have lost, but gratitude helps shift our focus and turns what we have into enough.

As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 4 drinks. Let's get started!

CWS-D33A2858CWS-D33A2858

 

Here's what you need:

For Cranberry Simple Syrup
2 Cups water
2 Cups sugar
2 Cinnamon sticks
2 Sprigs of Rosemary
16 oz Fresh Cranberries

 

For Drink
6 oz Whiskey
4 oz  Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
2 oz Orange Juice
2 oz Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
6 oz Cranberry Simple Syrup
Ice

You will also need, 4 coup glasses, large sauce pan, colander, heat resistant bowl, cooking spoon, cocktail shaker, mixing glass and small strainer.

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Let's Make the Cranberry Simple Syrup!

  1. In large saucepan over medium heat add
    • Water
    • Sugar
    • Cinnamon
    • Rosemary
  2. Bring to boil, then add Cranberries.
  3. Let cook for 10 min.
  4. Remove from heat and strain into large bowl. (We will be using the liquid but you can save the strained cranberries for making cranberry sauce)
  5. Let liquid cool for 10 min.
  6. Using small fine mesh strainer, strain the liquid one more time before using.

 

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In shaker cup add
    • Whiskey
    • Lemon Juice
    • Orange Juice
    • Lime Juice
    • Cranberry Simple Syrup
    • Handful of Ice
  2. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds
  3. Pour equally into 4 coup glasses.
  4. Toast for what you are thankful for.
  5. Enjoy!


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"Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things." 

-Robert Brault

 

 

Please practice social distancing and ​​p​​​​lease do your part to help stop the spread of Covid-19.

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cranberry sour whiskey whiskey sour whisky https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/11/cranberry-whiskey-sour Mon, 23 Nov 2020 22:32:25 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Hazelnut Espresso Martini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/11/hazelnut-espresso-martini Hey Hey!

The espresso martini was created by British bartender Dick Bradsell in the early 80s who allegedly whipped it up on the spot using old grounds of coffee for a model,  rumored to be Naomi Campbell or Kate Moss. The story goes, this model visited his bar and approached him asking for  “something to wake me up, then f*ck me up”. LOL ...so we had to put our spin on it and give it a try. If you are like us and enjoy a nice cup of coffee and a strong drink, this one is for you. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

EM-IMG_7351EM-IMG_7351

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
3-5 Coffee Beans

 

For Drink
2 oz. Vodka (Handcrafted)
1/2 oz. Kahlua
1 oz. Hazelnut Espresso (freshly brewed... we used flavored coffee beans)
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup
Ice
1 Martini Glass (Chilled)

You will also need, shaker cup and strainer.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Place Martini glass(es) in fridge to chill (or freezer if impatient)
  2. In Shaker cup add:
    • Ice
    • Vodka
    • Simple Syrup
    • Kahlua
    • Espresso
  3. Shake Vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
    • To get a thick frothy top to your espresso martini, you need to shake the mixture for a few seconds past when you think your arms will fall off. The more you shake, the more froth you get. You may need to spoon the froth on top of your drink as it may be too stiff to pass through the strainer.
  4. Add your coffee bean garnish.
  5. Enjoy!

 

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"May your coffee kick in before your reality does."

-unknown

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cocktail with coffee coffee coffee cocktail espresso martini vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/11/hazelnut-espresso-martini Tue, 17 Nov 2020 00:33:07 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Smokey Apple Butter Bourbon Bliss https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/11/smokey-apple-butter-bourbon-bliss Hey There!

Inspired by the changing season, leaves falling and.... bourbon, we wanted to create another original cocktail combining some of the flavors we love like apples and maple syrup. We also wanted to play with fire again LOL We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

ABB-IMG_7276ABB-IMG_7276

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Dried Apple Slices
2 tbsp Sugar in the Raw or any granulated sugar

 

For Drink
4 oz. Maple Bourbon
4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
2 oz. Simple Syrup
2 tbsp Apple Butter
Ice
2 Tumblers

You will also need, A couple wood chips (we used Apple Hickory wood chips), Lighter or Torch, a mixing glass, mixing spoon, sealable mason jar, strainer and air fryer, oven or dehydrator for garnish.

Let's Make the Garnish!

So, you can either purchase dried apple slices to save some time or you can DIY it! Here's what we did with the air fryer.

  1. Slice an apple thinly. We used Envy apples for this.
  2. Place a few slices in the airfryer, try not to overlap slices too much.
  3. Choose the lowest heat setting available and set timer for 40-50 minutes.
  4. Check on the slices periodically to ensure they are drying out evenly.
  5. When dried sufficiently, removed and dip one half quickly in lemon juice or water then dip in your granulated sugar.
  6. Hit the sugar with your lighter or torch to caramelize the sugar.
  7. Set aside.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In mixing glass, add 4 oz. Maple Bourbon and Apple Butter (you can find this in peanut butter aisle, or make your own)
  2. Stir gently for 10-15 seconds and set aside.
  3. Grab your lighter/torch again and light one of the hickory chips and cover with your mason jar.
  4. As the flame extinguishes and jar fills with smoke, seal the jar closed (without chip inside).
  5. Now as quickly as possibly, remove the lid from the smoked out mason jar and pour in the bourbon mixture from step 1.
  6. Reseal the mason jar.
  7. Grab your mixing glass that is now empty, don't clean it but add 4 oz. lemon juice, 2 oz. lime juice and 2 oz. simple syrup. Stir.
  8. Now, grab your tumblers, fill about half way with ice.
  9. First pour the contents from the mixing glass (lemon juice, lime juice and simple syrup) evenly between the two glasses.
  10. Next pour the smoked apple butter bourbon mixture evenly between the two glasses.
  11. Stir gently to mix.
  12. Add Garnish.
  13. Find a good spot on your couch and ENJOY!

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"The trees are about to show us how lovely it is to let dead things go."
-unknown

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) apple apple butter bourbon smoked smokey smoking cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/11/smokey-apple-butter-bourbon-bliss Tue, 10 Nov 2020 01:09:32 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Clean Slate https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/11/clean-slate Hey Hey!

We're Back! For the last almost 4 months we have been in transition, between selling our former home, moving into a temporary apartment and patiently waiting for construction on our new home to be completed. Although we are very much still in the process of settling in and furnishing this place, we wanted to restart this series. This week is dedicated to new beginnings, and we call this refreshing cocktail, Clean Slate. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Sprigs Rosemary
2 Lime Peel Spirals


 

For Drink
2 Sprigs Rosemary (larger than garnish)
8-10  Mint Leaves
4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
2 oz. Botanical Gin
2 oz. Vodka
4-8 oz. Ginger Beer
Ice
2 Tumblers

You will also need, a mixing glass, mixing spoon, lighter, strainer and muddler.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In mixing glass, add mint leaves, large rosemary sprigs, and lime juice.
  2. Muddle for approximately 30 seconds.
  3. Add Gin (2 oz.), Vodka (2 oz.) and ice (10 cubes or so).
  4. Stir gently to chill.
  5. Strain between two glasses and add ice to each glass.
  6. Top with ginger beer.
  7. Garnish:
    • Apply flame to your lime peel spiral for 20-30 seconds.
    • Then twist peel over glass to express and place in glass.
    • Add small sprig of rosemary.
  8. Enjoy!

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PSA: Make your vote count tomorrow. Go Vote!


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"Sometimes I succeed, sometimes I fail, but every day is a clean slate and a fresh opportunity."
-Gretchen Rubin

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) gin mint vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/11/clean-slate Mon, 02 Nov 2020 23:53:40 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Flight of the Graduate https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/7/flight-of-the-graduate Hey there!

Today's recipe... well recipes are dedicated to the class of 2020. Our favorite mixologist, Frank (the author of all these drinks on this site) just graduated his MBA program with a near perfect 4.0 average! After all of the papers, exams and group projects.... you need a shot, or 4! Congratulations graduates! We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This makes 4 [different] shots. Let's get started!

FG-IMG_0956FG-IMG_0956

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnishes
1 Melon Ball
1 Lime Wedge
1 Peach Wedge
1 Pineapple Wedge

 

For Drink
Melon Ball
1/4 oz. Pineapple Juice
1/4 oz. Midori
1 oz. Vodka
Ice

 

Snake Bite
2 oz. Whiskey
1/2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
1/4 oz. Simple Syrup (optional)
Ice

 

Woo Woo
1 oz. Vodka
1/2 oz. Peach Schnapps
2 oz. Cranberry Juice
Ice

 

Piña Colada
1 1/2 oz. Tequila
1/2 oz. Coconut Cream
1/2 oz. Pineapple Juice
Ice

You'll also need a shaker cup & shot glasses

FG-IMG_0954FG-IMG_0954

 

Let's Make the Drink!

The instructions for all four shots are the same, they just have different ingredients.

  1. In your shaker cup add all of the ingredients listed above for the shot you are making.
  2. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
  3. Pour approximately 2 oz. into your shot glass
  4. Garnish
    • Melon Ball = Melon Ball
    • Snake Bite = Lime Wedge
    • Woo Woo = Peach Wedge
    • Piña Colada = Pineapple Wedge
  5. Throw it back!
     

 

Melon Ball

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Snake Bite

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Woo Woo

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Piña Colado

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"The key to success, the key to happiness, is opening your mind and your heart to love. Spending your time doing things you love and with people you love."
-John Legend

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) midori pina colada shots tequila vodka whiskey https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/7/flight-of-the-graduate Mon, 06 Jul 2020 19:16:04 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Cucumber Basil Mint Slushie https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/6/cucumber-basil-mint-slushie Hey Hey!

Summer is by far our favorite season and although many of us are still in the midst of a mandatory lockdown, we are still able to enjoy time outside soaking up the sunshine. We wanted to share a recipe for a refreshing drink that is sure to keep you cool on the hot summer days. One sip and I swear your tension will melt away as your mood improves. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This recipe makes 1 pitcher or 4 drinks. Let's get started!

BA-IMG_0235BA-IMG_0235

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Cucumber Slices
2 Bunches of Basil or Mint Leaves

 

For Drink
3-4 cups of Ice 
4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
1/4 cup Basil Leaves
1/4 cup Mint Leaves
4 oz. Vodka

4 oz. Coconut Cream
2 oz. Water
3 tbsp. Sugar (We used Sugar in the Raw)
2 Cucumbers (chopped)

You'll also need a blender, smoothie/milkshake straws and any 8 oz glasses.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your blender, add everything:
    • Ice
    • Lime Juice
    • Basil  & Mint Leaves
    • Vodka
    • Coconut Cream
    • Water
    • Sugar
    • Chopped Cucumbers
  2. Using high speed smoothing setting (or equivalent) and blend for 30 -60 seconds.
  3. Pour into your 8 oz glasses. (Store any left overs in the freezer)
  4. Garnish with cucumber slice and mint or basil leaves
  5. Add a straw and find a comfy spot in the sun.
  6. Enjoy!

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“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.”
― John Steinbeck

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) basil cucumber mint slush slushie slushy vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/6/cucumber-basil-mint-slushie Mon, 29 Jun 2020 17:36:19 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Vodka Sunrise https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/6/vodka-sunrise Hey there!

This weekend was a little busy for us, so we decided to make a cocktail which needed minimal prep time and could be made with ingredients we already had. A Vodka Sunrise is similar to a Tequila Sunrise, except we decided to punch up the flavors by adding Chambord and Grapefruit juice. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

SR-IMG_9939_1SR-IMG_9939_1

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Lime Wedges
2 Grapefruit Wedges
2 Skewers/Cocktail Picks 

 

For Drink
4 oz. Vodka
1 oz. Chambord
1 oz. Grenadine
4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Grapefruit Juice
4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice
Ice
2 Collins or Highball Glasses 

You will also need a shaker cup.
 

SR-IMG_9927SR-IMG_9927

Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. Cut one Lime slice and one grapefruit slice into quarters.
  2. Skewer one lime quarter slice then skewer one grapefruit quarter slice.
  3. Set Aside.

 

SR-IMG_9889SR-IMG_9889

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In your Collins or highball Glass, add:
    • Chambord
    • Ice
    • Grenadine
  2. In your shaker cup, add:
    • More Ice
    • Grapefruit Juice
    • Vodka
  3. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds
  4. Pour over ice in your Collins/highball glass.
  5. Top with Orange Juice
  6. Add Garnish
  7. Enjoy!

 

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"Rest but never quit. Even the sun has a sinking spell each evening. But it always rises the next morning.
At sunrise, every soul is born again."

– Muhammad Ali
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) grapefruit orange juice vodka vodka sunrise https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/6/vodka-sunrise Mon, 22 Jun 2020 17:53:31 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Old Fashioned Love Story https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/6/old-fashioned-love-story Hey there,

Today's Mixology Monday post was inspired by a romantic movie and is another spin on an Old Fashion. We first made an Old Fashioned in January, and used blood oranges. Typically, an Old Fashioned uses orange and cherry as a garnish only. This version infuses the flavors of the garnish with the alcohol and the alcohol has the essence of the garnish. Similar to the best love stories, where two independent souls become one, in time (thyme). We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

 

OL-IMG_9570OL-IMG_9570

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Orange Slices
2 Bourbon Cherries
2 Skewers/Cocktail Picks 

 

For Drink
3 oz. Bourbon
1 oz. Cointreau
2 tbsp. Bourbon Cherry Syrup
2-4 tsp. Honey
4-8 Sprigs of Thyme
3 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
Ice
2 Coupe Glasses or Rocks Tumblers

You will also need a shaker cup, muddler, strainer, and air fryer or oven (for garnish)
 

Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. Slice an orange into a few thin slices.
  2. Pop into the air fryer on lowest heat setting for approx 40 min (check periodically)
    • If you do not have an air fryer, you can dry them in the oven on a low setting, it will however take considerably longer.
  3. Skewer one boozy cheery with your cocktail pick. Set aside.

OL-IMG_9538OL-IMG_9538

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In a shaker cup, add:
    • Thyme
    • Lime Juice
    • Cherry Syrup
  2. Muddle for 20-30 seconds.
  3. Add remaining ingredients to shaker cup:
    • Ice
    • Honey
    • Cointreau
    • Bourbon
  4. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds
  5. Strain evenly between both glasses
  6. Add garnish
  7. Enjoy!

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“Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.”
— Maya Angelou

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon cointreau old fashioned https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/6/old-fashioned-love-story Tue, 16 Jun 2020 01:08:10 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Apricot Dawa https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/6/apricot-dawa Hey there!

We hope you are well! Today for Mixology Monday, we are sharing our version of a Dawa. Dawa means medicine or magic potion in Swahili and is a classic cocktail in Kenya. Our take includes a drizzle of honey over the crushed ice, apricot jam and it gets sweeter with thyme (get it?!). Many Kenyan communities believe this drink is the ultimate cure for all ailments... maybe this is the thing we need!  We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages
 

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!
 

AD-IMG_9129AD-IMG_9129

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Apricot Slices

2 Bunches of Thyme
2 Skewers/Cocktail Picks 

 

For Drink
4 oz. Vodka
4 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
2 tsp. Granulated Sugar
2-4 tsp. Honey
4 Sprigs of Thyme
2 tbsp. Apricot Preserves
Ice
2 Rocks Tumbler Glasses

You'll also need a Shaker Cup, Muddler, Strainer and Hawthorne Strainer. 

AD-IMG_9153AD-IMG_9153

Let's Make the Garnish!

  1. Slice an apricot into medium sized wedges.
  2. Use your cocktail pick to skewer the apricot from top to bottom.
  3. Set aside along with 2 bunches on thyme.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In a shaker cup, add:
    • Sugar
    • Lime Juice
    • Thyme
    • Apricot Jam
  2. Muddle for 20-30 seconds.
  3. Add remaining ingredients to shaker cup:
    • Vodka
    • Ice
  4. Shake Vigorously for 30 seconds.
  5. Add ice to your rocks tumblers.
  6. Drizzle 1-2 tbsp of honey per glass, over the ice.
  7. Double strain shaker cup evenly between both glasses
  8. add your garnish of apricot wedge and sprigs of thyme.  
  9. Sip slow and enjoy!

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"Treat the Earth well. It was not given to you by your parents. It was loaned to you by your children." 
-Kenyan Proverb
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) apricot dawa thyme vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/6/apricot-dawa Mon, 08 Jun 2020 23:14:55 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Black Martini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/6/black-martini This week’s Mixology Monday is an interpretation of black, not as the absence of light to be feared but as a something sweet to be embraced. This cocktail highlights the black raspberry through use of a French liqueur called Chambord. Black raspberries are sweet fruits which grow in a thorny prickly shrub sometimes referred to as bramble. This concept of fruit amongst thorns is explored in our Black-tini cocktail which pairs sweet black raspberries with the, sharp tartness of lemon. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

BBM-IMG_8897_1BBM-IMG_8897_1

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2-6 Blackberries
2 Skewers/Cocktail Picks 

 

For Drink
3 oz. Vodka
2 oz. Blue Curaçao
1 oz. Chambord (Black Raspberry Liqueur)
1 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
Black Food Coloring (just a few drops)
Ice
2 Lemon Peel Strips (For Zest)
2 Martini Glasses

You'll also need a Shaker Cup, Strainer and Hawthorne Strainer. 

 

BBM-IMG_8852BBM-IMG_8852

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In a shaker cup, add:
    • Ice
    • Vodka
    • Blue Curaçao
    • Chambord
    • Lemon Juice
    • Food Coloring
  2. Shake Vigorously for 30 seconds
  3. Double Strain evenly between two martini glasses.
    • Note: Any time our cocktails include fresh squeezed juice and we don't want to include pulp in the cocktail, we double strain.
  4. Garnish with a skewer/cocktail pick of black berries.
  5. Twist your lemon peels above each glass to add zest.
  6. Enjoy!

 

BBM-IMG_8748BBM-IMG_8748 BBM-IMG_8758BBM-IMG_8758 BBM-IMG_8766BBM-IMG_8766 BBM-IMG_8784BBM-IMG_8784 BBM-IMG_8790BBM-IMG_8790 BBM-IMG_8801BBM-IMG_8801 BBM-IMG_8806BBM-IMG_8806 BBM-IMG_8826BBM-IMG_8826 BBM-IMG_8830BBM-IMG_8830 BBM-IMG_8861BBM-IMG_8861


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SAY THEIR NAME

 

 

 

Eric Garner •  John Crawford III •  Michael Brown •  Ezell Ford •  Dante Parker •  Michelle Cusseaux •  Laquan McDonald •  Tanisha Anderson •  Akai Gurley •  Tamir Rice •  Rumain Brisbon •  Jerame Reid •  George Mann •  Matthew Ajibade •  Frank Smart •  Natasha Mckenna • Tony Robinson •   Anthony Hill •  Mya Hall •  Phillip White •  Eric Harris •  Walter Scott •  William Chapman II •  Alexia Christian •  Brendon Glenn •  Victor Manuel Larosa •  Jonathan Sanders •  Freddie Blue • Joseph Mann • Salvado Ellswood •  Sandra Bland •  Albert Joseph Davis •  Darrius Stewart •  Billy Ray Davis •  Samuel Dubose •  Michael Sabbie •   Brian Keith Day •  Christian Taylor • Troy Robinson •    Asshams Pharoah Manley •  Felix Kumi •  Keith Harrison Mcleod Junior •  Prosper Lamontez Jones •   Paterson Brown •  Dominic Hutchinson •  Anthony Ashford •  Alonzo Smith •  Tyree Crawford •  India Kager •  La’vante Biggs • Steven Demarco Taylor •  Ariane McCree •  Michael Lee Marshall •  Jamar Clark •  Richard Perkins •  Nathaniel Harris Pickett •  Benni Leetignor •  Miguel Espinal •  Michael Noel • Kevin Matthews •  Bettie Jones •  Quintonio Legrier •  Keith Childress Jr. •  Janet Wilson •  Randy Nelson • Antronie Scott •  Wendell Celestine •  David Joseph •  Calin Roquemore • Dyzhawn Perkins •  Christopher Davis •   Marco Loud •  Peter Gaines •  Torrey Robinson •   Darius Robinson •   Kevin Hicksmary Truxillo •  Demarcus Semer •  Willie Tillman •   Terrill Thomas •  Sylville Smith •  Sean Reed  • Jamee Johnson •  Natosha “Tony” McDade •  Yassin Mohamed •  Finan H. Berhe •  Miles Hall •  Darius Tarver •  William Green • Kwame “KK” Jones •  De’von Bailey •  Eric Logan • Jamarion Robinson •  Gregory Hill Jr •  JaQuavion Slaton •  Ryan Twyman •  Brandon Webber •  Jimmy Atchison •  Willie McCoy •  Emantic “EJ” Fitzgerald Bradford Jr •  Jemel Roberson •  DeAndre Ballard •  Robert Lawrence White •  Anthony Lamar Smith •  Ramarley Graham •  Manuel Loggins Jr •  Trayvon Martin •  Wendell Allen •  Kendrec McDade • Larry Jackson Jr. •  Jonathan Ferrell • Jordan Baker •  Dontre Hamilton •  Kajieme Powell •  Jerame Reid •  Charly Leundeu Keunang •  Freddie Gray  •  Mario Woods •  Gregory Gunn •  Akiel Denkins •  Terrence Sterling • Keith Lamont Scott •  Alfred Olango •  Danny Ray Thomas •  DeJuan Guillory •   Jonathan Hart •  Maurice Granton •  Julius Johnson •  Jamee Johnson •  Michael Dean •  Alton Sterling •  Philando Castile • Terence Crutcher •  Paul O’Neal •  Alteria Woods •  Jordan Edwards •  Aaron Bailey •  Ronell Foster • Stephon Clark •  Antwon Rose II •  Botham Jean •  Pamela Turner •  Dominique Clayton •  Atatiana Jefferson •  Christopher Whitfield •  Christopher McCorvey •  Eric Reason •  Michael Lorenzo Dean •  Breonna Taylor •  Ahmaud Arbery •  George Floyd

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

#BLACKLIVESMATTER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) black martini blacklivesmatter blue curacao chambord vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/6/black-martini Mon, 01 Jun 2020 18:53:50 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Amaretto Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/5/amaretto-sour Hey Hey!

Today we're sharing a classic of Italian-American origins, the Amaretto Sour. The exact history of the drink is unclear but the early version of the drink was essentially an overly sweet combination of Amaretto and sour mix from the 1970s. Fortunately for us, this recipe has improved with time. So if you're reading this, remembering (and loathing) sipping this syrupy concoction a few decades ago we encourage you to try this updated rendition, it may end up being one of your favorites. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

DS-IMG_8550DS-IMG_8550

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Bourbon Soaked Cherries
2 Dehydrated Lemon Slices 
1 tsp Lemon Juice & 2 tbsp Sugar for Glass Rim

 

For Drink
4 oz. DiSarono
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
2 Dashes of Aromatic Bitters
1 Egg White
Ice Cubes
2 Coupe Glasses or Rocks Tumblers

You'll also need a Shaker Cup, Strainer and Mixing Glass. 

 

DS-IMG_8427DS-IMG_8427

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. Before we begin, sugar the rim of your glasses, as much or little as you like.
    • Pro tip, use a cotton swab to first apply the lemon juice where you want the sugar.
    • Lightly drag the glass (where lemon juice is applied) in your sugar
  2. In a shaker cup add:
    • 1 Egg White (be sure to separate out the yolk)
    • Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (2 oz)
    • Bitters (2 dashes)
    • DiSarono (4 oz)
    • Ice
  3. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds
  4. Pour into mixing glass
  5. Remove ice and pour cocktail back into shaker cup
  6. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds (with no ice)
  7. Strain into both glasses evenly
  8. Add 1 bourbon cherry and dehydrated lemon slice to each glass.
  • The bourbon cherries were purchased, not made. They can be found in well stocked liquor stores.
  • Our lemon slices were dehydrated in the air fryer. They can also be made in the oven. Set the temperature low, (150 - 200º) and wait. Time: 2 hours in oven.
  1. Enjoy!

 

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"Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.”
– Thomas A. Edison

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) amaretto amaretto sour bourbon cherry disarono https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/5/amaretto-sour Mon, 25 May 2020 15:07:33 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Frank's Hard Lemonade https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/5/franks-hard-lemonade Hey Hey!

We have all heard the saying; “When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.” but, why settle? Adding spirits, mint, and natural vanilla flavor profiles help elevate this American classic well beyond the ordinary. This original cocktail was Frank's creation after a mentally challenging day. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This recipe makes 1 drink. Let's get started!

 

FL-IMG_4630FL-IMG_4630

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Small Bunches of Mint Leaves
1 Lemon Slices
Optional Lemon Spiral for Aesthetics

 

For Drink
1.5 oz. Vanilla Simple Syrup (click here for recipe)
3 oz. Brandy 
4.5 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
10-12 Mint Leaves
1 tbsp Agave Nectar

Ice Cubes
1 High Ball Glass (or glass that can hold 9 oz)


You'll also need a Shaker Cup and Muddler. 

 

FL-IMG_4629FL-IMG_4629

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In a shaker cup add:
    • Mint Leaves (10-12) - Before adding, give the leave 2 smacks; by giving the herbs a smack, you're rupturing some of their cells and releasing their essential oils, this increases the aroma.
    • Vanilla Simple Syrup (1.5 oz) - Recipe Here
      • Note: If you do not have or cannot find vanilla beans, you can use one drop of vanilla extract in the recipe.
    • Agave Nectar (1 tbsp)
  2. Muddle (approx 5 turns)
  3. Add Ice (8-12 cubes)
  4. Add Brandy (3oz)
  5. Add Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (4.5 oz)
  6. Shake Vigourously for 15-20 Seconds
  7. Pour Into Glass Over Ice
  8. Add Garnish
  9. Enjoy!

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"Our happiness is certainly mixed in with the tragedies of life. You have to find the lemonade. You have to find the silver lining in the middle of everything that happens in life."

~Chandra Wilson

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) brandy hard lemonade lemon lemonade mint https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/5/franks-hard-lemonade Mon, 18 May 2020 15:45:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Moon Dew https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/5/moon-dew Hey There!

Another Monday, another day in lockdown. Yesterday we honored our mothers, who were our inspiration for today's drink. Our Moon Dew is our twist on the Moonwalk.  No, we're not talking about Michael Jackson's famous dance move. The original Moonwalk cocktail was invented in 1969, by Joe Gilmore, head barman of the Savoy Hotel's American Bar, to commemorate the first moon landing. Gilmore said in an interview, “The Savoy sent it off in a flask and I received a letter back from Neil Armstrong thanking us and saying it was the first drink they had when they came out of quarantine.” Fortunately for us, we don't have to wait for the end of quarantine to sip on this. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

 

MD-IMG_3981MD-IMG_3981

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 edible flowers
Note: Many flowers can be edible but be sure to get yours from a grocery store, in the produce section. Stores such as Wegmans, Trader Joes or Wholefoods will have them.

For Drink
3 oz. Grapefruit Juice w/ Flower Syrup (see below)

2 oz. Cointreau 
8 oz. Prosecco
Ice Cubes
2 White Wine Glasses


For Grapefruit Juice w/ Flower Syrup
2-4 edible flowers
2 Grapefruits
1/2 cup water

1/2 cup sugar
 

You'll also need a Mixing Glass, Shaker Cup and Strainer. 

MD-IMG_3858MD-IMG_3858

 

Let's Make the Grape Fruit Juice with Flower Syrup!

  1. In a small pot add:

    • Water (1/2 cup)
    • Sugar (1/2 cup)
    • Edible Flowers (2-4)
  2. Let boil for 8 minutes.
  3. Let chill.
  4. Juice both grapefruits (you will need 6 oz)
  5. Add 1.5 oz of your chilled flower syrup to the grapefruit juice and set aside.
  6. Any leftover syrup can be preserved in the fridge.

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Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In a mixing glass add:

    • Grapefruit Juice w Flower Syrup (3 oz)
    • Cointreau (2 oz)
  2. Stir lightly.
  3. In shaker cup, add your mixture from previous step and ice.
  4. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds.
  5. Strain evenly between two glasses.
  6. Top with Prosecco (4 oz each glass).
  7. Garnish each glass with 1 edible flower.
  8. Enjoy!

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“A flower blooming in the desert proves to the world that adversity, no matter how great, can be overcome.”
-Matshona Dhliwayo
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cointreau grapefruit moonwalk moonwalk cocktail prosecco https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/5/moon-dew Mon, 11 May 2020 15:32:20 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Blue Milk of Tatooine https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/5/blue-milk-of-tatooine Hey Hey,

Today, May 4th, we are honoring Star Wars Day with a treat from Tatooine. We understand you likely will not have a bantha nearby (unless maybe you're friends with a Jawa)... so, we've made some modifications! Whether you pledge allegiance to the First Order, the Resistance, Empire, or are simply just a piece of Rebel scum; this treat will serve you well, like Luke's R2D2 & C3PO. May the Fourth (and Force) be with you always!. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

SW-IMG_3743SW-IMG_3743

Here's what you need:

For Drink
4 oz. Gin
2 oz. Coconut Cream 
1 oz. Blue Curaçao
1 oz. Vanilla Syrup (click here)
1 oz. DiSarono

1.5 oz. Pineapple Juice
1.5 oz. Lime Juice 
Ice Cubes
2 Rocks Tumblers

You'll also need a  Shaker Cup, Bar Spoon and Strainer. 

SW-IMG_3749SW-IMG_3749

Let's Make the Drink!

  1. In a mixing glass add:

    • Gin (4 oz)
    • Coconut Cream (2 oz)
    • Blue Curaçao (1oz)
    • Vanilla Syrup (1 oz)
    • DiSarono (1 oz)
    • Pineapple Juice (1.5 oz)
    • Lime Juice (1.5 oz)
  2. Stir Gently
  3. Add ice to your shaker cup
  4. Pour drink mixture into your shaker cup
  5. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds
  6. Strain evenly between two glasses.
  7. Enjoy with your favorite Wookie!

SW-IMG_3523SW-IMG_3523 SW-IMG_3531SW-IMG_3531 SW-IMG_3545SW-IMG_3545 SW-IMG_3566SW-IMG_3566 SW-IMG_3573SW-IMG_3573 SW-IMG_3579SW-IMG_3579 SW-IMG_3596SW-IMG_3596 SW-IMG_3613SW-IMG_3613 SW-IMG_3616SW-IMG_3616 SW-IMG_3627SW-IMG_3627 SW-IMG_3646SW-IMG_3646


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“In a dark place we find ourselves, and a little more knowledge lights our way.”
-Yoda, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
 

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bantha milk blue milk coconut cream DiSarono gin star wars tatooine https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/5/blue-milk-of-tatooine Mon, 04 May 2020 15:33:26 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Boozy Whipped Coffee https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/4/boozy-whipped-coffee Hey Hey!

We hope you are well! We are doing our best over here but often find ourselves losing track of time, wondering what day it is and giving our Keurig a workout. No wonder our sleep schedule is screwed up! This week’s post was inspired from one of those cups of coffee. Caffeinated boozy drinks are not new and offer a ‘best of both worlds’ solution to the hum-drum of this new normal; caffeine to keep you motivated & alcohol to take the edge off these uncertain times. We are pairing this cocktail with our version of the current viral sensation, whipped coffee or the top half of a Dalgona Coffee. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages  By the way, lately we have been posting behind the scenes videos on IG (in our stories), give us a follow to see for yourself!

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

CAF-IMG_2755CAF-IMG_2755
 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1/4 cup Instant Coffee
1/4 cup Sugar
1/4 cup Hot Water
1/2 oz. Kahlua 
1-2 tbsp chocolate shavings (optional)

For Drink
1.5 oz. Brandy
1.5 oz Grand Marnier 
1.5 oz Kahlua
8-10 oz Hot Coffee
1 Orange Peel
2 Heat Safe Mugs or Glasses 

You'll also need a  peeler, bar spoon and lighter.

CAF-IMG_2738CAF-IMG_2738

Let's Make the Garnish:
 

  1. In a bowl add:

    • Instant Coffee (1/4 cup)

    • Sugar (1/4 cup)

    • Hot Water (1/4 cup)

    • Kahlua (1/2 oz)

  2. Using an electric mixer, mix until fluffy (about 2-5 minutes)

    • If you don't have an electric mixer, you can whisk by hand. This will take 8-15 minutes and your arm might fall off, but its worth it!

  3. Put a lid on your bowl and set aside for now.

    • Any extra you have left over can be stored in the fridge for a week or so. 

  4. Shave your chocolate and also set that aside.

CAF-IMG_2645CAF-IMG_2645 CAF-IMG_2651CAF-IMG_2651 CAF-IMG_2656CAF-IMG_2656 CAF-IMG_2662CAF-IMG_2662
CAF-IMG_2658CAF-IMG_2658 CAF-IMG_2734CAF-IMG_2734 CAF-IMG_2748CAF-IMG_2748
 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1. Lightly burn your orange peel with a lighter. This helps bring out the orange's oils and a deeper flavor to the drink.
  2. Place the peel in a large cup or mixing glass.
  3. In the glass add:
    • Brandy (1.5 oz)
    • Grand Marnier (1.5 oz)
    • Kahlua (1.5 oz)
    • Hot Coffee (8-10 oz)
  4. Stir Lightly.
  5. Pour evenly between your two glasses, and ensure space to add your whipped coffee.
  6. Gently spoon the whipped coffee onto the top of your drink (it will float).
  7. Add your chocolate shavings.
  8. Sip Slow and Enjoy!

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"With enough coffee, I feel as though all things are possible. Many of them are highly unlikely, but they are possible."
~Nanea Hoffman
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) boozy coffee brandy caffeine coffee dalgona grand marnier kahlua whipped coffee https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/4/boozy-whipped-coffee Mon, 27 Apr 2020 14:50:47 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Bourbon Basil Smashless Smash https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/4/bourbon-basil-smashless-smash Hey Hey!

We hope you're well! Today we're keeping things nice, simple, easy breezy and we're making a smash! Smashes have been around for at least the last century. There are many different variations of smashes out there but they have a common denominator.... a spirit, a sweetener, fresh herb,  fruit/fruit juice and it’s served over ice. Perfect for the longer and warmer springtime days. We're calling it a smashless smash only because we didn't muddle any fruit here.  We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get smashed!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Small Basil Leaf bunches

For Drink
4 oz. Bourbon
2 oz. Lemon Lime Simple Syrup 
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
10 Basil Leaves
Crushed Ice or Ice Cubes
2 Rocks Tumblers

For Lemon Lime Simple Syrup
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
2 oz Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
2 oz Water
5 tsp. Granulated Sugar

You'll also need a  Shaker Cup and Hawthorn Strainer. 

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Let's Make the Lemon Lime Syrup:

Many cocktails call for a simple syrup which is equal parts sugar and water. We've made a simple syrup before, click here. This version adds lemon and lime juice instead of vanilla.

Combine all ingredients (lemon juice, lime juice, sugar and water) in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar has dissolved completely. Remove from heat and let cool. Strain into a clean container, cover and refrigerate. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In a shaker cup, add:
    • Several Ice Cubes
    • Basil Leaves (slap them in your hands once or twice in order to get the most flavor out)
    • Bourbon (4 oz)
    • Simple Syrup (2 oz)
    • Lemon Juice (2 oz)
  2. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
  3. Pour over  Ice into 2 rocks tumblers
  4. Add more Ice
  5. Garnish with basil leaves
  6. Enjoy! 


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"You know what rhymes with Monday? Bourbon."

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) basil bourbon smash https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/4/bourbon-basil-smashless-smash Mon, 20 Apr 2020 16:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Tiger Juice https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/4/tiger-juice Hey there all you cool cats and kittens!

We hope you and your family are well and are hanging in there! Since we are literally a captive audience these days, I'm sure you are aware of the Netflix docuseries Tiger King, a documentary about tiger owners in the US and their fascinating world. The over the top WTF moments throughout the entire thing are still lingering in our minds, so we are dedicating this Monday to Joe Exotic, Carole Baskin and her missing husband... because Tiger Juice is better than sardine juice! We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Large Orange Peels from 1 Orange

 

For Drink
6 oz. Bourbon
4 oz. Fresh Squeeze Orange Juice 
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice
1 Tsp. Agave Nectar
5-7 Ice Cubes
2 Martini Glasses

You'll also need a  Shaker Cup, Hawthorn Strainer, and another Strainer (we're double straining this).

 

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Let's Make the Garnish:

  1. To make your tiger claw garnish, save the peel from 1 orange.
  2. Cut out two large and tall triangles.
  3. Within each triangle cut 3 equal sized strips (Be careful to not cut end to end, you want the orange peel intact)
  4. Starting with the top point of the triangle, wrap around a chopstick or cocktail pick in a spiral shape.
  5. Wrap in a damp paper towel and set aside until needed.

 

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In a shaker cup, add:
    • Bourbon (6 oz)
    • Orange Juice (4 oz)
    • Lemon Juice (2 oz)
    • Agave (1 tsp)
    • Ice
  2. Shake Vigorously for 30 seconds.
  3. Strain using Hawthorn strainer and additional strainer into 2 martini glasses.
  4. Add your garnish.
  5. Enjoy! Sip Slow!

 

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"Better to live one year as a tiger, then a hundred as sheep."    
-Madonna Ciccone

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bourbon carole baskin joe exotic orange orange juice tiger juice tiger king https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/4/tiger-juice Mon, 13 Apr 2020 16:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Blackberry Cosmo https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/4/blackberry-cosmo Hey There!

We hope you and your family are well! This week we sharing a drink that has many similarities to the Kamikaze shot from last week (link here). The Cosmopolitan is a combination of vodka, orange liqueur, lime juice, and cranberry juice. Our twist on this modern classic is adding blackberries. The Cosmopolitan, or, 'Cosmo,' gained popularity in the 1990s mainly due to the HBO show, Sex and the City. A show that neither Frank nor I watched, but nevertheless, this must have for S.J.P. and her crew might end up being one of your favorites. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
6 Blackberries
2 Cocktail Picks

 

For Drink
3 oz. Vodka
1 oz. Cointreau 
2 oz. Cranberry Juice
1 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice

4-6 Blackberries
1 Tsp. Sugar
5-7 Ice Cubes
2 Martini Glasses

You'll also need a  Shaker Cup, Muddler, Hawthorn Strainer, and another Strainer (we're double straining this).


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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In a shaker cup, add:
    • Sugar (1 tsp)
    • Blackberries (4-6)
    • Lime Juice (1 oz)
  2. Muddle
    • Gently press down and give a half-turn of the muddler.
    • Release and Repeat approximately four to six turns.
  3. Add Remaining Ingredients:
    • Ice
    • Cranberry Juice (2 oz)
    • Cointreau (1 oz)
    • Vodka (3 oz)
  4. Shake Vigorously for 30 seconds.
  5. Strain using Hawthorn strainer and additional strainer into 2 martini glasses.
  6. For the garnish, place 3 blackberries on a cocktail pick.
  7. Enjoy! Sip Slow!

 

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“Vodka may not be the answer, but it is worth a shot.”
 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) blackberry cointreau cosmo cosmopolitan cranberry juice SATC vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/4/blackberry-cosmo Mon, 06 Apr 2020 16:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Quarantine Corona and Kamikaze Shot https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/quarantine-kamikaze Hey There!

We hope you are hanging in there and staying safe. We are going to make this short and to the point. Since we just found out mandatory social distancing is being extended until the end of April, let's all take a shot and enjoy a Corona. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 

This recipe makes 2 shots.... or 1 double shot if you're like us. Let's get started.

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Lime Wedge (for your Corona)

 

For Shot
1/2 oz Lime Juice (fresh squeezed)
1/2 oz Cointreau (can substitute with Triple Sec)
1 oz Vodka

You'll also need a  Shaker Cup and Strainer

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Let's Make the Shot:

  1. In a shaker cup, add:
    • Ice
    • Vodka
    • Cointreau
    •  Lime Juice
  2. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds
  3. Strain into 2 shot glasses (or 1)
  4. Enjoy!

Now take that lime wedge and shove it into the neck of the Corona!

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"It is moments like these that force us to try harder, and dig deeper, and to discover gifts we never knew we had - to find the greatness that lies within each of us."
~Barack Obama

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) beer corona kamikaze lime vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/quarantine-kamikaze Mon, 30 Mar 2020 20:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Lockdown Long Island Iced Tea https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/lockdown-long-island-iced-tea Hey There!

We truly hope you and your family are well and making the most of your time during this nationwide lock down. We know you might be there at home, listening to D-Nice's Live Stream or binge watching Netflix... looking at your home bar wondering what you can get into, [enter the Long Island Iced Tea]! A classic Long Island Iced Tea is a little bit of this, and a little bit of that, including the left over sour mix we made last week. We thought this would be the perfect thing to make this week. We hope you enjoy. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get LIIT!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Lemon Slices

 

For Drink
1 oz White Rum
1 oz Vodka
1 oz Gin
1 oz Grand Marnier (may substitute with Triple Sec)

2 oz Sour Mix (see Sour Mix ingredients and steps below)
2 oz Cola (may substitute with real sweetened black tea)
Ice Cubes
2 High Ball Glasses (or Rocks Tumblers as shown)

 

For Sour Mix
1-part Lime Juice (2oz. minimum)
1-part Lemon Juice (2oz. minimum)
1-part Granulated Sugar (4 tablespoons minimum)
1-part Water (2oz. minimum)

 

You'll also need a  Shaker Cup and Hawthorn Strainer

 

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Let's Make the Sour Mix:

  1. Squeeze approx 2 limes and 2 lemons (separately).
  2. In a separate container, add 4 tablespoons sugar, 2 oz lime juice, 2 oz lemon juice and 2 oz water. 
  3. Stir gently. 

Note: If you happen to make more sour mix than you need for this drink, you can store the extra in the fridge.

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In your shaker cup, add White Rum (1 oz), Vodka(1 oz), Gin (1 oz), Grand Marnier (1 oz) & Sour Mix (2 oz)
  2. Add a few ice cubes to shaker cup.
  3. Add a few ice cubes to each high ball glass.
  4. Shake shaker cup for 20-30 seconds.
  5. Using your hawthorn strainer, strain evenly into each glass.
  6. Top with cola (1 oz in each glass)
  7. Garnish with lemon slice
  8. Enjoy!


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Please be safe.

 

"The more relaxed you are, the better you are at everything--the better you are with your loved ones, the better you are with enemies, the better you are at your job, the better you are with yourself."
~Bill Murray
 

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) coke cola gin grand marnier LIIT lockdown long island iced tea long island iced tea rum tequila triple sec vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/lockdown-long-island-iced-tea Mon, 23 Mar 2020 20:00:00 GMT
Belizean Fry Jacks - Traditional Breakfast Treat https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/belizean-fry-jacks Hey There!

If you had a chance to take a look at my Belize honeymoon blog post (click here to see) you saw me talk about Fry Jacks. Fry Jacks are a staple in Belizean cuisine. Fry Jacks are essentially fried dough. They are kind of like French beignets, or Latin American sopapillas. A traditional Belizean breakfast will have, fry jacks, salsa or tomatoes, refried beans, eggs and an additional protein like chicken or fish. The best part... fry jacks are hollow so you can stuff all of that inside for a yummy bite! Feel free to have these with anything you like, sweet or savory. 

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This will make 10-12 Fry Jacks depending on the size you make them.

What You Need:

  • 3 cups flour
  • 3 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil or shortening (for the dough)  
  • 1  cup water (adjust as needed)
  • 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying pan)

You'll also need a frying pan, rolling pin, cookie cooling rack or paper towels

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Let's Get Started:

  1. Place dry ingredients, flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
  2. Add teaspoon of shortening/oil into flour. I brought back Belizean cohune oil so I used that instead of oil or shortening in the dough.
  3. Knead the dough, adding water along the way. When fully mixed, I suggest letting sit for about 15 minutes.
  4. In the meantime, put oil in the frying pan and heat to medium/high temperature.
  5. Next, divide the dough into ten to twelve medium-sized balls and flatten them into a circle.
    • Pro tip: use a rolling pin, don't be like me and forget you don't have one until its too late LOL
    • Roll each ball of dough out super thin. The goal is to have smooth and flat pieces of dough.
    • Optional: Cut each piece in half. (I used a pizza cutter)If you choose to not cut, you'll just have larger fry jacks!
  6. Place dough in the frying pan and leave for a minute or two until it puffs up and turns golden brown. Flip over for an additional minute or two.
  7. Remove from oil and place of paper towel or cooling rack.

Note: The key to puffy fry jacks is hot oil and smooth, thin pieces of dough. Try one first before making the whole batch if you are unsure of the consistency and oil temp.

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Buen provecho!



 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) beignet belize belizean belizean breakfast breakfast cooking with nikki food photography fried dough fry jack recipe sopapillas vegan vegetarian https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/belizean-fry-jacks Tue, 17 Mar 2020 15:40:59 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - The Midori Sour https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/the-midori-sour Hey, hey!

Tomorrow is St.Patrick's day. While this a cultural & religious holiday celebrated every March 17th, we know that its also a day to wear your greenest green ensemble, chug a pint of Guinness and nosh on Irish soda bread because everyone's Irish on St. Patty's Day. But today, is Mixology Monday... so you know we had to give you something special.... and green! Hopefully you have some Midori left over from our Grinch-tini, because you'll need that. However you choose to celebrate tomorrow, please be safe; we hope you enjoy this. As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 

This recipe makes 2 drinks. Grab your shamrocks and let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
Honeydew 
Cantaloupe

 

For Drink
4 oz Midori
4 oz Sour Mix (see Sour Mix ingredients and steps below)
2 oz Vodka
1 oz (a splash) Sprite or 7up
1 cup crushed ice
2 High Ball Glasses

For Sour Mix
1-part Lime Juice (2oz. minimum)
1-part Lemon Juice (2oz. minimum)
1-part Granulated Sugar (4 tablespoons minimum)
1-part Water (2oz. minimum)

 

You'll also need a  Cocktail Picks, Melon Baller, Bar Spoon
 

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Let's Start the Garnish:

  1. Grab your honeydew and cantaloupe, cut each in half and scoop out the seeds.
  2. Grab your melon baller. These typically have two sizes, one on each end. We're going to use the smallest size scoop.
  3. Let's start with the honeydew, press the melon baller firmly into the halved melon then begin to rotate to form a sphere. Make several spheres (3-4)
  4. Repeat step 3 with cantaloupe.
  5. Grab your cocktail pick and skewer your melon balls, alternating honeydew and cantaloupe (in any order you wish).
  6. Set aside for now.

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Let's Make the Sour Mix:

  1. Squeeze approx 2 limes and 2 lemons (separately).
  2. In a separate container, add 4 tablespoons sugar, 2 oz lime juice, 2 oz lemon juice and 2 oz water.
  3. Stir gently. 

Note: If you happen to make more sour mix than you need for this drink, you can store the extra in the fridge.

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In each highball glass, add 2 oz Midori, 2 oz sour mix, 1 oz Vodka
  2. Add your crushed ice (~1/2 cup)
  3. Add splash of sprite
  4. Add melon ball garnish
  5. Enjoy!

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“May your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow. And may trouble avoid you wherever you go."
 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cantaloupe honeydew lime midori midori sour shamrock st patrick's day st pattys day https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/the-midori-sour Mon, 16 Mar 2020 16:30:00 GMT
Our Un-Belize-able Valentine's Honeymoon https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/our-un-belize-able-honeymoon Ahhh.. Belize. The weather, the food, the ocean and the company made for an unforgettable trip!I can't believe it was already 1 month ago!

Initially Frank and I weren't planning to honeymoon anywhere. We eloped in November and we were married in San Francisco City Hall.  We also were planning a reception back home in NJ for February so we didn't think we needed to plan yet another thing. Fortunately we didn't really have to! My friend and event planner, Ebony Cattouse Stewart began planning her first couples retreat for Valentine's Day weekend in her home country of Belize. Once we saw the details of the trip it was a no brainer! She took care of all of the details including transportation, excursions, food and more! We had an amazing time and we will definitely be going back next year!

You already know I brought all my cameras! My Canon Rebel with every lens LOL, a Dragon Touch underwater camera (Thanks Dad!) and protective pouch with a neck strap for my iphone! I'm glad I had so many options because we got into a lot! Below I have recapped our trip each day and included some of my favorite images! If you scroll all the way down to the bottom, I have included some videos and a slideshow of more photos as well!! 

Click to Learn more about Belize

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Day 1 - Arrival

We arrived in Belize City on Valentine's day.  We left sub 30 degree NJ weather and stepped off the airplane into 90 degree sunshine. After a very long line for customs, we were off to the hotel where we had a cocktail and did a little walking around the neighborhood.

Later that evening we had a romantic Valentines Day dinner with live music.

 

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Day 2 - Snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve

We started the day with a traditional Belizean breakfast which included Fry Jacks (click here for recipe and pix) Then, we took the water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker for snorkeling. We (a small group of about 10 of us) spent about 4 hours in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. It was so beautiful and amazing. On the way to our first snorkeling spot, we spotted a dolphin! We also saw turtles, sting rays, nurse sharks and tons of fish. My camera footage would definitely make you seasick but I managed to edit a few clips (below) and snag a few screen shots. After returning to Caye Caulker, we walked around The Split, had coconut water and almost missed the last 1 hr ride water taxi back to Belize City because I was taking pictures of the rainbow! Oops! Later that evening we had an all white dinner party with Ebony and her husband Omar (credit for some of the pix of Frank and I).

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Day 3 - Chukka ATV, Zip Line and Cave Tubing Adventure & Altun Ha Mayan Ruins

More Fry Jacks... then we drove into the Maya mountains, saw the sleeping giant, then arrived at the jungle oasis called Chukka. We rode ATVs through palm trees, up an down steep hills... I managed to only get stuck once! We then zip lined through treetops, had lunch then did some cave tubing which was a unique experience floating through caves, created by rain, seeing bats, and interesting stalagmites and stalactites formed over thousands of years ago. We then dashed to a nearby Mayan Ruin Site, Altun Ha, for a tour. We got there right before closing so we were able to enjoy the views without the crowds of people that normally are there. After grabbing some souvenirs, we chose to have dinner at the hotel since we were pretty exhausted from the days adventures.

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Day 4 - Traveller's Tour and Departure Home

Our last morning in Belize. We woke up early for one last stroll in the neighborhood. We snapped some pictures then grabbed breakfast...Fry Jacks... before packing up for home. On the way to the airport, we stopped for souvenirs and for a quick tour of Traveller's Rum facility... and a tasting. We arrived home, in the dark, cold night and immediately felt cranky wishing we had one more day in Belize. Until Next time!

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Some Videos:

Snorkeling Video Highlights

BZE - SnorkelingSnorkeling in Belize, Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Spotted dolphins, turtles, sharks, sting rays and more

ATV Video Highlight

BZE - ATVsATV Riding @ Chukka - Belize

Cave Tubing Video Highlight

BZE - Cave TubingChukka Belize Cave Tubing Adventures

Zip Line Video Highlight

BZE - ZipliningChukka Hiking and Ziplining in Belize

Photo Slide Show (Press Play in Lower Right Corner)

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) altun ha atv belize cave tubing caye caulker chukka hol chan marine reserve honeymoon snorkeling travel travel blog vacation zip line https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/our-un-belize-able-honeymoon Sat, 14 Mar 2020 13:30:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - The Sidecar https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/the-sidecar Hey, hey!

This week we are sipping on some French Brandy, also known as Cognac. Yes, we have our scented candles, Courvoisier and we are ready to answer your love queries.... I mean, we are ready to share this recipe for the traditional Sidecar. (Brownie points if you know who Leon Phelps is.) 

As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 
This recipe makes 2 drinks!  Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
3-4  Tablespoons of Lemon Juice (adjust as needed)
4 Tablespoons of Sugar (adjust as needed)
2 Lemon Slices
 

For Drink
4 oz. Cognac
1.5  oz. Cointreau 
1.5 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
Ice
2 Martini Glasses

You'll also need a  Shaker Cup, Hawthorn Strainer, Bar Spoon.
 

Let's Start the Garnish:

  1. Cut 2 thin slices from a lemon.
  2. To create each curly peel garnish, cut through one side of the peel.
  3. Then, cut out the pulp so you have a long strip of peel. 
  4. Twist into the corkscrew shape and set aside. (We wrapped ours around a toothpick and placed into a paper towel until we were ready).
  5. Next, to prep the martini glasses, grab some lemon juice and sugar.
  6. There are several ways to do this, but one of the quickest is to get two small plates and place the lemon juice and sugar each on their own plate.
  7. Dip the glass (upside down) in the lemon juice. Alternatively, you can paint the lemon juice on the rim with a cotton swab or napkin, or you can run a lemon wedge around the rim.
  8. While keeping glass upside down, now dip the glass into the sugar.
  9. Remove gently and flip upright. Set aside.
  10. Repeat with 2nd glass. 

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In a shaker cup add Cognac (4 oz), Cointreau (1.5 oz) and Lemon Juice (1.5 oz).
  2. Add ice
  3. Stir gently
  4. Strain evenly between both martini glasses
  5. Add your curly lemon peels
  6. Enjoy!

 

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"It is well to remember that there are five reasons for drinking: the arrival of a friend, one’s present or future thirst, the excellence of the cognac, or any other reason."
-W.C. Fields
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) brandy cognac cointreau courvoisier side car sidecar https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/the-sidecar Mon, 09 Mar 2020 16:50:07 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Sage Berry Spritzer (Low Alcohol) https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/sage-berry-spritzer It's been a little while, we shouldn't have left you, without a dope drink to sip on (sip on, sip on). 
 We're back from our honey moon (more on that soon) and we are ready to share a low alcohol spritzer to start the week off!

So, you’ve made your fancy Martini and have some sweet or white vermouth just lying around and you’re in the mood for fruity libations (that means drink... get your mind out the gutter). Why not make a sage berry spritzer? We know... we know... spritzers are usually made with Prosecco or other sparkling wine. But vermouth is still wine at the end of the day & we will show you how to make that sparkle!

As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 
This recipe makes 2 drinks!  Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
4 Blueberries
2 Sage Leaves
2 Strawberries

 

For Drink
8-10 Strawberries (Quartered)
16-20 Blueberries (Small Handful)
4-5 Fresh Sage Leaves
1 Cup Sparkling Water
1 Cup Mancino Vermouth
2-4 Ice Cubes

You'll also need a Blender, Muddler, Shaker Cup, Hawthorn Strainer, Bar Spoon.
 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1. Place strawberries and blueberries in blender with a splash (1 oz) of vermouth. Blend until smooth.
  2. Place sage leaves in shaker cup with 1/2 oz vermouth.
  3. Use your muddler to mash the sage leaves.
  4. Add your berry blender mixture to the shaker cup.
  5. Add 1 cup Mancino Vermouth.
  6. Add Ice.
  7. Shake vigorously.
  8. Using your Hawthorn strainer, cover the shaker cup and strain into your glass. (Note: If you want less fruit bits in your drink, strain twice before pouring into your glass)
  9. Add 1/2 cup sparkling water to each glass. Stir Lightly.

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Let's Assemble the Garnish:

  1. Skewer one end of the sage leaf, then add one blueberry.
  2. Fold the sage leaf over and skewer again. Add another blueberry.
  3. Skewer one strawberry.
  4. Repeat for 2nd garnish.
  5. Add to each drink.

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"The problem with the world is that everyone is a few drinks behind." 
-Humphrey Bogart
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) blueberry dry january low abv low alcohol muddled sage spritzer strawberry vermouth https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/3/sage-berry-spritzer Mon, 02 Mar 2020 17:45:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Classic Cucumber Minty Martini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/2/martini-classic-cucumber-minty-martini Hey There! Happy Monday!

Ahhh, the martini. Loved by James Bond, Humphrey Bogart, Homer Simpson and Frank Leverett. The original name of this post was the Perfect Leverett Martini because according to him, it combined all of the classic martini ingredients, well.... perfectly! 

Pro Tip: The key to a great martini, is fresh vermouth. Vermouth is a wine, so we suggest storing your bottle in the fridge after opening or perhaps buying mini bottles so you'll always have a fresh bottle when you need it.

Note: this is considered a double martini as it has twice as much alcohol as a single, so please enjoy responsibility.

As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 
This recipe makes 1 drink!  Let's get started!
 

 

Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1  Cucumber Slice (lengthwise)
3 Spanish Olives / Martini Olives
1 Martini Skewer
 

For Drink
3 oz. Botanical Gin
1/2 oz. Vermouth
2-3 Cucumber Slices 
4-5 Fresh Mint Leaves
Ice
Chilled Martini Glass

You'll also need a Muddler, Shaker Cup, Hawthorn Strainer, Bar Spoon.
 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1. After removing the ends from the cucumber, cut two or three slices and place in your shaker cup.
  2. Add mint leaves, vermouth, and gin to the shaker with your cucumber slices.
  3. Use your muddler to mash your mint leaf and cucumbers shaker mix.
  4. Add ice to your now muddled mix and lightly stir.
  5. Cover your shaker with the Hawthorn Strainer and pour into your chilled martini glass.

 

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Let's Assemble the Garnish:

  1. Create a long cucumber slice by using a peeler or cheese slicer. Your slice should be about 6-8 inches long.
  2. Skewer one end of the cucumber slice, then add one olive.
  3. Fold the cucumbers slice over and skewer again.Add another olive.
  4. Repeat step 3 again.

          Note: you may add as few or as many olives as you like but it should be an odd number.

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Add your garnish to your drink and enjoy! 
 

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“I never go jogging, it makes me spill my Martini.” 
-George Burns
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) dry martini gin martini olives vermouth https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/2/martini-classic-cucumber-minty-martini Mon, 10 Feb 2020 18:45:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Bloody Maria https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/1/mixology-monday-with-the-leveretts---bloody-maria Happy Monday!

Many are familiar with the popular tomato based hangover cure, the Bloody Mary; which is a cocktail combining vodka, tomato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce and the kitchen sink. But, what is a Bloody Maria?? When Mary meets Tequila... you get Maria. There seems to be a definite dichotomy when it comes to liking this alcoholic tomato soup but nonetheless... Bloody Marys are a staple brunch beverage. Whether you are nursing a hangover, or just want some tequila with your veggies, enjoy!

As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 
This recipe makes 1 drink!  Let's get started!
 

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Jalapeño pepper (1-2 slices)
1 Celery Stalk
2 Lime Slices
1 Cucumber (1 slice)

For Drink
1 ounce Tequila
6 ounce 100% Tomato Juice
2 dashes Celery Salt
1/2 ounce Lime Juice
2 dashes Worcestershire Sauce
1/2 teaspoon Agave Nectar
 

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. Add ice to a highball glass.
  2. Add 2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce and celery salt.
  3. Add jalapeño slice(s) and cucumber slice.
  4. Add lime juice and agave nectar.
  5. Add Tequila.
  6. Add tomato juice.
  7. Stir lightly.
  8. Add remaining garnish of lime slices & celery stalk.

 

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Relax & Enjoy!

 

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"Life is not merely being alive, but being well."
-Marcus Valerius Martialis


 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bloody maria bloody mary tequila tomato juice https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/1/mixology-monday-with-the-leveretts---bloody-maria Mon, 27 Jan 2020 20:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Classic Gin & Tonic https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/1/mixology-monday-with-the-leveretts---classic-gin-tonic Hey there!

We place equal stock in elaborate things done well and simple things done simply. This week we are sharing a simple classic that only requires 3 ingredients and just happens to be Frank’s favorite drink to unwind. When life throws us complexity, comfort can be found in found in the simple.

Enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 
This recipe makes 2 drinks!  Let's get started!

 

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Lime slices
 

For Drink
4 oz. Botanical Gin (e.g., Hendricks)
4 oz Tonic Water

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In a rocks-tumbler glass add ice.
  2. Next pour in 2 oz. Gin followed by 2 oz. Tonic Water. 
  3. Give it a gentle stir & add your lime slice garnish.

(If using a fresh lime, take the end which was cut off and give it a light squeeze over the drink.)

 

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“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication..."
-Leonardo da Vinci 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) g&t gin lime tonic https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/1/mixology-monday-with-the-leveretts---classic-gin-tonic Mon, 20 Jan 2020 17:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Black & Blue Berry Mashed Mojito Mocktail (No Alcohol) https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/1/black-blue-berry-mashed-mojito-mocktail Happy Monday!

Here's one for the whole family to try! A black and blue berry mashed mojito mocktail... say that 5 times fast! This week we chose to share a mocktail, an alcohol free beverage and it is soooo good! Don't worry... we have also included the swap in case you were not in the mood for a virgin drink today. :)

We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 
This recipe makes 2 drinks!  Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Lime Wedges
2 Mint Leaves
 

For Drink
4-6 Blackberries
16-20 Blueberries
1 Cup Sparkling Water
1 Cup Club Soda
4-8 Fresh Mint Leaves
2 Teaspoons Granulated Sugar
1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice (1 Medium/Large Lime Squeezed)
1 Cup Crushed Ice

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In a tall tumbler or highball glass add:
    • 2 to 3 blackberries
    • 8 to 10 blueberries 
    • 2 to 4 fresh mint leaves 
  2. Mash that mixture to a juicy pulp (a muddler works best for this)
  3. Next, pour in your crushed ice (1/2 Cup) 
  4. Add 2 tsp. sugar
  5. Add 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice  
  6. Finally, add 1/2 cup sparkling water and 1/2 cup club soda 
  7. Give drink a light stir to distribute the berries and mint mash

Note: For a more spirited beverage, swap out the sparkling water in each drink for 2.5 oz. of clear Rum & an additional 1/3 cup of Club Soda.

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Let's Garnish:

Add your mint leaf and lime wedge garnish and enjoy!

 

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“I hope you realize that every day is a fresh start for you. That every sunrise is a new chapter in your life waiting to be written.”
― Juansen Dizon
 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) blackberry blueberry dry january low abv mint mocktail muddled https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/1/black-blue-berry-mashed-mojito-mocktail Mon, 13 Jan 2020 18:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Bloody Good Old Fashioned https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/1/mixology-monday-with-the-leveretts---bloody-good-old-fashioned Call us old-fashioned (pun intended) but after celebrating the new year we like to reflect about simpler times. That nostalgia inspired this weeks mixed drink choice. The Old Fashioned is one of the first cocktails first created in the late 1800s. A combination of spirits, bitters, sugar, and water this drink is not for the timid and is best enjoyed reminiscing with old friends or making memories with new ones.

We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 
This recipe makes 2 drinks!  Let's get started!

 

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Bourbon Cherries
2 Blood Orange 2 inch x 1 inch skin shavings
2 Large Ice Cubes (or Spheres)
2 toothpicks
2 Rocks tumbler glasses
 

For Drink
4oz. Rye Whiskey
2oz. Vanilla Flavored Simple Syrup (to make your own, [10-12 minute process] see our previous post: click here)
2 Blood Orange half slices
2 Bourbon Cherries
2-4 Drops of Bitters
 

 

Let's Start the Garnish:

  1. Peel 2 strips of blood orange skin, 2 inch x 1 inch. Also cut 2 slices of blood orange and set aside for later.
  2. Wrap each cherry with the blood orange skin. 
  3. Skewer wrapped cherry with toothpick and set aside.

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. Place ice in each rocks tumbler glass.
  2. Add one cherry.
  3. Add one half slice of blood orange.
  4. Pour in 2 ounces of rye whiskey.
  5. Pour in 1 ounce vanilla simple syrup. 
  6. Add 2 (or so) drops of bitters.
  7. Stir lightly with stirring spoon.
  8. Add garnish from earlier, and enjoy!

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"Life Is Short, Break The Rules. Forgive Quickly, Kiss Slowly. Love Truly. Laugh Uncontrollably And Never Regret Anything That Makes You Smile."
~Mark Twain

 

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) blood orange old fashioned whiskey https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/1/mixology-monday-with-the-leveretts---bloody-good-old-fashioned Mon, 06 Jan 2020 20:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Vanilla Bean Simple Syrup https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/1/mixology-monday-with-the-leveretts---vanilla-bean-simple-syrup Hey there!

This particular blog post is not a drink recipe, but for a common component in many mixed drinks. Simple syrup is a sweetener used in cocktails. You can of course purchase simple syrup-- but making your own is very easy and the combinations are endless. We will be making vanilla bean simple syrup but feel free to swap out the vanilla for lavender, cinnamon, rosemary or whatever you'd like. We thought this process deserved its own post-- so here it is! 

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Here's what you need:

1 Vanilla Bean (may substitute w/ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
1 Cup Sugar
1 Cup Water
1 Teaspoon Vodka
 

Let's Start:

  1. Slice bean with a pairing knife and use back of knife or blade to strip seeds away from husk. Set aside the bean contents. Keep the husk for later use. Alternatively, you can simply set aside 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
  2. In a small sauce pan add sugar, water, and vanilla bean content (or pure vanilla extract). 
  3. Heat to a boil about 10 to 12 minutes and set aside to cool. 
  4. To store, Pour the Sauce pan contents into a seal-able glass container and add 1 teaspoon of vodka. Refrigerate. 

    Tip: If you need to make more or less simple syrup, the measurements for water & sugar are 1:1, so just keep your measurements even.

Oh! Also if you love coffee like us, take the vanilla bean husks from earlier and soak them in some water overnight. Add a few drops of that liquid to your cup in the morning for a healthier flavor option! Yummy!
 

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Easy Peasy! :)

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) simple syrup sweetener vanilla https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2020/1/mixology-monday-with-the-leveretts---vanilla-bean-simple-syrup Mon, 06 Jan 2020 03:30:33 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Bitter Sweet NYE Cocktail https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/12/bitter-sweet-nye-cocktail "We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day." 
-Edith Lovejoy Pierce


The ending of another year, another decade and welcoming a new one can be bitter sweet. So is this take on a classic sparkling wine cocktail. This recipe calls for aromatic bitters. There are many types of bitters; they are made from botanicals, herbs, nuts, roots or fruit and are combined with flavorless alcohol. We used the most popular version, Angostura Bitters, when making this cocktail but if you would like a stronger orange flavor, use  orange peel bitters instead. We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 4 drinks and can easily be scaled up for any sized NYE party! Let's get started!

 

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
4 Sugar Cubes
1 Orange 
Aromatic Bitters

 

For Drink
1 Bottle of Sparkling Wine 
Champagne Flutes
 

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Let's Start the Garnish:

  1. Grab your sugar cubes. You will need 1 for each glass you make.
  2. Add several drops of bitters to each cube.  (several drops per side)
  3. Place one cube in each champagne flute.
  4. Create small strips of orange peel 2-3 inches long and set aside.

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. Pour sparkling wine over sugar cube.
  2. Add one freshly made orange peel strip to each glass.
  3. Toast to 2020! Happy New Year!

Pro Tip: The next morning, you can most definitely use your remaining orange and sparkling wine for mimosas!

 

"Cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right."
-Oprah Winfrey

 

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“In the New Year, never forget to thank to your past years because they enabled you to reach today! Without the stairs of the past, you cannot arrive at the future!”
― Mehmet Murat ildan
 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bitters champagne orange prosecco sparkling wine https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/12/bitter-sweet-nye-cocktail Mon, 30 Dec 2019 15:00:00 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - A Grinch-tini https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/12/a-grinchtini Twas the day of Christmas Eve, Eve,

it was Mixology Monday all through the nation;

tired adults longed for a day off,

and all Whos in Whoville wanted libations!!

~Nicole Leverett


For some it takes a little longer to get into the holiday spirit-- we may or may not be talking about ourselves. LOL If you feel the same and are ready to devise a plan to cancel the holidays.... give this recipe a try! We guarantee your heart will grow at least two sizes and you'll change your mind! We hope you enjoy! As always, if you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
2 Bourbon Cherries (may substitute Maraschino Cherries)
2 Raspberries
2 Apple Slices 
2 Green Grapes
2 Martini Picks 

For Drink
3 oz. Midori
2 oz. Gin (may substitute Vodka)
2 oz. Fresh Squeezed Lemon Juice (~1 Lemon)
1 oz. Dry or Extra-Dry Vermouth
 

 

Let's Start the Garnish:

  1. Make your apple slices approximately 1/2 inch thick and cut into a circle, about the diameter of a quarter.
  2. Dip your apple slices in a little lemon juice to prevent them from turning brown. Set aside.
  3. Set aside your cherries, raspberries and grapes.

(Note: Our garnish does not have a white tassel for the santa hat, if you wish to add, you can either use a small marshmallow or a a smaller piece of apple; have fun!)

 

Let's Make the Drink:

  1. In a shaker cup add the following
    • Several Ice Cubes
    • Midori
    • Lemon Juice
    • Gin
    • Vermouth
  2. Shake for 10-20 seconds
  3. Using strainer, pour equally between 2 martini glasses
  4. Add a Grinchy heart to each glass (1 bourbon cherry; we used the Sable & Rosenfeld brand of tipsy cherries)
  5. Add Santy Claus Grinch (Skewer Raspberry, Apple and Grape)
  6. Enjoy!!

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We truly wish you and your family a holiday season full of love and laughter!

 


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Please Drink Responsibly.

“Why, my sweet little Who” the fake Bartender lied, “There’s an olive in this martini with only one eye. “So I’m taking it back to the bar, my dear. I’ll fix it over there. Then I’ll bring it back here.” His fib fooled The Who. Then he took the martini and plotted instead. He got her a “Grinch-tini, and he sent her to bed."
-Frank Leverett (Adapted from Dr Seuss’s - How The Grinch Stole Christmas)

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) christmas dry martini gin how the grinch stole christmas lemon martini midori vermouth https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/12/a-grinchtini Mon, 23 Dec 2019 21:56:09 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Hot Body Toddy https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/12/mixology-mondays-hot-body-toddy Hello and welcome back!

We are back again this fine Monday... this time with a cold. Whomp whomp! So we thought this would the perfect time to share our version of a hot toddy... a hot body toddy! Hot toddies are typically made with whiskey however they can also be made with bourbon, scotch or brandy. Our version uses the latter and we had some fun with the garnish. This is a hot drink in case you weren't sure. You can use any mug you'd like; if you use a glass mug be sure its rated for hot temperatures. Safety first! :)  We hope you enjoy! If you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @ staynfocusimages 


This recipe makes 2 drinks. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1 Lemon Slice
Several Whole Cloves
2 Mint Leaves
2 Sugar Crystal Sticks

For Drink
2 oz Brandy
2 Cups Hot Water
Loose Tea / Tea Bags
Honey

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Let's Start the Garnish:

  1. Actually let's put the tea kettle on first.
  2. Halve your lemon slice and stick a few cloves into each half. Set aside
  3. Set aside your two mint leaves and sugar sticks. 

(Note: You can DIY your sugar sticks if you want-- just a heads up it can take days for the crystals to form to the size you want.)

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Let's Make the Drink:

  1. Add 1 ounce Brandy
  2. Pour 1 cup of hot water over your tea bag/steeper. Let Steep for 3-5 minutes or however your prefer.
  3. Add 1 honey dipper's worth of honey (approx 1 tablespoon)
  4. Add one half of your lemon slice (with the cloves)
  5. Add a mint leaf and your sugar stick. (Sugar stick can be removed when ideal sweetness is reached)
  6. Wrap yourself in a blanket and sit in front of a fireplace (or space heater lol) 
  7. Enjoy!!

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Please Drink Responsibly.

 

“Prevention is so much better than healing because it saves the labor of being sick."
-Thomas Adams (American Inventor)

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) brandy honey hot hot toddy lemon mint tea toddy https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/12/mixology-mondays-hot-body-toddy Mon, 16 Dec 2019 17:39:41 GMT
Mixology Monday With The Leveretts - Holiday Mule https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/12/mixology-monday-holiday-mule Hello!

My husband and I are doing a thing! We will be sharing a cocktail with you every Monday! Everything we share will be our own interpretation; his recipes, my images. We hope you enjoy! If you make any of our drinks, take a picture and share them with us online! Instagram ---> @staynfocusimages 

As you'll soon find out, we love a garnish that is not only pretty... but also elevates the drink. All of our recipes will have two parts, the garnish and the drink! This week we will kick things off with a Cranberry Holiday Mule. You will want proper mule mugs for this drink. This just means that they are made out of copper, usually hammered. You may find mule mugs that are made of copper and have a lining on the inside OR are pressed from a sheet of copper (with or without non-copper lining). These are fine as they provide the same benefit of keeping your drink cool.
This recipe will make two drinks because we believe no one should drink alone. Let's get started!

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Here's what you need:

For Garnish
1/2 Cup Fresh Cranberries (approx 30 cranberries)
1/8 Cup Granulated Sugar (plus a tablespoon or so to coat cranberries at the end)
1/4 Cup Water
1/4 Cup cranberry juice
2 Lime Wedges
Fresh Rosemary Sprigs

For Drink
4oz Vodka
1oz Lime Juice
3oz Cranberry Juice
4oz Ginger Beer (non alcoholic)
2 Copper Mule Mugs
Ice

 

Let's Start the Garnish:

  1. Add fresh cranberries, sugar, water and 1 rosemary sprig to sauce pan and heat to evaporate 1/4 - 1/2 of the water. (about 8-10 minutes)
  2. When half of the liquid has evaporated, take cranberries out and place in ice water to cool then in refrigerator to chill for at least 15 minutes.
  3. Keep remaining syrup. Skip to the Drink steps below while cranberries are chilling in the fridge.
  4. (After at least 15 minutes) Skewer 3 to 5 of the now chilled cranberries on a toothpick and coat with granulated sugar.
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Let's Make the Drink:
In each mug you will want to: 

  1. Add ice.
  2. 2 ounces of vodka.
  3. 1/2 ounce of lime juice
  4. 2 ounces of non-alcoholic ginger beer
  5. 1/2 ounces of cranberry juice. If you choose to prepare the garnish above, you can add the cranberry syrup you set aside to make up the 1/2 oz (our preference)
  6. Turn lightly (as opposed to a vigorous stir or shake).

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Almost Done!

  1. Take one lime wedge sliced through the middle about 3/4  to the rind and rub around lip of mule mug before placing in the mug.
  2. Add a fresh sprig of rosemary
  3. Revisit step 4 from the garnish preparation and add skewered cranberries on top of the drink.
  4. ENJOY! Add smiles, jokes, and good cheer.

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Please Drink Responsibly.

 

"He that drinks fast, pays slow."
-Benjamin Franklin

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) cranberries cranberry cranberry mule ginger beer lime mule rosemary vodka https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/12/mixology-monday-holiday-mule Mon, 09 Dec 2019 17:00:00 GMT
Wedding Details https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/11/Wedding_Details Hello and welcome back!

Earlier this year (February 1st) My husband put a ring on it, LOL. Right away we knew we didn't want a long engagement or a super huge wedding. By March we had decided on a pop-up elopement in San Francisco with just our close family in attendance. We hired a pop up wedding planner and our package included everything we wanted and needed to make our day, November 8th 2019, amazing. That being said, even though we had a photographer and videographer booked, I could not resist taking some detail pictures of my own! I mean, all photographers do this... right?! Here are some of my favorites.


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this last shot was actually taken by my sister after setting the camera settings and coaching her on where to stand and how to focus! :)

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bridge details elopement flowers francisco gate golden landscape macro nature photography san wedding https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/11/Wedding_Details Sat, 30 Nov 2019 16:00:12 GMT
Bug Photographer https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/10/bug-photographer Hello and welcome back!

 

Soon after getting my latest camera, I made a point to try to shoot something everyday. I would take my camera with me everywhere, most often leaving my telephoto lens on so I was always "ready". Most of the time I would walk around my neighborhood or around the campus at work looking for a shot-- which would end up being flowers or other interesting plants... and BUGS. I'm not particularly a girly girl... but not exactly a tom boy and frankly bug are icky. LOL However, I soon learned to appreciate the delicate details of each critter I came across because I had never seen their beauty before. Here are some of my favorite images.

Enjoy!


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Catch you next time!

Nikki

Stay N Focus

 

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) bugs bumble bee butterfly cricket flowers grasshopper landscape monarch butterfly nature river front spider tiger tail butterfly https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/10/bug-photographer Wed, 30 Oct 2019 19:10:19 GMT
My First Photo Walk https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/10/my-first-photo-walk Hello and welcome to my website!

This year, 2019, I decided to  take photography seriously. I love being creative and while my life has been filled with many wonderful people and things; I found that I was lacking a creative project in my life. So-- I bought a camera and a ton of gear! I started shooting but of course wasn't quite sure what I was doing-- so I enrolled in a few courses! I'm still very much in the learning process and I'm enjoying every moment. The following images were some of my favorites from my first time out with the camera. This day taught me to travel with my telephoto lens at all times! LOL Stick with me and see how my photography skills evolve.


July 7th 2019 - Burlington Riverfront - Burlington, NJ

Canon Rebel EOS SL2

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Such a beautiful day!

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I wish i had my telephoto lens to capture this Tiger Tail Butterfly up close! At the time, my camera bag didn't have enough space for all of my lenses... SMH I corrected that problem immediately!

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Ended the walk with a stroll through the local antique store!

Now that summer has ended, I'm glad I got to capture its beauty in a different way. 2019 has been a very special year!

 

Catch you next time!

Nikki

Stay N Focus

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(Nicole J. Leverett for Stay N Focus) burlington butterfly flowers landscape nature river river front summer https://www.staynfocus.com/blog/2019/10/my-first-photo-walk Tue, 01 Oct 2019 21:00:39 GMT