FOODIE FRIDAY -- V is also for VODKA

Vodka is a distilled spirit made from grains or potatoes. It originated in Eastern Europe--Russia and Poland, to be exact, but is now made all across the globe. With the resurgence of the Martini and Cocktail Culture, Vodka is more popular than ever. In fact, Vodka is currently the the most popular spirit in the world.

Vodka is appreciated for its mix-ability and smooth neutral taste. Happy to share recipes for a few cocktails featuring Vodka!

BLOODY MARY

1 1/2 oz. Vodka
1/4 oz. Lemon Juice
2 dashes Worcestershire Sauce
2 - 6 drops Tabasco (to taste)
1/4 - 1/2 tsp Horseradish (optional)
1 pinch Celery Salt
Salt & Pepper to taste
Fill with Tomato or V-8 Juice

Combine in a Collins or Bucket glass filled with ice.
Stir Well
Garnish with a lime or lemon squeeze, and ...
any of these - celery stick, olive, marinated string bean, kosher pickle, boiled shrimp

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COSMOPOLITAN

1 1/2 oz vodka
1/2 oz. Cointreau or Gran Mariner (orange liqueur)
3/4 oz. Cranberry Juice
1/4 oz. Lime Juice

Combine all ingredients in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well.
Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a twist of orange peel, if desired

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MELON BALL

1 oz. Vodka
1 oz. Midori (melon liqueur)
Orange or Pineapple Juice
Maraschino Cherry

Pour vodka into a collins glass filled with ice, fill almost with orange or pineapple juice, float Midori and stir gently. Garnish with the maraschino cherry and a slice of orange or pineapple if desired.

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Of course, vintage barware is a must for concocting and serving these Vodka cocktails. The etsy vintage team members have plenty available--from cocktail shakers, to glasses, to that perfect little black dress!!