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      How To Do The Festive Season Sober, Plus The 15 Best Alcohol-Free Drinks

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      SoberSeptember, OcSober, DryJanuary or even going #StraightEdge (no stimulants at all!) – there’s no end to the sober bandwagons you can jump on. Whether it’s for health and fitness reasons, a way to detox and reset or manage your tolerance levels, many people are opting to ditch the booze and embrace a teetotalling lifestyle. Here’s what you need to know about having a sober festive season.

      The Sober Trend

      According to Janet Gourand, founder of Tribe Sober, a South African membership programme helping people change their relationship with alcohol, they have seen more people wanting to decrease their consumption of alcohol or cut alcohol out completely lately.

      And women are leading the charge. Gourand says that 80% of those in Tribe Sober are women with most of the women being 40+ but despite that, there is still a trend for younger women to drink less. Plus, local non-alcoholic G&T brand The Duchess reported that 74% of its buyers are women between 18 and 34 years old.

      The truth is many millennials are driving a huge trend towards cutting booze completely – or never starting. Hashtags like #SoberSaturday and #SoberLife (over two million tags on Insta) are being seen more and more and form part of what has been dubbed the “sober curious” movement. The number of alcohol drinkers in the world has decreased by nearly five percent since 2000, according to reports by the World Health Organisation.

      In fact, 49% of Women’s Health readers said they would buy non-alcoholic beers or cider (up from 34% when we asked you in 2019), while 31% said they would be choosing Castle Free over Castle Lite this festive season. 47% of Women’s Health readers said if they were offered non-alcoholic wines – that actually taste good – they’d try it.

      READ MORE: Mindful Drinking: How More And More People Are Becoming ‘Sober Curious’

      Reasons To Have A Sober Festive Season

      According to Gourand, the stress and the “working from home” impact of the pandemic have created more dependence on alcohol.  “People who would only use alcohol for ‘socialising’ have now discovered that they enjoy drinking alone and their drinking has become more about self-medicating their anxiety than having fun,” she says.

      This has been dubbed “Grey Area” drinking and it has seen an increase since the pandemic. Healthline describes “grey area” drinking as the realm between healthy levels of alcohol consumption and a diagnosed alcohol use disorder. 

      It’s no secret that South Africa is known as a drinking nation, with 2.1% of total household spending in South Africa going to beer, according to Stats SA (only 1.5% is going to veggies). And the festive season is a period that sees a dramatic increase in consumption. But many people, even South Africans, are taking the downsides of drinking alcohol more seriously.

      “People are becoming aware that drinking more than a bottle and a half of wine a week puts their mental and physical health at risk.  The wellness trend is resulting in more people eating organic, doing yoga and meditation and they are realising that drinking alcohol doesn’t really fit in with this lifestyle,” explains Gourand.

      READ MORE: 17 Super-Stylish Stocking Fillers & Gifts Under R150 – That Aren’t Socks

      The Sober Life

      “The smart people are getting sober curious.  The wine industry has been marketing directly to women for the last 25 years – and they have been stunningly successful.  Many women cannot imagine having fun or socialising without it.  As many women get older the fun turns to self-medication and drinking alone,” says Gourand. 

      If you want to change your relationship with alcohol, finding your tribe helps. “Community is a big part of recovery,” says Gourand. In his TED Talk, writer and journalist Johann Hari explains the science behind the fact that connection is the opposite of addiction.

      “There is so much shame around drinking (especially for women) that joining a community of others with the same issue is a huge relief and we feel less alone.  We learn so much from hearing about other people’s experiences and as we progress in our alcohol-free journey we are able to inspire others,” explains Gourand.

      “Even if people are just “sober curious” or not even sure that they want to make a change they can join a tribe, listen and learn and it will help them decide which direction to take,” she says.

      READ MORE: The Top Gifts WH Team Want Under The Tree This Season

      Tips For Going Sober

      Janet Gourand has been sober since 2015, leading her tribe at Tribe Sober and inspiring people to have an alcohol-free life. These are three tips for people who are sober curious or looking to cut down their alcohol consumption:  

      1) “Take a look at your life”

      “What would it look like without alcohol in it?  If all your social activities involve drinking then it’s time for a change.  The first step is to increase your awareness – keep a drinks diary and note your consumption.  Are you drinking more than the low-risk limit of a bottle and a half of wine a week?”

      2) “Take an alcohol-free challenge – at least a month.”

      “If you can get through it easily then you are probably fine.  If not (or if you can’t even contemplate taking a break) then it’s time to make some changes.  Join a group like Tribe Sober to connect with others who are looking to quit drinking and to learn to thrive in their alcohol-free lives.”  

      3) “Start discovering the vast choice of alcohol-free drinks.” 

      “Try everything and you will find your go-to alcohol-free choice.  Integrate that into your lifestyle.  Alternate it with alcoholic drinks when you go out and make sure you have at least 4 alcohol-free days a week.”

      The Best Alcohol-Free Drinks For Adults

      Designated driver, watching your calorie intake, fitness stole your alcohol tolerance or realising it might be time to cut back? Going booze-free is a health trend that celebs, brands and just about everyone else is getting behind! 

      Below you’ll find the best wine, gin, beer and cider 0.0 versions. With half the calories and no need for a stash of painkillers in your bedside drawer, your sober summer is sorted!

      If you like fruity beer, try Bavaria 0.0% Pomegranate.

      If you like light lagers or Pilsners, try Beck’s Blue.

      If you like Castle, or lagers in general, try Castle Free Alcohol-Free Lager.

      If you like IPA, try Devil’s Peak Zero to Hero.

      If you like Weiss beer, try Erdinger Alkoholfrei.

      If you’re a Heineken gal, try Heineken 0.0.

      If you like an aperitif, try Babylonstoren BitterLekker.

      If you like gin and tonic, try The Duchess Virgin Gin & Tonic.

      If you like gin cocktails, try Seedlip Garden 108.

      If you like red wine, try Van Loveren Radiant Red Almost Zero % Alcohol.

      If you like white wine, try Natura De-Alcoholised Classic White.

      If you like bubbly, try Lautus De-Alcoholised Sparkling.

      If you like cider, try Savanna Non-Alcoholic Lemon.

      If you like a full-bodied beer, try Non-Alcoholic Super Bock 0.0%.

      If you like mocktails, try Fehmz Mocktails in various flavours.

      Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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      The Easy Trout Tartare Recipe You’ll Be Making All Summer Long

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      This refreshing trout tartare recipe requires minimal prep and no cooking. A few quality ingredients and you have a crowd-pleasing, effortless appetiser.

      READ MORE: 5 Healthier ‘Adult’ Ice Lollies To Eat If You’re Watching Your Weight

      Trout is a super underrated summer protein. It’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin B6 and B12, selenium and niacin. And what could be better than hitting your protein goals with silky diced fish seasoned with zesty lime, sesame oil, spring onions, chives and a hint of chilli?

      READ MORE: Try These Veggie Sosaties Even Meat Lovers Will Love

      Try This Delicious Trout Tartare Recipe

      Trout Tartare

      This refreshing recipe requires minimal prep and no cooking. A few quality ingredients and you have a crowd-pleasing, effortless appetiser. Because what could be better than silky diced fish seasoned with zesty lime, sesame oil, spring onions, chives and a hint of chilli?

      Prep Time 15 minutes mins

      Course AppetizerCuisine Healthy

      Servings 6 people

      400 g Boneless, skinless trout (or salmon)1 Shallot, sliced into super-thin rings2 Spring onions, finely sliced1 Tbsp Chives, finely chopped2-3 Limes, one cut into six thin wedges2 tsp Sesame oil1 Tbsp Extra-virgin olive oil, plus extraPinch chilli flakesFresh tarragon or flat-leaf parsley leaves, for garnishingSalt and freshly ground black pepper
      Slice the trout into one-centimetre pieces.Place the shallot, spring onions and chives in a glass bowl. Then add the zest from one lime and one tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice, as well as the sesame oil, one tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of chilli flakes. Whisk to combine, then add the fish, tossing to combine. Next, taste to check the flavour and add more lime juice, if needed.Divide the tartare between six small plates or bowls and garnish each with a few tarragon or parsley leaves, a drizzle of olive oil and a thin lime wedge.Season with salt and pepper and serve.

      Keyword Easy Meals, fish, Healthy Recipes, No-Cook Recipes More

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      How To Make Perfectly Baked Sweet Potatoes Every Time

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      Let’s be honest, we’ve all had a severely undercooked or overcooked baked sweet potato. Well, you’ll never have either again thanks to our recipe that shows you exactly how to bake sweet potatoes to ensure they’re delicious every single time. Thank us later!

      READ MORE: You Need To Make This Yummy Cauliflower Recipe With A South African Twist

      Everyone loves garlicky, well-spiced potatoes. And you’re going to love these sweet potatoes even more. With very few steps, you’ll be able to pop these in the oven and basically forget about them. Who doesn’t love a fuss-free recipe?

      READ MORE: Try These Veggie Sosaties Even Meat Lovers Will Love

      Whole Baked Baby Sweet Potatoes

      Everyone loves garlicky, well-spiced potatoes. And you’re going to love these sweet potatoes even more. With very few steps, you’ll be able to pop these in the oven and basically forget about them. We love fuss-free recipes!

      Prep Time 8 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

      Course Side DishCuisine Healthy

      Servings 6 people

      12 baby sweet potatoes, scrubbed clean and patted dryOlive oil1 tsp Smoked paprika1 tsp Salt 1 tsp Freshly ground black pepper1 Clove Garlic, sliced into thin slices
      Preheat the oven to 180˚C and line a large tray with parchment paper.Place the baby potatoes, about two tablespoons olive oil and the spices in a large mixing bowl. Massage the oil and spices into the skin of the potatoes before placing the potatoes on the baking tray. Bake for one hour or until the potatoes are cooked through and the skins are caramelised in areas. Don’t forget to turn the potatoes once about halfway through the cooking time.Sauté the garlic slices in a little olive oil until just turning golden, then remove immediately from the heat.Remove the potatoes from the oven and serve on a platter drizzled with the garlic slices and oil from the pan.

      Keyword Easy Meals, Healthy Recipes, vegetarian More

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      The Mouthwatering Salad Recipe Everyone Will Ask You To Share With Them

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      Every person needs that one salad that none of your guests can get enough of and every guest demands the recipe for. This will be that dish. Fresh, crunchy and perfect for South African summer, this is the best green salad recipe. And it’s guaranteed to be on your table every year from now.

      READ MORE: This Creamy Kale Pasta Recipe Features Cottage Cheese As A Secret Ingredient

      It’s packed full of uber delicious green veggies like asparagus, green beans, edamame beans, tenderstem broccoli and baby spinach. This certainly isn’t your grandma’s green salad and you’ll thank us for the upgrade.

      READ MORE: Try This Trendy And Delicious Vegetarian Orzo Pasta Recipe Now

      The Best Green Salad Recipe You’ll Ever Make

      Asparagus, Bean and Tenderstem Broccoli Salad

      Every person needs that one salad that none of your guests can get enough of and every guest demands the recipe for. This will be that dish. Fresh, crunchy and perfect for South African summer, this is guaranteed to be on your table every year from now.

      Cook Time 5 minutes mins

      Course SaladCuisine Healthy

      Servings 6 people

      200 g Asparagus (sliced into 3cm pieces)200 g Green beans (sliced into 3cm pieces)200 g Edamame beans200 g Tenderstem broccoli (sliced into 3cm pieces)50 g Baby spinach leaves2 Tbsp Sesame seeds, toastedFor The Dressing:1 Shallot or small red onion, very finely sliced into rings1 Pinch Chilli flakes1 tsp Sesame oil2 Tbsp Olive oilJuice and zest of half a lemonSalt and pepper
      Blanch the asparagus, beans and broccoli in hot water for a few minutes. When just cooked, transfer to ice-cold water before placing in a colander to drain.Whisk the dressing ingredients together, then toss the blanched veggies and spinach together in a large bowl with the salad dressing and toasted sesame seeds.Plate on a large platter and serve.

      Keyword Easy Meals, healthy, vegetarian More

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      Easy Summer Mocktails For The Festive Season

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      Mocktails are proof that virgin drinks don’t have to be boring. They embody all the fun and creativity of their alcoholic counterparts, minus the booze. You can customise them to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions easily. Whether you’re looking for a fruity explosion in your mouth or a tangy citrus sensation, there’s a mocktail out there for everyone. Check out these low-alc (and basically zero-effort!) drinks for summer

      Grapefruit And Rosemary Mimosas

      Grapefruit packs in a lot of nutrition but it is lauded for its high vitamin C content. Studies have found that this citrus fruit may help control insulin levels, meaning it can reduce likelihood of becoming insulin resistant. Grapefruits can add much-needed zestiness and flavour to everything from cocktails to salads.

      Grapefruit And Rosemary Mimosas

      The beauty of this mocktail lies in its simplicity; there are no complicated steps or fancy ingredients involved. It’s all about highlighting the natural flavours of grapefruit and Absolute Zero complementing with herby accents from rosemary.

      Prep Time 15 minutes mins

      Servings 4

      250 ml Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice500 ml Absolute Zero
      Place ice into 4 glasses Top with ¼ cup grapefruit juice Pour ½ cup Absolute ZeroAdd fresh rosemary sprig Garnish the glass with a grapefruit segment

      READ MORE: Make These 4 Low-Calorie Cocktails If You’re Watching Your Weight

      Spicy Passion Fruit Sangria

      Passion fruit, the tantalising tropical delight that bursts with a vibrant explosion of flavour, has essential minerals such as potassium and iron to support heart health and maintain optimal blood circulation. Despite its small size, it’s rich in antioxidants, fibre and vitamins.

      Spicy Passion Fruit Sangria

      If you’re looking for a mocktail that will tantalises your taste buds and cools you down simultaneously, reach for this spicy cooler. It’s guaranteed to become your go-to summer drink!

      Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes mins

      Servings 4

      Ingredients For Spicy Passion Fruit Compote8 Granadillas 1 Cinnamon stick2  Star aniseIngredients For Sangria60 ml Spicy passion fruit compote1 Pineapple, peeled and cut into triangles250 ml Sparkling water500 ml Absolute Zero 
      Method For Spicy Passion Fruit CompotPlace all ingredients into a small potCook for 5 minutes on highThen turn heat down to low and simmer for 15 minutesAllow to coolMethod For SangriaPlace ice, pineapple pieces, spicy passion fruit compote, cinnamon quills and star anise into a large jugPour over sparkling water and Absolute ZeroServe cold and enjoy

      READ MORE: 5 Low-Calorie Smoothie Recipes That Legit Taste Like Milkshakes

      Classic Mojito

      Mint, with its refreshing aroma and invigorating taste, offers an array of benefits that extend beyond mere sensory pleasure. Mint is a good source of antioxidants and vitamin A, although it is not typically consumed in large quantities.

      Classic Mojito

      Ready to quench your thirst with a burst of refreshing citrus? Look no further than this invigorating mocktail. This delightful classic drink combines the zesty flavours of lime and mint, making it the perfect drink for a hot summer day.

      Prep Time 5 minutes mins

      Servings 4

      20 ml Agave syrup250 ml Soda water500 ml Absolute Zero NectarServe WithCrushed iceLime slicesFresh mint leaves
      Place crushed ice, lime slices and mint leaves into a large jugUsing a wooden pestle or spoon smash the ingredients to bring out their flavoursTop with the soda water, Absolute Zero Nectar and agave syrup

      Mira Weiner

      Mira is an entrepreneur, food consultant and plant-based advocate.  She’s passionate about conscious living, plant-based nourishment and holistic healing.  She’s a networker, creative cook and country pumpkin who hopes to inspire people to eat more plants which is better for the planet, animals and our bodies.  More

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      Here’s Exactly How To Make Beef Tagliata (It’s Way Easier Than You Think)

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      This Beef Tagliata recipe is light and succulent and perfectly complemented by sweet and flavourful roasted Rosa tomatoes.

      READ MORE: I Tried 3 Viral Recipes And Here’s How It Panned Out

      As the temps soar, it’s time to try out some new recipes. And this Beef Tagliata recipe is going to be a summer staple thanks to how easy it is to make. All you need is a good quality, grass-fed beef fillet (get some from Woolworths), a few other ingredients and the know how which you’ll find below. Bon appetit!

      READ MORE: Fire Up The Braai For This Peri Peri Chicken With Crèma

      Beef Tagliata with Roasted Rosa Tomatoes

      This Beef Tagliata is light and succulent and perfectly complemented by sweet and flavourful roasted Rosa tomatoes. Bon appetit!

      Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes mins

      Course Main CourseCuisine Healthy

      Servings 6 people

      800 g Good-quality grass-fed beef fillet600 g Baby tomatoes, roastedOlive oilSalt and pepper4 Handfuls Rocket⅓ Cup Pine nuts, dry-toastedFor The Marinade:2 Tbsp Rosemary leavesA few Bay leaves4 Cloves Garlic, peeled2 Tbsp Extra-virgin olive oilFor The Dressing:1 tsp Mustard 1 tsp Honey1 Tbsp Balsamic vinegar2 Tbsp Olive oil
      To make the marinade, pound all the ingredients until roughly smashed. Massage into the meat and leave in the fridge, covered, overnight.Bring fillet to room temperature. Place the fillet over a high heat and grill for at least four minutes on one side before turning over. Once your fillet is cooked to your liking, set aside to rest before slicing. In order to get really thin slices, place the fillet into the freezer for 30 minutes. Because the cold stiffens the meat, you’ll be able to slice more precisely. Then allow the meat to come back to room temperature.Place the rocket on a serving platter and scatter the roasted tomatoes over the leaves. Layer the fillet.Mix all the dressing ingredients together. Drizzle over the steak before scattering over the toasted pine nuts. Season and serve.

      Keyword beef, Healthy Recipes, salad More

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      5 Healthier ‘Adult’ Ice Lollies To Eat If You’re Watching Your Weight

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      The latest trend to have at your summer cocktail soiree or your New Year’s Eve party is to serve your drinks frozen. Think margarita… but more lick-able.

      Here are some awesome recipes to make at home this silly season:

      1. Saucy watermelon

      Blitz 2 handfuls of watermelon with 2 shots of vodka in a Nutribullet. Pour into ice lolly moulds and freeze overnight.

      2. Strawberrylicious

      Place 10 strawberries, a squeeze of lemon juice, 2 tsp honey and 2 shots of vodka in a Nutribullet and blitz to combine. Pour into ice lolly moulds and freeze overnight.

      READ MORE: Make These 4 Low-Calorie Cocktails If You’re Watching Your Weight

      3. Pina colada

      Blitz 1/4 cup coconut milk with 1 pineapple (chopped) and 3 shots of rum in a blender. Pour into ice lolly moulds and freeze overnight.

      4. Kinky kiwi gin

      Place 2 large kiwis, 20 basil leaves, 2 tsp honey, a squeeze of lemon juice and 2 shots gin in a blender and blitz to combine. Pour into ice lolly moulds and freeze overnight.

      5. Tequila Sunset

      Mix together 100ml mango juice, 40ml fresh orange juice, 2 tsp honey and 2 shots tequila. Pour into ice lolly moulds and freeze overnight.

      READ MORE: 10 Low-Kilojoule Cocktails Worth Sipping On This Summer

      Zoku In-Line Slow Pop Mould

      “Great popsicle mould. Fits nicely in the freezer and the individual moulds that slot into the holder, make use and cleaning a breeze.” – Ruth, user review

      NutriBullet Blender Combo

      This handy blender needs no introduction. Not only will it be amazing for making ice lollies, but you can also make smoothies, nut butters and soups.

      KitchenCraft Cocktail Jigger

      There are spirit jiggers and then there’s this polished copper finished spirit jigger. It measures 25ml and 50ml, and is perfect for mixing cocktails/mocktails at home. Plus, it’s stunning!

      These are the healthiest ice creams you can eat this summer. Plus: What you need to know if you’re drinking lemon water for weight loss. More

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      The 2 Hangover-Curing Recipes You’ll Need This Weekend

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      Searching for hangover cures? These two cocktails are guaranteed to make you feel a whole lot better and with minimal fuss.

      The Science Behind Why A Blood Mary Is One Of The Best Hangover Cures

      They contain tomato juice and research has shown that that tomatoes contain compounds that protect against liver injury. The victim of a big night out: usually your liver. So stock up on tomatoes.

      But that’s not the only benefit the main ingredient of the Bloody Mary provides. Tomatoes also contain Vitamin C and B6 which could reduce the symptoms of a hangover.

      The Bloody Mary calls for a touch of salt. That could help because salt helps replenish the electrolytes you lose through the frequent urination and fluid loss that comes with drinking.

      READ MORE: Make These 4 Low-Calorie Cocktails If You’re Watching Your Weight

      Hangover Cures To Try: The Virgin Bloody Mary

      A Bloody Mary has long been touted as one of the best hangover cures. This one with no alcohol and the addition of kimchi is guaranteed to become a fast favourite.

      Non-Alcoholic Virgin Kimchi Bloody Mary

      A Bloody Mary has long been touted as one of the best hangover cures. This one with no alcohol and the addition of kimchi is guaranteed to become a fast favourite.

      Prep Time 5 minutes mins

      Course DrinksCuisine Cocktails

      Servings 2 people

      2 Bottles Marty’s Spiced Tomato Juice/Virgin Bloody Mary, chilled2 Tbsp Juice (liquid) from your kimchi¼ tsp Soy sauce (add more if needed)¼ tsp Fish sauce (optional)½ tsp Wasabi pasteGarnishing (optional):Togarashi spice/chili salt for the rim of the glassLime wedgesKimchiFennel
      Sprinkle togarashi spice/chili salt onto a plate.Run a lime wedge around the rim of your serving glasses to dampen the rim and dip the rim of the glasses into the mixture.Choose either Spiced Tomato Juice or Virgin Bloody Mary if you prefer a little more spice.In a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, season the Marty’s with kimchi juice, soy, fish sauce, and wasabi. Be sure to mix thoroughly until all the wasabi is dissolved. Add soy sauce to taste.Next, fill both glasses with ice, pour over the cocktail mix and add garnishes.

      Barman’s tip: Not all kimchis are the same; their strength varies depending on the brand, and some can have quite a fishy taste. Add the soy sauce, then taste, and then add the fish sauce if necessary.

      Keyword cocktail

      READ MORE: This Braai Dessert Is So Simple Even Kids Can Make It

      Hangover Cures To Try: The Red Snapper

      The Red Snapper cocktail is similar to a Bloody Mary except it uses gin rather than vodka. Try it and thank us later.

      Red Snapper

      The Red Snapper cocktail is similar to a Bloody Mary except it uses gin rather than vodka. Try it and thank us later.

      Prep Time 39 minutes mins

      Course DrinksCuisine Cocktails

      Servings 2 people

      90 ml Gin (preferably a London Dry)2 Bottles Marty’s Spiced Tomato Juice, chilled5-10 ml Lemon juice (add to taste)A few drops of Tabasco Sauce/Sriracha sauce (add to taste)1½ tsp Horseradish cream (optional)Salt or olive brine (to taste)Garnishing (optional):Chilli salt for the rim of the glassLime wedge2 Sticks Celery2 Skewers Olives
      Pour chili salt onto a plate.Run the lime wedge around the rim of your glasses to dampen each and dip the rim of the glasses into your chili salt.In a mixing glass, combine Marty’s with gin, lemon juice, hot sauce an horseradish. Stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly mixed. Add salt to taste or, if opting for a skewer of olives or pickles for garnish, you can also add about 1 tsp of brine to each drink.Fill the glasses with ice, pour the mixture between two glasses, and add your desired garnishes.

      Keyword cocktail

      Make sure to stock up on your tomato juice (we love Marty’s) before this weekend. More