Happy National Absinthe Day

National Absinthe Day is an annual celebration that takes place on March 5th, dedicated to the infamous green spirit known for its mysterious allure and artistic associations. Absinthe, often referred to as the “Green Fairy,” has a rich history dating back to the late 18th century. While its origins are debated, the drink became particularly popular in France and gained notoriety for its alleged hallucinogenic effects.

The key ingredient in absinthe is wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), along with green anise, fennel, and other botanicals. These ingredients are distilled to create a high-proof, vibrant green liquor. Absinthe is traditionally served by dripping ice-cold water over a sugar cube placed on a special slotted spoon, diluting the spirit and creating a milky, opalescent appearance known as the louche.

The drink’s association with the bohemian lifestyle and the artistic community in the 19th and early 20th centuries added to its mystique. Famous artists and writers, including Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Oscar Wilde, were rumored to be enthusiasts of the green elixir, further fueling its allure.

However, absinthe faced a tumultuous period of prohibition in the early 20th century due to concerns about the safety of wormwood and the alleged dangers of the drink. In the late 20th century, a revival of interest in absinthe began, leading to its legalization in various countries, with regulations governing the thujone content (a compound found in wormwood).

National Absinthe Day provides enthusiasts and curious imbibers alike with an opportunity to explore the world of absinthe, appreciating its complex flavors and the unique ritual associated with its consumption. Many bars and distilleries around the world host events, tastings, and special promotions on this day, inviting people to indulge in the historical and artistic experience of absinthe.

Whether you’re a seasoned absinthe connoisseur or a novice looking to embark on a new gustatory adventure, National Absinthe Day offers a chance to raise a glass to the Green Fairy and celebrate the enduring mystique of this intriguing spirit. Remember to savor the experience responsibly, as the charm of absinthe lies not only in its potency but in the rich tapestry of history and culture it represents. Cheers to the spirit that continues to captivate and inspire generations of enthusiasts around the world!

Absinthe-infused Chocolate Truffle Brownies

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup quality absinthe
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a heatproof bowl, melt the butter and dark chocolate together using a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove the melted chocolate mixture from heat and stir in the granulated sugar until well combined.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the chocolate mixture, stirring until just combined.
7. Gently fold in the absinthe until evenly distributed throughout the batter. If desired, fold in chopped nuts for added texture.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
10. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, cut the brownies into squares and enjoy the rich, chocolatey goodness with a subtle hint of absinthe.

These absinthe-infused chocolate truffle brownies are a delightful twist on the classic brownie recipe, adding a touch of the Green Fairy’s magic to your baking repertoire. Remember to savor them responsibly, as the absinthe lends a unique and sophisticated flavor to this indulgent treat.

Absinthe-infused Pistachio Éclairs with White Chocolate Ganache

Ingredients:

For the Choux Pastry:

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 large eggs
• Pinch of salt

For the Absinthe Pistachio Filling:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup quality absinthe
• 1/2 cup finely ground pistachios

For the White Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup white chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, combine water, butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, add the flour all at once, stirring vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth ball.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, until the dough is smooth and glossy.
4. Transfer the choux pastry dough to a piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe 4-inch long éclair shapes onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the éclairs to cool completely.
6. For the absinthe pistachio filling, heat milk in a saucepan until steaming but not boiling. In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until it thickens.
7. Remove the custard from heat and stir in the absinthe and ground pistachios. Allow the filling to cool.
8. Cut the cooled éclairs in half lengthwise. Fill each éclair with the absinthe pistachio filling using a piping bag or spoon.
9. For the white chocolate ganache, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to boil. Pour it over the chopped white chocolate and let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth. Add the butter and stir until well combined.
10. Dip the top of each filled éclair into the white chocolate ganache. Allow the ganache to set before serving.

These gourmet absinthe-infused pistachio éclairs with white chocolate ganache offer a sophisticated twist on a classic pastry, combining the distinct flavor of absinthe with the nutty richness of pistachios and the creamy sweetness of white chocolate. Enjoy these indulgent treats as a delightful dessert for special occasions.

Absinthe Mule Cocktail:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz absinthe
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Ginger beer
• Ice cubes
• Lime wheel, for garnish
• Fresh mint sprig, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine absinthe, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake the mixture well to chill the ingredients.
3. Strain the mixture into a copper mule mug or a highball glass filled with ice.
4. Top off the cocktail with ginger beer, leaving some space at the top.
5. Gently stir to combine the ingredients.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and a fresh mint sprig for a burst of aroma.
7. Sip and savor the unique combination of absinthe’s herbal notes, zesty lime, and the effervescence of ginger beer.

This Absinthe Mule Cocktail offers a refreshing and herbaceous twist on the classic Moscow Mule. The absinthe adds a layer of complexity, creating a well-balanced and intriguing drink. Enjoy responsibly!