Delightful Punch

I wish I had a function that I needed to take this too. The recipe makes a lot of punch!

It has a lovely summery flavor though. The syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness to counter the tartness of the orange and lime juices.

Peppermint – I thought that was a strange addition. But it really is nice. Just a hint of mint.

I don’t really like gin, or at least I thought I didn’t like gin. This is the second gin drink recipe I have tried, and honestly, I have liked them both. Maybe it’s the martini I don’t like. . . .

I didn’t remember to make an ice ring, but ice cubes worked just fine I think!

This would be a great addition to your backyard summer barbecue!

MANDERIN PUNCH

2 Cups Superfine Sugar

1 ½ Cups Water

24 Whole Cloves

2 Cinnamon Sticks

6 Ounces Frozen Orange Juice, Thawed

¾ Cup Lime Juice

3 Drops Peppermint Extract

1 Cup Dry Gin

12 Ounces Club Soda

Ice Ring

Combine sugar, water, cloves, and cinnamon in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and cool. Pour syrup, orange juice, lime juice, peppermint extract, and gin over an ice ring placed in a punch bowl. Add club soda. Decorate with mint leaves.