Blake’s Texas Ranch Water

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Sure, I had seen the canned versions of Texas Ranch Water. They were low-carb and tasted all right. But cousin Blake introduced me to the REAL version when we were all celebrating Aunt Deb and Uncle Darrell's 50th anniversary this past July. OK, we were in Peoria, IL, for the party but Cousin Blake is from Texas. I'm pretty sure he knows his Texas Ranch Water because he made me one and it was perfect.…

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Gin and Tonic

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  This is truly one of my favorite drinks EVER. I was lucky enough to travel to India several times during my career as a market researcher, and one of my favorite memories is drinking a gin and tonic (or two) at a fabulous outdoor hotel bar in Bengaluru around sundown. Sigh. I don’t do sugary tonic anymore, but I was happy to try a low-carb version of this classic cocktail. I offer my recipe…

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Rosé Cooler

Rose Cooler

I love the idea of this rosé cocktail for spring and summer. You could serve it with seafood, egg dishes, salads, or maybe some spicy Mexican, Thai, or Indian food. It's not too sweet and has that savory aroma of thyme, so it's very versatile. I picture sitting outside with a glass of this one, absorbing some much-needed sun and listening to Yacht Rock while the robins chirp. Santé, my friends!Food pairing: All Day I…

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Spiked Iced Coffee

Spiked Iced Coffee

Here’s a boozy alternative to your run-of-the-mill iced coffee. It’s gorgeous and refreshing…and the cream ups the fat ante for you Keto folks. This would be a great brunch drink in lieu of your standard Bloody Mary. If you prefer, you can swap out the spiced rum for the aged rum of your choice, or even a Gold. I won’t even complain if you want to use 151.  Food pairing: Ruled.Me’s Mini Keto Pancake Donuts…and do…

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Bushwacker

Bushwacker

  A few years back, I visited Nashville for a work conference. I was lucky enough to have my husband join me, and in the evenings, we would go out on the town for hot chicken and barbecue and Bushwackers. My friends, if you haven’t tried a Bushwacker it’s fundamentally an alcoholic Wendy’s Frosty (TM). What could possibly be wrong with that…except that the original is full of sugar?  So, I adapted a recipe I found…

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Brandy Hot Toddy

Brandy Hot Toddy

We've still been having cold weather here in the Pacific Northwest, and with cold and flu (and COVID) rampant, it seems like a good time for a hot toddy. A hot toddy made with brandy, that is. Feel free to substitute the liquor of your choice here. I used Cabernet Barrel Finished brandy from one of my local distillers, Copper Cat. Why not support a local business when I can? Food pairing: Keto Chile Relleno…

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