The 3 Quickest Ways to Thaw a Frozen Chicken

Posted on December 15, 2020 by englishivys

There are several ways to defrost a full, frozen chicken, but only a few will do it the fastest. The amount of time each method ultimately takes will depend on the size of the bird, as well as the cooking method you choose or have available to you. Continue reading to get started!

Downtown Indianapolis Takeout and Carry Out 317-822-5070

How to Quickly Defrost Frozen Chicken

Nothing is more frustrating than getting home after a long day of whatever it is you had to do, only to discover that you forget to defrost the chicken that you are supposed to cook for dinner. Fortunately, there are ways around this dilemma aside from ordering take-out, which is never a bad idea if you ask the rest of the family! But when thawing chicken, it is important to ensure to avoid unhealthy bacteria growth, which chicken is prone to doing if thawed improperly.

So, if you are in a time crunch, rely on these 3 methods of thawing a whole chicken. They are the fastest, and will render the same quality results.

❶ Microwave Thawing

If you have a microwave, especially one from this century, take a closer look at the buttons. You will likely see a defrost button. This button will work for your whole chicken, so long as you do the math right. Read your microwave’s owners’ manual for instructions on how to use the defrost setting. Be sure to stop the process every few minutes to check on the chicken and move it around. For average size whole chickens, you can expect this to take around 45 minutes.

❷ Refrigerator Thawing

Arguably the best option, thawing chicken in the refrigerator works every time. However, you need a day or two to let the chicken fully thaw. So be sure to plan ahead when using this method! Also, it is recommended to place the chicken on a place, even it if is wrapped in plastic. They are prone to leaking as they thaw!

❸ Cold Water Thawing

You should never thaw chicken in a bowl of hot water, but a bowl of COLD water is perfectly effective. Place your chicken in a sealable plastic bag, then place the bag of chicken into a large bowl filled with crisp, cold water. Be sure the chicken is entirely submerged. Allow the thawing process to take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours. It is important, however, to change the cold water every 30 to 45 minutes.

You Can Cook it Frozen of You are Really in a Pinch!

Cooking frozen chicken is usually recommended for slow cooking or braising. Cooking frozen chicken comes out the most successful if you have a pressure cooker or slow cooker. Just be sure the pot is large enough for your chicken, and read the manual before getting started.

⚠ Never thaw chicken in room temperature, or in a bowl of hot water. ⚠

Don’t Have Time to Thaw a Chicken Tonight?

Order Takeout at English Ivy’s Eatery and Pub in Downtown Indianapolis!

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our delicious dinner and drink specials we offer at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant! We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. From classic wings and beer, to prime rib, cocktails, stage entertainment, and more, we have exactly what you are looking for in both flavor and fun! With neighborhood prices and the kindliest service around, you will be fully-satisfied with every visit. We look forward to being friends!

How to Make a Spontaneous Cocktail Using Whatever is in Your Fridge

Posted on November 9, 2020 by englishivys

Whether you didn’t expect to have company over, or suddenly have the urge for a stiff drink, don’t shy away from being creative when it comes to curating a cocktail for the occasion. There are several ways to concoct or create a delicious alcoholic beverage using whatever is in your fridge. Even the most sparse refrigerators might likely have something you can use to satisfy your need to imbibe.

Continue below to learn some ways you can make an impromptu cocktail with what you have in your kitchen right now!

Drink Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Make the Best with What You Have on Hand

When it comes to creating a cocktail, your basic element will be your liquor of choice, or whatever alcohol you have on hand. From there, you can build upon your drink by combining your own personal creativity with the current options you have on hand. But don’t stop at your refrigerator either; the pantry and cabinets might also house ingredients that will improve or complete your concoction. Even your garden or landscape might provide a certain element for your desired cocktail.

Items to Look for in the Fridge:

▸ Soda
▸ Sparkling Water
▸ Juice
▸ Fruit Cups
▸ Jelly
▸ Olives
▸ Citrus Fruit
▸ Berries
▸ Fresh Herbs
▸ Jalapeños

Items to Look for in the Pantry or Cabinet:

▸ Sugar
▸ Agave
▸ Jams
▸ Honey
▸ Maple Syrup
▸ Cayenne
▸ Tajín
▸ Salt/Pepper

Some Ideas to Spark Your Ingenuity

🍯 Jam and Honey

Do you have a lemon and a jar of preserves? A tablespoon of jam can really enhance the flavor of a cocktail. Whiskey pairs well with fig jams, marmalades, and berry jams. All other common liquors can be paired well with any flavor jam, from grape and strawberry, to hot pepper jelly, pineapple compote, and much more. Add a slice of lemon to balance the flavor profile, and you’ve got yourself a great drink! If you like margaritas, choose a citrus-based jam and pair it with a lime. Sugar, honey, and agave work well as sweeteners or rimmed garnishes for any cocktail.

🌿 Herbs and Spices

Whether your herb and spice collection come from the fridge or the pantry, they can help you make a good cocktail with very little other ingredients. Upon your base liquor of choice, muddle or garnish your cocktail with herbs like mint, basil, rosemary, or ginger. White rum combined with mint, sugar, soda, and lime will give you a classic mojito. Vodka, rosemary, soda, and lemon is refreshing and satisfying take on the classic mojito. Pair bourbon and basil together, alone or with ginger beer for another great drink. Want something spicy? Muddle some jalapeños, add a Tajín rim or sprinkle in some cayenne.

Other Ideas:

► Use the juice of a fruit cup as a mixer.
► Muddle green olives and add olive juice to vodka or gin.
► Add a few drops of maple syrup into a bourbon.

✨ Try Out These Great Whiskey Cocktails
✨ Try These Low Calorie Cocktail Options
✨ Try These Iced Tea Mocktail and Cocktails

Where to Get Great Cocktails in Downtown Indianapolis

English Ivy’s Warmly Welcomes All Our Guests Back to Our Downtown Eatery

Posted on September 4, 2020 by englishivys

English Ivy’s is so happy to announce that, after quite some time, our doors are officially open again! We want to give a warm, generous thank you to all of your support you’ve shown us over the past two weeks we have been reopen.

Although still working on making some adjustments, we are continuing with all the English Ivy’s fun! Continue below to learn about our new restaurant hours and menus, as well as, all the great specials you can expect this season!

Bar Restaurant Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070 — Call 317-822-5070 to Hear Our Specials!

Come for a Visit or Order Carry Out!

🕚 Monday: Closed
🕚 Tuesday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm
🕚 Friday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 12:00 am
🕚 Sunday: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm

Let Us Introduce Our New Menu!

We are anxiously looking forward to introducing our brand new menu, full of creative renditions, original recipes, seasonal favorites, English Ivy classics, and fresh, farm-to-table inspirations! You will simply fall in love this Fall with our new English Ivy’s menu!

🍴 Weekly and Daily Specials 🍴

We are planning on weekly food and beverage specials, and continuing with our daily specials too! Tuesday through Friday, stay hungry as we have a lot to serve you! You can expect some of the same classics you’ve grown to love over the years, including our weekend brunch! But you can also expect some new surprises that will leaving you wanting seconds, and thirds!

Don’t Forget About Brunch!✨🍾

English Ivy’s is still going strong with our brunch menu, serving it EVERY SATURDAY and SUNDAY until 3PM! Be sure to order extra for those Monday morning cravings when we are closed! Walk-ins are always welcomed, but feel free to call ahead for reservations, anytime. Just be sure to remember your mask!

No time to stay in and dine with us? We also take carryout orders! As an added convenience, we have both lot and street parking available, so finding a spot is never an issue for our guests. With cheap prices and the friendliest service around, you will be fully- satisfied with every experience you have with us, whether you dine in or take out.

Get in Touch for More Info!

Contact us today at 317-822-5070 to learn more about our menus, specials, events, and more! We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. And as an added convenience, we have both lot and street parking available, so visiting us is never a hassle. With neighborhood prices and the kindliest service around, you will be fully- satisfied with every moment you spend at our Downtown Indiana bar and restaurant! We look forward to being friends!

A Few Simple Recipes for Homemade House Cleaners

Posted on March 26, 2020 by englishivys

Right now, everyone is looking for ways to improve health, safety, and hygiene, both at home and in the office. But not everyone prefers the harsh chemical cleaners you can buy at the store. Many homeowners live an eco-friendly lifestyle, and choose to make their own, homemade cleaning products instead. Not only are these recipes easy to make, they are much cheaper than buying OTC cleaning products. Yet, the best part about these homemade cleaners is that they are healthy for you, your family, and your furnishings. You can get all the ingredients delivered right to your house by your local grocer too!

Continue reading for a look at a few popular recipes for making your own household cleaner right from home!

Anti-Bacterial All-Purpose Cleaner

For those everyday cleaning duties, this all-purpose cleaner is great. Use on kitchen counters, floors, appliances, and porcelain to clean, disinfect, and eliminate odors.

❐ 1 Teaspoon Disinfecting Essential Oil (i.e. tea tree, lavender, lemongrass, etc.)
❐ 2 Teaspoons Sodium Borate (Borax)
❐ ½ Teaspoon Liquid Dish Soap
❐ 2 Cups Hot Water
Combine all ingredients in clean plastic spray bottle and shake well. Allow the solution to sit for 15 minutes before wiping clean.

Floor Cleaner

Although you really only require the first two ingredients, consider the rest for an added cleaning boost and odor control. Apply to tile, laminate, linoleum, and wood floors.

❐ 2 Cups Hot Water
❐ 2 Cups White Distilled Vinegar
❐ 1 Cup Lemon Juice
❐ 4 Tablespoons Liquid Dish Soap
Combine all ingredients in a large bucket and apply with a clean mop or sponge.

Tile and Grout Cleaner

When grout gets dark, you know it’s time to get to work. You will need a hard bristled brush and some elbow grease, but this recipe works wonders on stained tile and grout.

❐ 4 Cups Baking Soda
❐ 1 Cup Water
❐ 1 Cup White Distilled Vinegar
Combine water and baking soda to make a paste. Add water and vinegar to a plastic spray bottle. Apply the paste liberally to grout lines, and then spray with your water/vinegar mix. When fizzing stops, scrub clean and then rinse.

Furniture Polish

Every now and then, valuable furniture requires a good polish. To avoid toxic over-the-counter, store-bought cleaning solutions, just rely on this super simple recipe instead.

❐ 1 Cup Water
❐ ¼ Cup White Distilled Vinegar
❐ 2 Teaspoons Olive Oil
❐ ½ Teaspoon Scented Essential Oil
Combine all ingredients in a plastic spray bottle and apply in small amounts with a microfiber cloth.

Bathroom Scrubber

Sometimes there’s a need for some serious cleaning, and bathrooms are one room where a simple wipe down won’t cut it. Use this non-toxic bathroom scrubbing cleaner on tubs, sinks, shower doors, and tile floors.

❐ 1 Cup Baking Soda
❐ 1 Tablespoon Liquid Dish Soap
Combine both ingredients to form a thick paste. You may have to add more baking soda or soap to get there. Then simply apply and scrub away!

✨ After all that cleaning, you are probably VERY HUNGRY!

Downtown Indianapolis Take Out and Delivery at 20% OFF!

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to place a carryout order in Downtown Indianapolis. Although our interior dining is closed for the remainder of March, we are still open for takeout order and providing delivery within a 5 mile radius! Best of all, all takeout orders are currently 20% OFF! Please support our amazing staff members during these strange times and stay healthy out there!

Recommended Grocery Store Wine and Cheese Pairings

Posted on January 27, 2020 by englishivys

What’s not to love about wine and cheese? All over the world you will find various kinds of cheese and wines being produced, and with modern-day importing and exporting, we are lucky to have our pick of many right here in the United States. That’s not to say that local North American wines and cheeses are not worth the choosing. We are also benefited by local wineries and cheese farms that grace us with their passion for quality craftsmanship and value.

But you don’t have to be an enthusiast or connoisseur to create your own wine and cheese pairings at home. Your local grocery store right around the corner is all you need to build the perfect charcuterie tray for your next night in. There are several quick and easy wine and cheese combinations you can go with to ensure you are coupling the right flavors and aromas for the perfect pairing experience.

Continue below to review some recommendations for both grocery store wines and cheeses that perfectly complement each other, and available at Kroger, Trader Joe’s, or Fresh Market locations in Indianapolis!

Downtown Indianapolis Wine Specials 317-822-5070

Red Wines and Cheese Pairings

When choosing a red wine, be sure to store it at 60 degrees Fahrenheit to allow the flavor to fully develop. And remove cheese trays from the refrigerator 30 to 40 minutes before serving to allow the cheeses to soften. Below are some easy red pairings to consider.

Cabernet Sauvignon:

🍷 SIMI Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 – $20
🧀 Presidente Soft-Ripened Brie Cheese – $6

Merlot:

🍷 Beringer Merlot Founders’ Estate 2010 – $16
🧀 Tillamook Medium Sharp Cheddar Cheese – $5

Pinot Noir:

🍷 Francis Coppola Pinot Noir 2014 – $16
🧀 Red Apple Smoked Gruyere Cheese – $8

Chianti:

🍷 Castello Di Gabbiano Chianti 2014 – $11
🧀 Galbani Mozzarella Fresca Marinated – $6

White Wines and Cheese Pairings

When choosing a white wine, be sure to store and serve at 45 degrees Fahrenheit for that perfect flavorful finish. And remember to remove the cheeses from the refrigerator prior to guests arriving. This will ensure every bite is gentle and pleasing. Below are some easy white pairings to consider.

Chardonnay:

🍷 Cupcake Vineyards Chardonnay 2014 – $8
🧀 Dofino Creamy Havarti – $6

White Zinfandel:

🍷 Barefoot White Zinfandel 2014 – $13
🧀 Boar’s Head Muenster Cheese – $4

Riesling:

🍷 Schmitt Sohne Riesling – $14
🧀 Castello Blue Cheese – $9

Sauvignon Blanc:

🍷 Yellow Tail Sauvignon Blanc 2014 – $15
🧀 Montchevre Chevre Goat Cheese – &5

Pinot Gris:

🍷 Chateau Ste Michelle Pinot Gris – $10
🧀 Private Selection Van Gogh Gouda Cheese – $7

Where to Wine and Dine in Downtown Indy

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our fresh menus and specials we offer at our Downtown Indianapolis pub and eatery! Visit us on Mondays for ½ PRICE PREMIUM WINES, or Tuesdays for our $3 HOUSE WINES! We have a full bar stocked with all your favorites, including wine, premium liquors, beer, and more. To accompany your glass of wine, you can also order some delicious appetizers and entrees from our lunch and dinner menus! So, if you need a new place to wine and dine with your group, trust English Ivy’s bar and restaurant for phenomenal food, fun, and friendship!

Tips for Cooking a Delicious Beef Roast

Posted on January 15, 2020 by englishivys

When you want to take credit for preparing the perfect beef pot roast, you have to learn what it takes to achieve it first. In today’s world, there are so many fancy gadgets, cooking methods, and recipes that can sometimes overshadow a perfectly good traditional cut of beef. But when it comes to beef, you really don’t need all the frills to ensure your main course comes out juicy and delicious. Instead, all you need to do is rely on some good, old-fashioned tips handed down by all those talented Grannies. With the right knowledge under your belt, you are fully-equipped to prepare the tastiest and most memorable roast beef your whole family will love.

Continue reading to cover some of the most important tips for cooking a succulent beef pot roast.

Downtown Indianapolis Eatery 317-822-5070 — Grandma’s Beef Pot Roast Special 317-822-5070

Use a Good Butcher or Cut

The most important part of preparing a great beef roast is to start with the butcher. You want to concentrate on procuring your beef meat through a trusted, organic sheep farmer who will provide any custom cut for a fair price. Farm-to-table, locally-sourced foods have several benefits, one of which being some of the highest quality product around. Ask your provider to remove the bone for easier preparation. If you prefer to shop at your local grocery store, you have organic options, or you can simply opt for your favorite, trusted cut.

Let Your Roast Come to Room Temp

Another important tip is to let the meat rest before cooking so that it can reach room temperature. This supports more even cooking and balanced flavors. Once your meat is at room temperature, spend the first 10 to 20 minutes searing it on all sides using a cast iron skillet on high heat. This will properly seal in all the delicious juices and flavors of the meat while it cooks in the oven.

Get Your Cooking Time Right

When it comes time to put it in the oven, you want to roast it slowly at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The amount of time you roast your beef will depend on its weight. The rule of thumb to follow here is 13 to 13 minutes per pound for rare beef, 17 to 19 minutes for medium, and 22 to 25 for fully cooked. For instance, if your beef roast is three and half pounds, you will want to roast it for at least 45 minutes for rare, and upwards of 90 minutes for well-done.

Let Your Roast Rest

Once you remove your roast from the oven, allow it to rest for 15 minutes to retain all the juices inside. The temperature of your meat is important, and will range depending on your personal preference. Be sure to check your meat with a meat thermometer to ensure it has achieved the proper internal temperature, which is around 145°F for medium rare and 160°F for medium.

Get Delicious, Homemade Beef Pot Roast in Downtown Indianapolis

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to ask us about our Sunday dinner special, Grandma’s Beef Pot Roast Special! Our patrons continue to beg us for the recipe, but we promised Granny we’d keep it a family secret! Fortunately, all you have to do to enjoy this special dish is join us for dinner on Sunday nights! We are open from 10am-3pm, so come in and check out our menus full of delicious appetizers, cocktails, and more! With neighborhood prices and the nicest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!

The 3 Basic Cocktails and How to Make Them

Posted on December 9, 2019 by englishivys

If you are hosting a holiday party this month, you should impress your guests with some fancy bartending skills. But you don’t have to put in a lot of studying and practice. All you really need is some basic bartending knowledge. A good place to start is by learning what the three basic cocktails are and how to make them. Continue below to get started!

Classic Cocktails Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Classic Cocktails Leave a Lasting Impression

When it comes to the holiday season, everyone loves traditions. What better way to embrace holiday traditions than by serving some classic cocktails? Classic drinks, like martinis, daiquiris, and Old-Fashioned’s, are always a hit, as they are very universal. You can customize these basic cocktails in an endless array of flavors and themes, all of which will certainly leave a lasting impression on your friends and family. By knowing these basic cocktails, you can use your own personal tastes and creativity to build upon them and make them your own!

🍸 Martini

When it comes to constructing a great martini, all you need to do is know the basic recipe. From there, you can customize a martini into anything you want, from dirty martinis made with olive juice and lemon drop martinis that offer a citrus splash, to expresso martinis that give a good pick-me-up, and much more.

Recipe for Basic Martini:

2 Ounces Vodka or Gin
1.5 Ounces Dry Vermouth
2 Dashes Orange Bitters (optional)

Add all ingredients into a shaker. Add ice. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain into martini glass. Serve with a lemon peel or olive. You also have the option of stirring your martini, rather than giving it a good shake. But as Bond requests, “Shaken, not stirred.”

🍹 Daiquiri

Daiquiris are fun cocktails because they can be made frozen slushy or as a drink. As a refreshing drink that can be customized in thousands of ways, you can never go wrong serving up a tray of traditional daiquiris. You can also use their recipe as a base for shooters.

Basic Daiquiri Recipe:

2 Ounces White Rum
0.75 Ounces Simple Syrup
0.75 Ounces Lime Juice

Add all ingredients into a shaker and fill with ice. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds and then strain it into a chilled glass. Garnish your daquiri with a lemon twist. For frozen daquiris, add all ingredients into a blender with ice, and blend until you reach a slushy consistency.

🧉 Old-Fashioned

Old-fashioned cocktails are among the most revered classics, making it an important recipe to add to your bartending acumen. They are great to serve to guests because they appear fancy but in fact quite simple to make. Although bourbon is customary, you can use any base liquor.

Recipe for a Basic Old-Fashioned:

2 Ounces Bourbon (or any liquor)
1 Sugar Cube (or 1 tsp. maple syrup)
2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
1 Dash Water

Place a sugar cube inside your glass and saturate it with bitters. Then add a dash of water. Muddle the sugar cube until it is fully dissolved. Now fill the glass with ice and add the bourbon. Finish by garnishing it with an orange slice and a cocktail cherry on a toothpick.

Where to Get Classic Cocktails in Indianapolis This Holiday

English Ivy’s is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day from 11AM to 12 PM this year! Call 317-822-5070 to ask about our dinner and drink holiday specials we are offering this season. We offer a seasonal-inspired, multi-cuisine menu that is locally-sourced and curated by our chef. From classics like wings and burgers, to specialty entrees like prime rib and baked scallops, and everything in between, you will find exactly what your taste buds crave this holiday on our exclusive holiday menus. With neighborhood prices and the nicest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!

Easy Leftover Thanksgiving Day Turkey Ideas

Posted on November 29, 2019 by englishivys

The best part of Thanksgiving Day is that it keeps on giving and giving, even after the holiday has come and gone. We are talking about all the tasty leftovers, of course! But of all the typical leftover Thanksgiving dinner foods, turkey is by far the most universal, capable of being repurposed into a variety of delicious snacks, lunches, and more. To top it all off, turkey is healthy, making it a good choice for a meal, any time of day.

So rather than settling for the standard, cold turkey refrigerator grazing tradition this year, think about all the other goodies you can make with your leftover holiday bird. Continue reading for some easy recipes to get your own ideas flowing!

Thanksgiving Day Tips to Get You Started

First and foremost, if you know you’re not going to be able to consume all your leftover turkey within 5 to 7 days, the best tip to follow is to freeze it in a freezer-acceptable bag or container. After 5 to 7 days, bacteria can begin to grow within the proteins of the meat, and therefore begins to reduce the quality, taste, texture, and more. By freezing your leftover turkey, you can extend its life and ensure it’s healthy to eat. Cooked turkey can be frozen safely for 2 to 6 months.

Thawing Frozen Turkey

If frozen, turkey needs to be completely thawed before it can be seasoned or cooked. There are three primary methods of thawing meat, safely: refrigeration, cold water, and microwaving. The safest and most recommended method is to thaw your meat in the refrigerator. Simply keep the turkey in its packaging and place it on a plate to thaw overnight. If you need a faster option, the next best method is to thaw frozen turkey in cold water.

Just place the meat in an enclosed waterproof plastic bag and submerge it in cold water, changing the water every half hour until the meat is entirely thawed. To thaw frozen meat in the microwave, you will need to understand your appliances defrost settings since make and models vary in operation and performance. Refer to the owners’ manual for instructions on how to defrost frozen meat in your particular make and model microwave. If you choose this method, it is important that you immediately cook the meat once it is thawed.

Turkey Ideas You Can Try

Where to Get Tasty Eats in Downtown Indianapolis

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to ask about our dinner menus and holiday specials we are offering this season. We offer a seasonal-inspired, multi-cuisine menu that is locally-sourced and curated by our chef. From classics like wings and burgers, to specialty entrees like prime rib and baked scallops, and everything in between, you will find exactly what your taste buds crave this Thanksgiving on our exclusive holiday menus. With neighborhood prices and the nicest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!

Festive Thanksgiving Day Inspired Cocktails

Posted on November 15, 2019 by englishivys

If you are planning a holiday party for this year’s Thanksgiving Day, add some seasonal delight to your catering spread with these creative and tasty cocktail inspirations!

Indianapolis Thanksgiving Day Specials 317-822-5070

Thanksgiving Day Cravings

When you think of Thanksgiving, you might imagine the luxurious aromas of nutmeg and cinnamon, the creamy flavors of pumpkin and other seasonal squashes, and even the cooling sensations of a strong, fall breeze. So why not incorporate these charming seasonal elements into your Holiday cocktails? Here are some of the trending 2019 Thanksgiving Day cocktail recipes you might want to consider!

Pumpkin Latte Martini

1.5 oz. Pumpkin Pie Vodka
1 oz. RumChata
8 oz. Coffee
0.5 oz. Cream or Milk
1 tbsp. Sugar
1 tsp. Cinnamon
Optional: Crushed Graham Crackers

Fill shaker with ice. Add all ingredients. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain into chilled martini glass. Garnish with a dash of cinnamon and sugar. Optional: graham cracker rim

Cranberry Moscow Mule

8 oz. Ginger Beer
1 Lime, Squeezed
1 oz. Vodka
1 tbsp. Cranberry Cocktail Juice
1 oz. Raw Cranberries
Lime Slices

Fill copper mug with ice. Add vodka, lime juice, and cranberry cocktail juice. Stir. Top with ginger beer. Wipe rim of mug with lime wedge. Garnish with raw cranberries and lime wedge.

Bourbon Pecan Pie

1.5 oz. Pecan Praline Liqueur
1 oz. Bourbon
0.5 oz. Vodka
Roasted or Candied Pecans

Fill rocks glass with ice. Add all ingredients. Garnish with pecans.

Spiced Apple Cider Toddy

1.5 oz. Spiced Rum
3.0 oz. Apple Cider
1 Orange wheel
1 Cinnamon Stick

Warm your apple cider up. Fill glass coffee mug with rum. Top with warm apple cider. Garnish with orange peel and cinnamon stick.

Get a Seasonal Thanksgiving Day Cocktail at English Ivy’s!

English Ivy’s is open on Thanksgiving Day from 5PM and Midnight this year! Call 317-822-5070 to ask about our dinner and drink holiday specials we are offering this season. We offer a seasonal-inspired, multi-cuisine menu that is locally-sourced and curated by our chef. From classics like wings and burgers, to specialty entrees like prime rib and baked scallops, and everything in between, you will find exactly what your taste buds crave this Thanksgiving on our exclusive holiday menus. With neighborhood prices and the nicest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!

Top-Recommended Low Calorie Cocktail Options for Summer

Posted on August 20, 2019 by englishivys

If you enjoy a great cocktail at the end of a hard day, but prefer not to indulge in too much sugar or calories, there are still many great options to choose from at your local pub that won’t set your nutrition goals back. Continue below for a list of some of the top-recommended and most frequently ordered low calories cocktails that are the perfect refreshing finish to a long work day. You may be surprised to learn which drink comes in at the lowest calories!

Downtown Indianapolis Skinny Cocktails 317-822-5070

Cocktails Under 200 Calories

You do not have to jeopardize your summer fitness plan, nor ruin your nutrition goals, every time you want to relax and have some cocktails. Instead, just stick to some popular alcoholic refreshments that are made with simple ingredients, and do not have any added sugars. Here are some top-recommended cocktails that come in at under 200 calories per drink, in order from lowest to highest:

☀ Champagne

Nutrition: 90 Calories
↬ Add some fresh fruit or a splash of juice for added flavor.

☀ Vodka & Soda With Lime

Nutrition: 100 Calories
Ingredients: Vodka, Soda Water, and a Lime Wedge

☀ Rum & Diet Coke

Nutrition: 100 Calories
Ingredients: Rum, Diet Coke, Lime Wedge

☀ Sazerac

Nutrition: 135 Calories
Ingredients: Whiskey, Absinth, Bitters, Sugar, and Water

☀ Gin & Tonic With Lemon

Nutrition: 150 Calories
Ingredients: Gin, Tonic Water, and Lemon Wedge

☀ Old Fashioned

Nutrition: 155 Calories
Ingredients: Bourbon, Bitters, and Sugar

☀ Paloma

Nutrition: 165 Calories
Ingredients: Tequila, Grapefruit Juice, Soda Water, and a Lime Wedge
↬ For fewer calories, forgo a sugar-coated rim.

☀ Mojito

Nutrition: 170 Calories
Ingredients: White Rum, Simple Syrup, Mint Leaves, Lime Wedge

☀ Martini

Nutrition: 175 Calories
Ingredients: Vodka or Gin, Vermouth (Olives Optional)
↬ For less calories, order it “dry” and forgo the olives.

☀ Gimlet

Nutrition: 180 Calories
Ingredients: Any Liquor, Rose’s® Sweet Lime Juice, and Lime Wedge
↬ For less calories, swap Rose’s® for a dash of simple syrup and fresh-squeezed lime.

➡ When in doubt, stick to some general rules of thumb for concocting a lo-calorie, skinny drink:

☑ Avoid premixed drinks, mixes, syrups, and liqueurs.
☑ Swap soda for sparkling water or soda water.
☑ Swap red wine for white wine.
☑ Choose simple recipes with few ingredients.
☑ Use fresh fruit to enhance flavor.

Delish Skinny Cocktails in Downtown Indianapolis

Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our delicious summertime cocktail list and drink specials! We have a full bar stocked with all your favorites, including premium liquors, wine, beer, and more. So if you need a new “Gay-thering” place for your group, trust English Ivy’s bar and restaurant for phenomenal food, fun, and friendship!