Easy Tips for Infusing Your Own Vodka

Posted on April 19, 2021 by englishivys

Infusing vodka is really not complicated. Anyone can do it, and the best part is, you can customize the flavors any way you like. To get started, all you need is 750 ml of vodka (commonly referred to as a “fifth”, this equals out to just over 3 cups), your choice of produce, a strainer, and some mason jars. You can use alternative containers is you like, just be sure they have a quality seal to properly preserve your liquor.

The main objective in making your own flavored vodkas is achieving a quality taste that works well in cocktails and on its own. Fortunately, this doesn’t take months of waiting. As it’s the start of the week, you can begin now and have a quality batch ready by this weekend!

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about making infused vodka, how to do it, and where to get the best vodka cocktail specials in Downtown Indianapolis today!

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Make Your Very Own Infused Vodka

Liquor Options

It is recommended to use 80 proof vodka. Anything higher than 80 proof will have a stronger burn and bite to it, which is not always preferable for cocktails. However, if you are making your own liqueur, 100 proof vodka is better since it will be balanced with a simple syrup or sugar. If you only have 100 proof vodka, just mix it with a little water to balance it out. You can use any vodka brand you like, just try to aim for a medium shelf product for the best results.

Flavor Options

You can use fruit, vegetables, herbs, and spices to infuse vodka. The possibilities are infinite, and are only limited by your imagination and your personal taste! Virtually all fruits work well, and the riper the better. Berries work very well, but people also love peaches, pears, and even figs. Popular vegetable choices include cucumber, carrot, and even zucchini. The selection of herbs and spices are endless, but common choices include rosemary, thyme, mint, cilantro, dill, chili powder, red pepper, and specialty infused oils.

Single-Fruit Batches are Great for Beginners

If you are just started out, it is a good approach to begin with a single-fruit infused vodka. Not only do fruits have more sugar which makes them infuse quicker, they are generally more predictable in taste, making them a fail-safe first time experiment. Single fruit vodkas also mix and blend better in cocktails because they are not too complex in flavor.

Work Your Way Up to Complex Vodka Infusions

If you are interested in making something more complex, start with a single-fruit batch, taste it, and then build on more flavors by adding more ingredients. You can be as creative as you like! Think about certain cultures or regions, or perhaps certain sensations you would like your vodka to produce. If you like a drink that tingles, consider adding some cayenne. If you want something that makes your lips purse, consider a more citric-flavor. If you like a drink that offer health incentives, perhaps Matcha or Kombucha is your thing!

Here’s a Guide to Making Infused Vodka:

The General Rule of Thumb = 2 Cups of Chopped Fruit to Every 3 Cups of Vodka

➀ Chop your fruit up into medium chunks.

➁ Transfer your fruit into clean, dry mason jars, or your container of choice.

➂ Pour your vodka over the fruit and tightly seal your container. Be sure the fruit is entirely covered with liquor or else it might spoil during the infusing process.

➃ Allow the vodka to sit for 3 to 7 days, depending on how much you want the flavor infused.

➄ Taste-test your concoction after a few days to monitor the progress of the flavor.

➅ Once your vodka has reached your preferred flavor, strain it into a clean, fresh container and seal tightly.

Now you have your own flavored vodka! Your vodka is safe to drink because the liquor prevents mold and bacteria growth during the fermentation process. After you strain it, it stays good for years so long as you seal it and store it properly.

Are you looking for a great vodka cocktail at an even better price? Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our delicious Moscow Mule Monday drink specials we offer at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant! Mondays also showcase Effen and Absolute drink specials!

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Downtown Indianapolis Bar Restaurant — 317-822-5070

5 Ways to Use Leftover Wine

Posted on April 9, 2021 by englishivys

You love to drink wine, so naturally, you hate to waste it. Fortunately, you don’t have to sadly dump last week’s bottle down the kitchen sink ever again. Did you know there is so much more you can do with your beloved glass of red, white, or bubbly? Continue reading to learn 5 uncommon uses for leftover wine, and where you can get the best deal on a glass in Downtown Indianapolis this very evening!

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So Many Things You Can Do With Wine!

Make Frozen Wine Cubes

If you are a lover of cooking, then you surely use wine for things like gravies, marinades, soups, sauces, and stews. The next time you have leftover wine, instead of tossing it out, just transfer it to an ice cube tray and freeze for next time! Now adding a little wine to your meal won’t be such as hassle! Even better, it is suggested that if you marinate meat in wine for six hours prior to preparation, it can reduce cancer-causing compounds commonly found in red meat.

Resolve Oil and Grease Stains

Grease and oil stains are the worst. They never seem to relent no matter which method of cleansing you choose. But if you have some leftover wine, use it to easily lift the grease from the surface of floors and pavements. You can use it on concrete driveways and sidewalks, as well as garage floors! To use, just pour the wine generously over the stain and wait an hour before rinsing away. Of course, you might have to repeat the process a couple of times to remove the entire stain.

Clean All of Your Glass Surfaces

If you have some leftover white wine, you can use it as a glass cleaner. Just like vinegar and water, mixing a 3 to 4 tablespoons of white wine with a spray bottled filled with water can both neutralize bacteria and reduce streaking. Use it on all of your hanging and wall-mounted mirrors, your windows, and even your glass table tops!

Take a Spa-Inspired Bubble Bath

It is widely agreed that a glass or two of wine in itself is enough to feel pampered. But did you know you can also use leftover wine as an actual spa treatment for your skin? Wine contains tartaric acid and resveratrol, which are both plant compounds that work as antioxidants, plus leave your skin softer, brighter, and with a more balanced tone. So, the next time you have leftover wine, treat yourself to a much-deserved spa day!

Clean Up Red Wine Spills

This may sound crazy, but if you spill red wine on the carpet, you can use white wine to cancel it out! Well, there’s a little more required effort to it than just pouring white wine on a red wine stain. First, you have to catch the stain while it’s still fresh. Then, you have to pour the white wine directly over it and immediately begin blotting the stain away with a towel. Once the red hues are no longer discernable, finish it with your regular carpet cleaning routine using water and cleaner.

Are you craving a glass of wine at a great deal in Indianapolis? Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our Friday $3 house wines and delicious weekly menu specials! Come in tonight for our famous $22.00 Prime Rib Dinner too!

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Tonic Water Versus Soda Water

Posted on March 31, 2021 by englishivys

When you reach for your favorite carbonated water, whether to wash down your wings or make a refreshing cocktail, do you choose tonic or club soda? Perhaps you have always used one over the other, but have never really thought about why? Many people believe they are the same thing, while many others will vehemently argue that they are polar opposites.

To clear us the confusion once and for all, and maybe even impress your friends during the next round, continue below to learn the difference between tonic water and soda water.

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Soda Water and Seltzer

Seltzer water is simply plain soda water. Club soda, on the other hand, is soda water that contains a bit of sodium, usually salt, and sometimes a few other additives. But it does not contain any sugar. It is a flavorless carbonated water commonly used to make cocktails like vodka sodas and scotch and sodas. But soda water has taken a new turn in the last few years, and is a now a very popular beverage available in a wide range of flavors, some of which are still sugar-free, while others contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners. You can enjoy them alone or mixed into a delicious cocktail!

12 Ounce Serving of Soda Water:

⇢ Carbs = 0
⇢ Sugar = 0
⇢ Calories = 0

Tonic Water

Tonic water is a type of soda water, but it is not tasteless nor sugar-free. Tonic water has a distinct flavor, one that is typically described as bitter and dry. Its flavor is produced by ingredients like quinine and various natural botanicals, such as citrus peels and oils, elderflower, ginger, cinnamon, and lavender. This is why it is often paired with botanical liquors like gin and vodka. Furthermore, tonic water contains sugar; although just a smidge, it makes a big difference in taste. Tonic water can contain up to 30 grams of sugar in a 12 ounce serving.

12 Ounce Serving of Tonic Water:

⇢ Carbs = 30
⇢ Sugar = Up to 30 grams
⇢ Calories = 115

Facts About Quinine

Quinine is a primary ingredient in tonic water. It is a natural alkaloid unearthed from red or yellow cinchona bark, which is also referred to as Peruvian bark. Did you know quinine will glow under a black light? It’s true! Ancient peoples used it for medicinal purposes, which is how the Europeans began calling it tonic water. WARNING: Consuming too much quinine can cause toxicity. Talk to your doctor before taking supplements of any kind.

Are you craving an ice cold vodka soda or gin and tonic? Contact English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about the delicious Effen Vodka and Absolut Vodka drink specials we offer at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant! We also serve a wide range of liquors, wine, beer, and a full lunch and dinner menu!

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Popular Cocktails Under 200 Calories

Posted on March 18, 2021 by englishivys

Having a few cocktails at the end of a hard week should be a great feeling, not something that makes you feel guilty come Monday morning. For those of you who enjoy great cocktails, but could do without all the added calories and sugar, finding something satisfying can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are several delicious cocktail choices that eliminate the caloric overkill without sacrificing quality or taste.

Continue reading to review the some of the most popular low calorie cocktails you can order at any full-service bar or restaurant, or even make at home!

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If You’re Watching Your Waistline, Try These Top Low-Cal Cocktails:

► Champagne

SURPRISED?
90 Calories!

► Gimlet

Any Liquor, Rose’s Sweet Lime Juice, Lime Wedge
180 Calories
*Substitute Rose’s for a dash of simple syrup and fresh squeezed lime for less calories.

► Gin and Tonic w/Lemon

Gin, Tonic Water, Lemon Wedge
150 Calories

► Martini

Vodka or Gin, Vermouth (Olives Optional)
175 Calories
*Order it “dry” and forgo the olives for fewer calories.

► Mojito

White Rum, Simple Syrup, Mint Leaves, Lime Wedge
170 Calories

► Old Fashioned

Bourbon, Bitters, Sugar
155 Calories

► Paloma

Tequila of Choice, Grapefruit Juice, Soda Water, Lime Wedge
165 Calories
*Forgo the sugar rim for less calories.

► Rum and Diet

Rum, Diet Soda of Your Choice (commonly Diet Cola), Lime Wedge
100 Calories

► Sazerac

Whiskey, Absinthe, Bitters, Sugar, Water
135 Calories

► Vodka and Soda w/Lime

Vodka, Soda Water, Lime Wedge
100 Calories

Are you now craving your favorite low calorie cocktail from the list? Visit English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery and enjoy brunch, lunch, dinner, and delicious drinks! Be sure to check out our weekly specials, too!

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FAQS About Beer That Will Surprise You

Posted on February 25, 2021 by englishivys

Sure, there are millions of things to learn about beer. From growing your own hops for a custom home brew, to low-carb selections on the market today, the information surrounding this popular and indulgent beverage is vast. Aside, you might think you have a good grasp on your beer facts, but there are a few beer questions you haven’t thought to ask before! Continue reading to review some uncommon frequently asked questions about beer that might actually surprise you.

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Interesting Beer FAQS You Want to Know

Will Beer Curdle Milk?

Have you ever heard that you can curdle milk by pouring beer into it? Well, here’s what you need to know about that: it’s true. And it’s all due to the acidity in beer causing the milk proteins (known as caseins) to clump together. Just like adding lemon juice to milk, the acidic content in beer will make milk curdle.

Why Does Beer Have Head But Soda Doesn’t?

Whether you order a draft beer, pour a bottle into a glass, or draw from a keg, you want your beer to have a little head. But why does beer form head and other carbonated drinks, like soda, do not? Well, the answer has to do with the proteins in barley malt and hops, which are ingredients used to make beer. One protein of this source in particular is known as Lipid Transfer Protein 1 (LTP1), which repels water. It will form a bubble of C02 to act as its life preserver, taking it to the top of the glass. Beer foam formation is a process known as nucleation, which is basically a fancy word to describe a bunch of proteins reacting to each other.

Why Does Beer Go Bad?

No one likes skunky beer. We know that if we leave beer in the hot sun for a long time that it will get skunky. But what actually makes beer go bad? And does it have an expiration date? Well, hops are used to brew beer, and they contain bitter, light-sensitive compounds known as isohumulones. These compounds both breakdown and combine with the sulfur compounds in beer, causing the tell-tale skunky taste and smell of bad beer. As for an expiration date, beer does in fact expire. At room temperature, it has a 6 to 9 month shelf-life. In the fridge, you can keep beer for up to 2 years. However, once past its prime, it is not necessarily unsafe to drink, but rather, unpleasant.

Does Flat Beer Have Less Alcohol Content?

If you let your beer sit out too long, the carbonation will eventually dissipate, and you will be left with a flat, non-carbonized brew. But a flat beer does not mean a weak beer. The alcohol content remains the exact same no matter how long you let it sit flat. Additionally, beer continues to age after bottling, just like wine, but not in the good way. Once beer goes bad, it might taste and smell funny, and lack carbonation, but the alcohol content is the same.

Looking for a great place to grab a cold beer and a delicious bite to eat? 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!

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Try These Classic Mardi Gras Cocktails to Celebrate Fat Tuesday 2021

Posted on February 16, 2021 by englishivys

It is Mardi Gras once again, folks! Sure, you might not be live at the show in New Orleans, but here in Indiana, you can still celebrate Fat Tuesday like a Bourbon Street regular. Just try these classic, made-for-celebrating Mardi Gras cocktails for some Southern Louisiana Cajun ambience!

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The Number 1 Mardi Gras Cocktail is…

The Hurricane of Course!

Hurricanes have that alluring, tropical, orangey pink hues that call to you. Made from a combination of light rum, dark rum, passion fruit juice, OJ, and grenadine, you can always count on this cocktail to get the party started, and give you all the tropical vibes! And since they are garnished with an orange slice and maraschino cherries, you can enjoy a light snack and a fun drink, all in one! Traditionally, they are served over ice, but you can also order them frozen!

The Timeless Sazerac

The Sazerac is another Mardi Gras staple, but also popular in New Orleans all other seasons of the year. Formally made with Absinthe, bartenders now construct this popular drink with the safer version, Herbsaint liqueur. Along with Herbsaint liqueur, the Sazerac is made with rye whiskey, bitters, and simple syrup, and sleekly garnished with a lemon peel. The Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans has been serving this classic cocktail since 1949.

Grasshopper

If you like creamy minty drinks, a Grasshopper is never a bad choice on Fat Tuesday, Grasshoppers have been a New Orleans Mardi Gras classic for generations, and they are easy to make. A no-fuss combination of crème de menthe, white creme de cacao, and heavy cream creates a creamy, dreamy, minty cocktail that goes down so smooth, you’ll order another before you even finish your first! Plus, the green color is perfectly festive and honorary of Mardi Gras!

Where to Get Fabulous Dinner and Drinks Specials for Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday in Indianapolis

English Ivy’s Downtown Pub and Eatery is offering all the deals on Fat Tuesday Mardi Gras specials in Indianapolis. Come in to enjoy our delicious Jambalaya or Cajun alfredo pasta dinner specials, and pair it with $2 wells, $2 wines, $2 domestics, and $5 HURRICANES! Hurry in fast, as our kitchen closes at 10PM tonight! Walk-ins are welcome, but you may also contact us at (317) 822-5070 for reservations, carryout orders, call-ahead seating, and more. Since we have both lot and street parking available, finding a spot is never an issue!

Mardi Gras Specials Downtown Indianapolis 317-822-5070

How to Choose Between Flour Tortillas and Corn Tortillas

Posted on January 28, 2021 by englishivys

When it comes to preparing Latin American cuisine, you can never get the full experience without having some form of tortillas around. But the age old question is, “which to choose?”, as many people have a hard time discerning between the two, let alone knowing which to choose for their particular dish. Well, if you have always wondered, “flour or corn tortillas?”, then you are in the right place.

Scroll down to learn the difference between flour tortillas and corn tortillas, including the dishes they compliment best, and where you can count on the freshest, tastiest Mexican food in Downtown Indianapolis!

Fish Tacos Special in Indianapolis — Call for Taco Thursday at English Ivy’s in Indianapolis 317-822-5070

Flour Tortillas or Corn Tortillas? That is the Question.

Ultimately, no matter which tortillas you choose, or happen to have on hand, they will be fantastic with whatever Latin American dish you are serving or ordering. They are both delicious and have their own unique qualities that will elevate any meal, Mexican-inspired or not. So, if ever confronted with the option, or left with no optional at all, flour and corn are both wonderful, as they are highly-versatile. But for your own personal understanding, and pleasure, below are some facts about flour and corn tortillas that might help you lean one way or another the next time you are enjoying some tacos or quesadillas!

Flour Tortillas

Flour tortillas are made primarily with, you guessed it, flour, just as the name reveals. They are soft and chewy in texture, mild in flavor, and range in a variety of sizes. More popular in the Northern parts of the Americas, flour tortillas make for excellent burritos, chimichangas, and quesadillas since they are much larger than corn tortillas, and stronger too. However, here in the states, they are commonly used for tacos, fajitas, enchiladas, sandwich and salad wraps, and even baked as bowls for taco salad.

Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas are made from ground corn, and have a lot of salty and savory flavor. They are smaller than flour tortillas, but perfect for dishes like tacos, taquitos, enchiladas, street tacos, and tostadas. They are also the perfect tortillas to cut apart and make nachos with! Corn tortillas are prevalent here in the states, but they are the dominant tortilla in the Southern parts of the United States, and all throughout Mexico, Central America, and South America. If you want authentic Latin American food, go for the corn tortillas, as this is what you will find when you travel down south. An added bonus, those with dietary restrictions, such as wheat or gluten, corn tortillas are a great mostly-gluten-free alternative to flour-based ones.

Craving Something in a Tortilla Now?

Place an Order at English Ivy’s Pub and Eatery for TACO THURSDAY!

Contact us at 317-822-5070 to hear more about our current special of the week, TACO THURSDAY! Come in or place an order for steak, chicken, pork, and fish tacos tonight! We have other tortilla options on our Menus too, like our Southwest Quesadilla, Steak Wrap, and Chicken Wrap! Our Thursday specials are also showcasing drinks, including $5 Margaritas, $3.50 Corona bottles, $3 Fireball, $5.35 Pitchers, $10 Beer Buckets, and more! We gladly accept wall-ins, reservations, and even carryout orders. We look forward to serving you!

3 Reasons Why Moscow Mules are Served in Copper Mugs

Posted on January 11, 2021 by englishivys

Moscow used to just be a city in the Soviet Union. But now, when you hear the name Moscow, you likely imagine that frothy, delicious cold drink that is famously served in a glistening copper mug. What’s actually referred to as Moscow Mules, this always-trending, always-tasting alcoholic cocktail is highly versatile, and compliments virtually any occasion or dish. Traditionally made with ginger root beer and vodka, Moscow Mules have been reinvented in all sorts of flavors and enhancements. But there is one thing that remains common among them all: the copper mug.

Do you know why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs and glasses? Continue reading to learn 3 reasons why, and share them with your pals over a few this evening!

Indianapolis Moscow Mules Drink Specials 317-822-5070 a copper mug on a black table.

The Deal With Moscow Mules and Copper Mugs

Copper is an interesting metal because it retains some pretty incredible qualities. These qualities, coupled with a bit of nostalgic history, have to do with the reasons why Moscow Mules are traditionally served in copper mugs or glassware. The first reason is thanks to the history of preparing and serving Moscow Mules.

❶ History

Although stories are a bit conflicting due to its cloudy origins, it is suggested that the ginger beer and vodka cocktail was partly created by a man named Jack Morgan, who was the owner of an LA British pub called the Cock ‘n’ Bull. As with most cocktail origin stories, it is strongly suggested that the bartender there also helped create the famous concoction. Well, Jack’s lady owned a copper-making company, who is indicated to be a Russian immigrant by the name of Sophie Berezinski. You can connect the dots from there!

It is also suggested that Jack Morgan and John Martin, a man who had just bought Smirnoff at the time, invented the marketing campaign of the copper mug drink together because Jack was having trouble pushing ginger beer off the shelves, while John couldn’t get his vodka sales up. They went around the city taking pictures of celebrities holding Moscow Mules in the shiny copper mugs, thus increasing the drink’s popularity overtime.

❷ Temperature Control

As mentioned, the viable properties of copper metal play a major part in why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs. You see, copper is the ultimate thermal conductor, which is why it is used so predominately in electronics manufacturing and design. Anything electronic will contain copper because the copper regulates temperature. You don’t want your laptop getting too hot! Well, this thermal conductivity also keeps things cold, like Moscow Mules! The copper mugs actually react with the cold liquids inside, making the drink colder, and keeping the ice solid, for longer. A real Moscow Mule copper mug will be pure copper. There are other kinds of mugs that are just copper-plated, or lined with copper. They are actually made with steel, nickel, and tin.

❸ Flavor

It is suggested that Moscow Mules taste better when they are served in a true, copper mug! Perhaps it is because the copper decreases the temperature just so, rendering chill-worthy sips from start to finish, or maybe it’s due to some other chemistry. You see, copper also creates that extra fizz and carbonation that makes are Moscow Mules so crisp and aromatic. The copper is also said to enhance the core flavor of the ginger, citrus, and mint inside. Try it for yourself! Serve a Moscow Mule in a regular pint glass, then serve one in a copper mug, and then take the taste test!

Where to Get Fabulous Moscow Mules and Drink Specials in Indianapolis

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to hear about our delicious weekly menu and drink specials we offer at our Indianapolis bar and restaurant! Visit us on Mondays for $6 Mule Mondays! Our famous Moscow Mules are served over ice, in a copper mug, with your choice of liquor, ginger beer, and lime wedge! We also have a fully stocked bar with all your favorites, including wine, premium liquors, beer, and more. To complement your Moscow Mules, order some delicious appetizers and entrees from our lunch and dinner menus! So, if you need to get your Moscow Mule fix on with your crew, trust English Ivy’s bar and restaurant for phenomenal food, fun, and friendship!

Indianapolis Moscow Mule Specials 317-822-5070

New Year’s Eve Cocktails to Match Your New Year’s Resolution

Posted on December 28, 2020 by englishivys

Other than the fantastic parties and festive indulgences we get to partake in at the end of each year, the best part about celebrating on New Year’s Eve is deciding what you want to make your New Year’s resolution. After all, a new year is like a fresh, clean slate for a brand new you! So, what will your New Year’s resolution be for 2021? Do you wish to be more audacious? Do you want to embrace some healthier habits? Whatever your New Year resolve might be, have some fun by matching it to your New Year’s Cocktail! That’s right; there are some great, classic cocktails that you can order this New Year’s Eve while celebrating the commencing of the New Year!

Scroll down to see which New Year’s Eve cocktails match your New Year’s Resolution for 2021!

New Year's Eve Specials Downtown Indianapolis — Professional bartender pouring margarita cocktail with strainer and cocktail tools

What’s in a New Year’s Resolution?

Before you can decide what’s in your New Year’s Eve cocktail, you must first understand what is in your New Year’s resolution. Traditionally, a New Year’s resolution is a personal determination made on the very brink of the coming year, either to better oneself, continue in good practices, or change an objectionable behavior or habit. Do you have any bad habits or undesirable behaviors you would like to modify? Do you have health or nutrition goals that are important to you this coming year? Or perhaps you want to explore the bounds of your personality and become a more open version of yourself? Whatever your resolve might be, there is a guaranteed good cocktail to go with it!

Match Your New Year’s Drink With Your New Year’s Resolve!

Once you resolve for the New Year, you can match a classic, well-known, and delicious cocktail to compliment your night of New Year’s Eve celebrating! Here are some fun, traditional New Year’s drinks that are pleasing, delicious, and will perfectly compliment your New Year’s resolution:

Wish to Meet New Health and Nutrition Goals?
🍈 Your Drink is a Vodka Soda With Lime

If you are looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve in traditional style, but wish to support your New Year’s resolution to be healthier or fitter, you will want to aim for some good, old-fashioned vodka cocktails. Vodka is a low-calorie liquor with a mild taste, making it perfect for creating a wide array of drinks. The healthiest vodka cocktails are those without sugary mixes, heavy syrups, or preservatives found in canned beverages. The best low calorie, low carb cocktail to drink this New Year’s Eve is the classic vodka and soda with a fresh lime wedge. With only 100 Calories, you can feel good about your cocktail choices on New Year’s Day!

Want to Be More Daring and Adventurous?
🍹 Your Drink is a Bloody Mary

To be more adventurous and daring is a great aspiration. So, if your 2021 New Year’s resolution is to add a little more spice to your life, then your New Year’s Eve cocktail is a Bloody Mary! Bloody Mary’s are fantastic cocktails that have a rich history and come in a wide scope of variations. Made with spicy ingredients like hot sauce, pepper, and chili’s, you can order a Bloody Mary in endless combinations of garnishes, from the usual suspects like celery, lemon wedges, and pickles, to the more progressive culinary alternatives like candied bacon, banana peppers, cornbread, shrimp, and even an entire bottle of beer! Best of all, they are suitable for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, which is great news for anyone who needs a little more hair of the dog that bit you on New Year’s Day!

Determined to Simplify Your Life a Bit?
🍸 Your Drink is a Daiquiri

If you want to keep things simple in 2021, or perhaps simplify your life a bit more, then the classic daiquiri is your New Year’s Eve cocktail! Made with just a few, simple ingredients (the key word here is simple), a daiquiri delivers layered flavor in a melding fashion that pleases even the testiest of taste buds. Simply put, a daiquiri keeps it real; real simple and real clean. They are made with white rum, simple syrup, and fresh lime juice, so any bartender can make you one on the fly! You can add some fruit puree to make a strawberry or pineapple daiquiri, and even order them frozen for an exotic cocktail experience!

Wish to Finally Solve Your Digestion Issues?
🥃 Your Drink is Tequila

If you suffer from chronic digestion issues like heartburn, indigestion, and similar digestive conditions, it is no surprise that your New Year’s resolution to finally get some professional help! When you go visit your doctor, he may not be pleased to know that you drank the night away on New Year’s Eve, but he can at least appreciate that you chose tequila as your cocktail of choice! That is because tequila is a source of natural probiotics, similar to those found in yogurt and fermented cabbage. Probiotics help restore good bacteria in the gut. Also, tequila is good for digestion. Drink it before a meal to stimulate your appetite this New Year’s Eve, and then drink it after to aid in your meal’s digestion!

Where to Get These Cocktails and More This New Year’s Eve

English Ivy’s – Your Downtown Indianapolis Neighborhood Eatery and Pub!

Call English Ivy’s at 317-822-5070 to ask about the New Year’s events and specials our downtown Indianapolis restaurant is offering this holiday. From classics like wings and burgers, to specialty entrees like prime rib and surf and turf, you will find exactly what your taste buds crave this New Year’s on our exclusive, custom-created menus! With neighborhood prices and the friendliest service around, you will enjoy every minute you spend at our Downtown Indianapolis bar and restaurant!

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!

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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?

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