Add some flavour to your weekend

ShortList’s Tom Bailey recently discovered that making interesting beverages at home could not be easier. With a bit of thought, passion and an open mind, he transformed himself into a master of the mix. A total beginner, but one all the same.

“It’s fair to say that the manufacture of tiny Hawaiian umbrellas is a dying art,” Tom says. “Judging by what goes on in the fanciest mixology bars, you’d be forgiven for thinking the barman was playing with his chemistry set– not making you a delicious drink. But it turns out that making a great mixed drink at home is easy – as I discovered when I tried my hand at a Smirnoff Jam Collins. With a little expert help, I pretty much nailed it on the first go. OK, nearly nailed it.

“The secret is simple: keep your flavours balanced. Not too sweet, not too sour. Sure, not everyone has fresh blueberries or organic lychees to hand – but you can always sweeten a fruity cocktail with a dollop of jam. And if you want a bit of razzle dazzle, just stick a tiny Hawaiian umbrella in it...”

Many of us don’t bother making tasty drinks, thinking it’s too complicated, or because of a lack of ingredients. But after spending the day with Smirnoff barman Frankie Campopiano, Tom is a convert to mixing great drinks.

The recipe below is for a Smirnoff Jam Collins, but the best bit about this drink is that you can use jam, marmalade or something else sweet if you prefer. The video above shows a delicious twist using marmalade: the Smirnoff Marmalade Collins.

THE INGREDIENTS

● 50ml Smirnoff

● 1tsp sugar

● 1tsp jam, in a flavour of your choice*

● 25ml lemon juice, and a lemon wedge to garnish

● Soda water

THE METHOD

Step 1 Fill a jar with a generous amount of ice, then add the Smirnoff, lemon juice, sugar and jam. Put on the lid and shake.

Step 2 Remove the lid and top with soda water and a bit more ice.

Step 3 Add a lemon wedge to garnish.

Step 4 Serve the drink in the jar.

*You can use whichever flavour of marmalade or jam you want, depending on your taste preference.

Drink Responsibly. Visit drinkaware.co.uk for the facts.