I’ve learned several valuable lessons today and it’s not even noon! Argonaut Liquor opens at 8:00 a.m. (except on Sundays when the store is closed); if you buy whiskey before 9 in the morning, not only will you feel like an alcoholic, but you won’t get carded — at least I didn’t; it’s best not to pour heavy cream directly into whiskey — that makes for a semi-sick sight; and a little creme de menthe can really put the awe in “awesome!”
When it comes to experimenting with coffee, there’s always going to be some trial and error. No need to worry, I’ve done the footwork for you. Below is the recipe that’s my favorite. I had to first get over contaminating two of my favorite beverages that I normally drink neat. Instead of feeling guilty for polluting both, I told myself I was joining the two in a beautiful union ... or something like that.
Because of the crème de menthe, this drink tastes like a grown-up version of my favorite Girl Scout Cookie — the Thin Mint. Anybody who is familiar with Thin Mints knows what color their box is. Green! And what color is on Ireland’s flag, which represents the native people of Ireland? Green!
And in case you are interested in a quick history lesson, the orange on the flag represents the British supporters of William of Orange who settled in Northern Ireland in the 17th century. The white center color represents peace between these two groups of people. And then there’s that invisible color that’s weaved throughout, which represents the continuous tension between the Roman Catholics and Protestants — but I digress.
Raise your glass to the Irish! Today is the first day of National Irish Coffee Week. But first, some words from the lovely Mr. Sinatra:
“Alcohol may be man's worst enemy, but the bible says love your enemy.”
-Frank Sinatra
Irish Coffee
INGREDIENTS:
4 ounces freshly brewed coffee
1 1/2 ounces Jameson Irish Whiskey
1 teaspoon creme de menthe
1 teaspoon raw cane sugar
dollop of freshly whipped cream (from organic heavy whipping cream)
INSTRUCTIONS
Pour sugar in glass
Add whiskey, stir to dissolve sugar
Whip cream until it’s fluffy and light
Add coffee and creme de menthe
Plop dollop of whipped cream on top
Raise your glass and cheers it up with this Irish toast:
May your glass be ever full.
May the roof over your head be always strong.
And may you be in heaven half an hour before the devil knows you're dead.
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