When crafting mocktails, it’s important to use the freshest ingredients to off-set the lack of that liquor bite, and that is especially true for any citrus-based concoction. Forget the processed juices housed in plastic or cartons – even the ‘freshly-squeezed’ ones – and buy a few limes and lemons and oranges and do it right. In the case of this Calamansi Cooler, and in the absence of calamansi juice, a suitable substitute is the juice of an orange, a lemon, and a lime. Strain and pour over ice, then add a simple syrup – either plain or augmented by some Kaffir lime leaves during the boiling process.
The secret ingredient is orange blossom water – just a few scant drops as it’s powerful stuff – and then top with some calamansi seltzer. Garnish with whatever citrus twist you’d like. This is going to be the mainstay for our spring and summer days, and it feels good to have it in the line-up. A season is only as good as its signature drink.
