Sushi & Sake: The Aviasian

The Aviasian

If you are a MiddleBar fan you know that one of my favorite drinks is the Aviation and I like any variation on that classic mix of gin, maraschino, and citrus. While enjoying some hand made sushi here at MiddleBar, we thought it would be nice to have a cocktail as opposed to the usual hot sake thus the Aviasian was born.

I wanted to call this cocktail the Kamikaze because of it's flying theme, the Japanese ingredient, and it's potential to knock you out. Unfortunately, the name Kamikaze was already taken by a crappy 80s shot featuring vodka, triple sec, and lime. This is 2012 people, out with the old and in with the new. I give you, the Aviasian.

1 oz Dry Sake
1 oz Hendrick's Gin
1/2 oz Herbsaint
1/2 oz Maraschino Liqueur
1/2 oz Lime Juice
1 barspoon of House Cherry Juice 

Shake with ice and strain into a wine glass. Serve with a house cherry.

Akami Sashimi & Tuna Rolls

I would give you a recipe for sushi, but it's pretty self explanatory. Keep these few tips in mind:

Fish: Assure that all of your fish is Sushi or Sashimi Grade and purchase your fish at a well known distributor as opposed to your regular market. Keep your fish uber chilled until the moment you need it and avoid cross-contamination.

Rice: Use Japanese short grain rice, not long grain, brown, or even jasmine. Rinse your rice well, cook it according to the package directions and create a "sushi-zu" using rice wine vinegar, sugar and salt. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula to cover the rice in a glass or wooden bowl (no metal, it reacts with the vinegar).

Tools: A bamboo rolling mat. An extremely sharp knife. And keep your knives and hands wet to avoid sticking.

You can take it from there.

Sayonara Ya'll!