Blueberry Martini

I am sure that by now anyone who takes an interest in food and drink has heard the news that a fruity cocktail is not only fun to drink, but could also be considered as a health food. Researchers in the US and Thailand discovered that by adding ethanol (the alcohol found in rum, vodka, tequila and other spirits) to any colored fruit or vegetable rich in antioxidants (such as strawberries, blackberries and blueberries) increased their antioxidant capacity. They discovered this accidentally when trying to keep strawberries fresh during storage and treated them with alcohol. The antioxidants in these colored fruits and vegetables can cancel out the cell-damaging effects of compounds called free radicals. Berries contain compounds known as polyphenols and anthocyanins, and people who eat more of these fruits and vegetables have a documented lower risk of cancer, heart disease and some neurological diseases.

So next time you throw a party or invite friends round for drinks, why not serve them a stylish and sophisticated cocktail, the Blueberry Martini.

Blueberry Martini Ingredients (Makes 1)

8-10 blueberries
1/4 cup vodka
2 tablespoons creme de cassis
Ice cubes, for shaking

A cocktail shaker

1. Put the blueberries in the shaker and crush them with a pestle or the back of a spoon.
2. Fill the shaker with the ice and add the vodka and creme de cassis.
3. Shake until well blended and chilled. Use a fine sieve to strain the mixture into a cocktail glass and serve.