Harissa-Pomegranate Mocktail Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 fl ounces brewed Lapsang Souchong black tea, cooled
• 1 1/2 ounces pomegranate juice
• 3/4 ounce lemon juice
• 3/4 ounce harissa simple syrup
• 1/2 ounce aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas)
• Dash of rose water
• Ice as needed
• Pink peppercorns, for garnish

Directions

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the brewed Lapsang Souchong black tea, pomegranate juice, lemon juice, harissa simple syrup, aquafaba, and rose water.
2. Cover the shaker and shake vigorously until pressure builds up and the mixture begins to emulsify, about 45 seconds.
3. Add ice to the shaker, cover again, and shake until the outside of the shaker becomes frosted, about 30 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass of your choice.
5. Garnish the cocktail with pink peppercorns for a beautiful touch of color and flavor.

From the Editor

If you have leftover aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas), you can store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It works wonderfully as a plant-based egg white substitute in recipes such as meringues, marshmallows, mousses, and even mayonnaise. Alternatively, you can use aquafaba powder - brands like Vr and Saheli are fantastic and available at Whole Foods or on Amazon.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	67
Total Fat	0g
Saturated Fat	0g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	21mg
Total Carbohydrate	17g
Dietary Fiber	0g
Total Sugars	16g
Protein	0g
Vitamin C	3mg
Calcium	16mg
Iron	0mg
Potassium	135mg

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your individual caloric needs. Please consult a registered dietitian or doctor if you have specific dietary restrictions.

History of the Harissa-Pomegranate Mocktail

The Harissa-Pomegranate Mocktail is a modern twist on traditional Middle Eastern flavors, blending the spicy heat of harissa with the tangy sweetness of pomegranate. Harissa itself is a North African chili paste that has become a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, often used to add bold, smoky heat to various dishes. The addition of pomegranate juice, a fruit with deep roots in ancient civilizations, enhances the drink with a refreshing sweetness. This mocktail offers a unique balance between heat and sweetness, creating a drink that is both invigorating and complex.

Regional Characteristics

The Harissa-Pomegranate Mocktail draws on flavors commonly found in the Maghreb region of North Africa and parts of the Levant. Harissa is frequently used in countries like Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco, where it is incorporated into soups, stews, and grilled meats. Pomegranate, on the other hand, is beloved throughout the Mediterranean and the Middle East, symbolizing abundance and fertility. By combining these two ingredients, this mocktail serves as a fusion of diverse regional culinary traditions, making it an exciting and novel beverage for both regional and international palates.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike most mocktails that rely solely on fruit juices or soda for flavor, the Harissa-Pomegranate Mocktail distinguishes itself by incorporating harissa paste, a spicy and aromatic component. This sets it apart from traditional sweet mocktails, like those made with only lemon or berries. The use of Lapsang souchong tea, known for its distinctive smoky flavor, also adds a unique depth not commonly found in other fruit-based beverages. This drink offers a delightful contrast between the heat of the harissa, the smoky tea, and the sweet, tart pomegranate, making it a standout in the world of non-alcoholic cocktails.

Where It's Typically Served

The Harissa-Pomegranate Mocktail is ideal for gatherings where guests are looking for something both refreshing and bold. Its often served at modern Mediterranean or Middle Eastern-themed dinner parties, especially when paired with mezze or grilled appetizers. The drinks exotic flavors make it a great choice for celebrations such as New Years Eve, Eid, or summer soires. Its vibrant color and complex taste profile also make it a fantastic option for serving at trendy bars or cafes that specialize in unique, craft non-alcoholic beverages.

Interesting Facts

• Pomegranate has been cultivated for over 4,000 years and is often considered the "jewel of winter" for its jewel-like seeds.
• Harissa, originally from Tunisia, has a rich history of use in both North African cuisine and as a popular condiment in Mediterranean diets.
• The use of aquafaba in the mocktail provides a frothy texture, mimicking egg whites in cocktails while being completely plant-based.
• Lapsang souchong tea, the base of this mocktail, is made by smoking the tea leaves over pinewood fires, giving it a distinctive smoky flavor that enhances the complexity of the drink.
• The combination of spicy, smoky, and sweet flavors in this mocktail is a contemporary fusion that appeals to those who enjoy adventurous and bold beverages.

FAQ about Harissa-Pomegranate Mocktail Recipe

Comments