Herbs and Spices:Not Just For Food Anymore

The new Bodega No. 5 is a mini café and bar inside the Mercat a la Planxa in Chicago that serves up notable cocktails and mini bites.

You’ll love this: Everything between 6:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. is priced at $5 with a 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. feast on Friday and Saturday.

Try the signature Planxa: pineapple rum, cilantro, mint and lime. I’ve tried several versions and all of them have been outstanding.

For an infusion, get a glass jar with a lid, add your liquor and then your choice of fruit, herbs and/or spices.

The sky’s the limit and I must admit that I have been experimenting recently with the addition of more fresh herbs and spices in my drinks. Last week, I hauled home a bag full from the Farmers Market.

You will want to store your infusion in a cool, dark place and shake 3-5 times a day. On the average the ingredients should stay in the liquor for 5 days.

Do a taste test every few days – this is the real bonus- to see if the flavors are satisfactory.

Bon Appetit!