Being New Year’s Day we thought we’d need a little jump start, so we choose this simple drink of Benedictine and milk. The cognac based liqueur was originally created as pick me up for tired Benedictine Monks. It’s closely guarded recipe of 27 herbs and spices is also very soothing, even more so when combined with Milk. Served hot or cold, I think we could all use a little Milk & Honey today.

Milk & Honey

1 1/2 oz. ( ~50 ml) Benedictine
Milk

Cold: Pour Benedictine into a mug, add ice, and top up with cold milk. Garnish with a slice of orange and cinnamon
Hot: Top Benedictine off with hot milk.

photo courtesy of Benedictine

First, an article on mixing great drinks at home, not only will this help stretch your drinking budget, but using fresh mixers and premium spirits will help to ease that New Year’s Day Hangover. Don’t know how much liquor to buy for your party? We’ve assembled an easy to follow cocktail party check list just for you. As for drink recipes we’ve got tons, you all know that, we suggest picking 3 or 4 to make. Maybe a Martini? Batching for parties is good way to go.

What’s next, where to go what to do, for that we like Yelp. Real reviews from real people, so take them with a grain of salt. Once you are out remember to drink responsibly, it is bad form to be out of control drunk, and not classy either. We have a few tools to help you gauge your consumption, like this breath alcohol calculator and this blood alcohol chart. Print it our and take it with you. Use these as tools to as a reality check while drinking. If you plan to drink anything, just don’t drive.

What about the New Years Day?

Hangover Helpers come in all varieties, some you wouldn’t imagine. We haven’t tried them all, so be careful and remember the best hangover cure is to not over do it. To fill you belly while watching the Bowls, we’ve got some easy to make snacks.

Champagne Cocktails are great for the left over Champagne, we discuss in this recent post.

Remember to be safe out there, stay alert and have fun!

Despite all the hangover cures in a box, can or bottle, most people I know head for the tried-and-true greasy diner meal for relief.

Apparently, there are scientific reasons for this, according to the Newcastle University Centre for Life.

“Bread is high in carbohydrates and bacon is full of protein, which breaks down into amino acids. Your body needs these amino acids, so eating them will make you feel good.”…

“Bingeing on alcohol depletes neurotransmitters too, but bacon contains a high level of aminos which tops these up, giving you a clearer head.”

Some may say this is a yet another study to prove the obvious, but a little validation every once in a while doesn’t hurt.
Bacon Sandwich Really Does Cure a Hangover @ Telegraph (via Jezebel)

Photo credit: bschmove

Spanish Coffee

1 oz. Cognac or Brandy
1 oz. Kahlua
Fill with strong coffee
Whipped Cream on top (optional)

Serve in a large espresso glass or footed mug

We also found several variations on the theme including one that replaces the coffee for a shot of espresso, Yum. Another, Spanish Coffee Recipe calls for a fancy sugar /cinnamon rim and a nifty flaming 151 trick (note keep a fire extinguisher close by). Whatever way you like it, this drink is a keeper - especially in this cold!

past drinks …

What makes the egg so special? An egg is packed full of protein in the whites, while the yolk contains fats (the OK ones) and other good for you nutrients. Eggs even contain the amino acid, cysteine, that helps to battle the effects of the deadly hangover. No wonder Sunday Brunch is so popular!

Eggs are relatively easy to hard boil, still there are a few tricks to make them perfect every time. First, expect to loose a few to cracking. Adding a bit of vinegar to the water will help stop cracking. Second, add the eggs to the water while it is still cold. Dropping the eggs into boiling water is a good way to crack the eggs and burn yourself. Gently place the eggs at the bottom of the pan. Once boiling turn the heat down to a simmer. Cook medium eggs 9 minutes, large 10 minutes, extra large 11 minutes and jumbo 12 minutes. Be careful not to over cook them as the yolks will discolor. Finally, serve in with salt in an old fashioned egg tree, a Christmas tree looking apparatus made of wire that hold a dozen eggs a salt shaker and a bowl for shells. This, of course is optional.

more cocktail eats …

“My Grandfather gave me the combo and it works great. The caffeine will get rid of your head ache, and the sugar toast will work on your stomach! Give it a try!”

One can of Coca-Cola, not Pepsi. Must be cold and don’t pour over ice with u or pour in a glass. Must have all the carbonation and not be diet or caffeine free.

Drink with Cinnamon Sugar Toast. Typically 2-3 slices. Butter the toast then combine table sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle heavy amount onto the buttered toast while still warm.

more hangover helpers…

This comes from Lon, a reader who uses this regimen to heal the hurt.

“Here is a true hangover combo cure.

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to share this with your on line visitors, and with your fantastic website.”

Thanks again Lon.

Kathleen swears by this morning ritual after a great night out!

Orange juice along with a bottle of water…not only to rehydrate but to elevate your blood sugar levels that have dropped low due to the alcohol being metabolized.

Protein!! Usually the best is a good hamburger…chased by a little caffeine and some ibuprofen.

I’ll take the steak and eggs please.

Thanks Kathleen!

more Hangover Helpers…

photo: ICANHASCHEEZBURGER.COM - CALL THE OFISS

One of the best possible hangover cures for the morning after:

1 oz evaporated milk
1 oz Kahlua

Fill with Hot Coffee, preferably made with well water from my mountain estate!
Repeat if necessary.

Thanks Dr. James
more Hangover Helpers …

On to the Drink…