• Infused VODKA DIY Flavouring Techniques

    Infused VODKA DIY Flavouring Techniques

    Creating infused vodka at home is a fun and easy way to experiment with flavours and personalize your drinks. The process involves steeping ingredients in vodka until it takes on their flavours.

    Here’s a guide to help you master DIY infused vodka:

    ### Equipment Needed:
    – A clean, airtight jar or bottle
    – A fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
    – A funnel (for transferring vodka into containers)

    ### Choosing Your Vodka:
    – Start with a neutral, unflavored vodka. Higher quality vodka generally yields a smoother infusion.
    – The proof of the vodka can affect infusion; 80-proof (40% alcohol by volume) is standard and works well.

    ### Selecting Your Flavoring Ingredients:
    Almost anything can be used to flavor vodka, but here are some popular options:
    – **Fruits:** Berries, citrus peels, pineapple, apple, pear
    – **Herbs and Spices:** Basil, mint, rosemary, cinnamon, vanilla bean
    – **Vegetables:** Cucumber, chili peppers
    – **Others:** Coffee beans, cocoa nibs, lavender

    ### Infusion Process:
    1. **Prepare Ingredients:** Wash fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Cut larger items into smaller pieces to increase the surface area for a stronger infusion. For spices, crushing them slightly can help release their flavors.

    2. **Combine Vodka and Ingredients:** Place your chosen ingredients into the jar or bottle, then pour vodka over them until completely submerged. The amount of flavoring ingredient you use will depend on the strength of flavour desired and the potency of the ingredients themselves.

    3. **Seal and Store:** Tightly seal the container. Store it in a cool, dark place. The length of time you should infuse the vodka depends on the ingredients:
    – **Fruits and Vegetables:** 3-7 days
    – **Herbs and Spices:** 1-2 weeks
    – **Harder Ingredients (like vanilla beans and cinnamon sticks):** Up to a month

    Taste your infusion every day or so. Once it reaches your desired flavor intensity, it’s time to finish the process.

    4. **Strain:** Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove all solid particles from the vodka. If necessary, strain multiple times to ensure clarity.

    5. **Bottle:** Transfer the strained vodka into a clean bottle. Use a funnel if needed. Seal the bottle and label it with the flavor and date.

    6. **Store:** Keep your infused vodka in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator. Most infusions keep well for several months.

    ### Tips for Successful Infusion:
    – **Balance Your Flavors:** Start with smaller amounts of flavoring ingredients. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away once it’s too strong.
    – **Keep It Clean:** Ensure all your equipment and ingredients are clean to avoid introducing any unwanted bacteria into your infusion.
    – **Experiment:** Don’t be afraid to try combining different flavors, such as strawberry-basil or cucumber-lime.

    ### Serving Suggestions:
    Infused vodkas can be enjoyed on their own, over ice, or as a base for cocktails. They also make great gifts when bottled attractively.

    Infusing vodka at home allows for endless creativity and customization. Have fun experimenting with different flavours and combinations to create your own signature blends!

  • VODKA Pasta Sauce Recipe

    Vodka pasta sauce, often known as “Penne alla”

    This vodka pasta recipe is a creamy, tomato-based sauce with a smooth texture and a slight kick from the vodka, which enhances the flavour of the tomatoes.

    Here’s a classic recipe for vodka pasta sauce:

    ### Ingredients:

    – 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
    – 2 tablespoons olive oil
    – 1 small onion, finely chopped
    – 2 cloves garlic, minced
    – 1/2 cup vodka
    – 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
    – Salt and pepper, to taste
    – 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
    – 3/4 cup heavy cream
    – 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
    – Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

    ### Instructions:

    1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

    2. **Sauté Onion and Garlic:** In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

    3. **Deglaze with Vodka:** Pour in the vodka and allow it to simmer for about 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol. Be careful as the vodka may flame if the pan is very hot. If it does, cover the pan until the flames die down.

    4. **Add Tomatoes:** Stir in the crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes to thicken slightly and allow the flavors to meld.

    5. **Finish with Cream and Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

    6. **Combine Pasta and Sauce:** Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing well to coat the pasta evenly.

    7. **Serve:** Serve the pasta garnished with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

    ### Tips:

    – **Vodka Substitution:** If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can omit the vodka. The sauce will still be delicious but won’t have the unique flavor that vodka brings to the dish.
    – **Spiciness:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to your preference for spiciness.
    – **Quality Ingredients:** For the best results, use high-quality tomatoes and a good brand of vodka; the flavors really do make a difference.

    Enjoy your delicious vodka pasta sauce with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal! And always CHACHA! 😀

  • VODKA POPSICLE SELTZER DRINK WITH ALKALINE ICE CUBES

    CHACHA VODKA POPSICLE SELTZER DRINK WITH ALKALINE ICE CUBES

    Give this drink a try at home, it’s refreshingly DELICIOUS!

    Here’s some suggestions on how to create a popsicle vodka and seltzer drink with alkaline ice cubes.

    It’s unique and tasty, and the alkaline ice cubes make it so much better!

    So…….

    1. Choose your favourite popsicle flavour. We recommend CHERRY
    2. Add 3 shots of CHACHA vodka
    3. Your Favourite Hard Seltzer
    4. Alkaline ice cubes

    VODKA POPSICLE SELTZER ALKALINE DRINK

     

    Here’s what you need to do:

    1. Start by preparing your alkaline ice cubes. You can make these by freezing water with a high pH level or by using store-bought alkaline water. This adds a unique twist to your drink. Put the ice in your glass.
    2. Break up into small pieces and place the popsicle in the glass.
    3. Pour CHACHA vodka over the Popsicle and ICE.
    4. Top off the glass with a hard seltzer. This will add a fizzy and refreshing element to your drink.
    5. Give the mixture a gentle stir to combine the flavours and allow the Popsicle to infuse into the drink.

    Enjoy your Popsicle vodka and seltzer drink with alkaline ice cubes, especially on a hot sunny day!

    Be sure to share with your friends too 😉

    We’ll be sharing more CHACHA vodka receipts with you and please comment on your experience and any suggestions on how you add your own twist to the drink!

    CHEERS!

  • Bloody Mary Drink: History and Recipe

    History of the Cocktail 

    The Bloody Mary is a classic cocktail with a history that’s a bit murky, but it’s generally believed to have been invented in the early 20th century. There are a few different origin stories, but one of the most widely accepted attributions is to a bartender named Fernand Petiot, who worked at the New York Bar in Paris (now known as Harry’s New York Bar) in the 1920s. According to Petiot, he created the drink by mixing vodka and tomato juice, and it quickly gained popularity among American expatriates.

    The name “Bloody Mary” is thought to have been inspired by a variety of sources, including Queen Mary I of England, who was known for her harsh persecution of Protestants and earned the nickname “Bloody Mary,” and a Chicago socialite named Mary Brown Warburton, who claimed to have popularized the drink in the United States during the 1920s.

    Over the years, the Bloody Mary has evolved, with countless variations and additions to the basic recipe. It has become a brunch staple and is celebrated for its bold and savoury flavours.

    Here’s a Classic Recipe for this Iconic Cocktail:

    Bloody Mary’s are known for their bold and complex flavours. They are usually savoury, with a tomato base, but the heat from hot sauce and the umami from Worcestershire sauce create a balanced and spicy taste.

    A glass with bloody maryLet’s Get to the Ingredients: 

    • 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
    • 3 oz (90 ml) tomato juice
    • 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lemon juice
    • 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 dash hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
    • Pinch of salt and pepper
    • Celery salt, for rimming the glass (optional)
    • Garnishes: celery stalk, lemon wedge, olives, pickles, and/or a strip of bacon

    This is How you Can Mix it Up: 

    • Rim a highball or pint glass with celery salt, if desired. To do this, wet the rim with a lemon wedge and then dip it into a plate of celery salt.
    • Fill the glass with ice cubes.
    • In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, tomato juice, fresh lemon 7juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. Add more hot sauce if you like it spicier.
    • Shake the mixture well until it’s thoroughly combined and chilled.
    • Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice.
    • Garnish the Bloody Mary with a celery stalk, lemon wedge, olives, pickles, and/or bacon strip.
    • Optionally, you can add extra seasonings like ground black pepper or additional hot sauce to taste.
    • Serve and enjoy your classic Bloody Mary!

    There are many variations of the Bloody Mary, including the Virgin Mary (without alcohol), the Caesar (a Canadian version made with Clamato juice), and creative spins with different spirits or unique ingredients.

    Our Conclusion 

    Remember that the beauty of the Bloody Mary is its adaptability. You can adjust the ingredients, garnishes, and seasonings to suit your personal taste. Some people even like to get creative with garnishes, adding pickled asparagus, shrimp, or other items for a unique twist. Feel free to experiment and make it your own signature drink.

  • The Fall 2023: Cozy Cocktails

    Fall is a season known for its coziness, and there are many things that contribute to creating a warm and comforting atmosphere during this time of year.  As the weather cools down, it’s the perfect time to pull out your favourite sweaters and cardigans, then after work meet with friends and have a good time with a couple cocktails. Fall is a wonderful season for enjoying flavourful and cozy cocktails. While vodka is a versatile spirit that can be used in a variety of cocktails.

    Here Are Some Fall-Themed Vodka Drinks You Might Enjoy:

    1. Apple Cider Moscow MuleApple Cider Moscow Mule cocktail. Two glasses with cocktail, apple, cinnamon sticks.

    • 2 oz of vodka
    • 4 oz apple cider
    • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
    • Ginger beer
    • Apple slices and cinnamon sticks for garnish
    • Ice

    Instructions: In a copper mug or glass filled with ice, combine the vodka, apple cider, and lime juice. Top it off with ginger beer, garnish with apple slices and a cinnamon stick, and give it a gentle stirb.

    Cranberry Vodka Martini cocktail. Red cocktail with ice and empty glass. Pink background and star. 2. Cranberry Vodka Martini             

    • 2 oz of vodka
    • 1 oz cranberry juice
    • 1/2 oz orange liqueur (e.g., Triple Sec or Cointreau)
    • Splash of fresh lime juice
    • Orange twist or cranberries for garnish

    Instructions: In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and lime juice. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with an orange twist or a few cranberries.

    3. Caramel Apple Martini Caramel Apple Martini drink. Martini glass. Slide of Apple in cocktail.

    • 2 oz of vodka
    • 1 oz apple liqueur or schnapps
    • 1 oz caramel syrup
    • Apple slice or caramel drizzle for garnish

    Instructions: Rim a martini glass with caramel syrup. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, apple liqueur, and caramel syrup. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with an apple slice or a drizzle of caramel.

    4. Hot Vodka Cranberry Hot Vodka Cranberry drink with dry orange on top.

    • 1.5 oz of vodka
    • 4 oz hot cranberry juice
    • Cinnamon stick and orange slice for garnish

    Instructions: Heat cranberry juice in a saucepan without boiling. Pour the hot cranberry juice into a mug or heat proof glass, add the vodka, and stir. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and an orange slice.

    These cozy elements of fall contribute to the season’s charm and make it a favorite time of year for many people who enjoy the simple pleasures of comfort and warmth. Enjoy these fall vodka drinks with, and feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Cheers!

  • The Best Recipe of a Vodka Soda Drink

    Mixing vodka with soda water is a straightforward way to enjoy a light and refreshing cocktail. This is commonly known as a “Vodka Soda” or “Vodka Water“.

    Here’s how you can make it:

    Glass with vodka soda Ingredients:

    • Vodka (1.5 ounces or 45 ml)
    • Soda water (club soda or sparkling water)
    • Ice cubes
    • Lemon or lime wedge (optional, for garnish)

    Instructions:

    1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
    2. Pour in the vodka (1.5 ounces or 45 ml).
    3. Top off the glass with soda water.
    4. Give it a gentle stir to mix the vodka and soda water.
    5. Optionally, garnish with a lemon or lime wedge.

    This cocktail is popular because it’s simple to make and has a clean, crisp taste. The soda water adds effervescence, while the vodka provides the alcohol content. You can adjust the ratio of vodka to soda water based on your preference for a stronger or milder drink. 

    How Vodka Soda Started?

    The vodka soda is a simple cocktail consisting of vodka and soda water, usually served over ice with a lime or lemon wedge. Its origins are a bit hard to pin down, but the drink likely gained popularity due to its simplicity and the clear, neutral taste of vodka. The low-calorie aspect of soda water also makes it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without consuming too many calories or sugar.

    The vodka soda is essentially a variation of the highball, a family of cocktails made by mixing a base spirit with a larger proportion of a non-alcoholic mixer. Highballs have been around since at least the late 19th century, and vodka sodas likely became more popular as vodka became more widely available and marketed as a “clean” mixable spirit.

    It’s a staple in bars and homes alike because it’s easy to make, requires few ingredients, and is relatively light in flavour, making it appealing to a wide range of people.

     Tell CHACHA when the glasses touch each other!!!

  • THE SEXY COSMOPOLITAN

    Want to Make a Cosmopolitan?

    Go to the store now and get the finest ingredients to have the ultimate flavour experience. Of course, be sure to drink it with CHACHA ?

    CHACHA MARTINI

    • 2 oz Vodka
    • 1 oz Cranberry Juice
    • 3/4 oz Lime Juice (freshly squeezed is best)
    • 1/2 oz Triple Sec
    • Ice
    • Lime twist or lemon twist, for garnish

    LET’S GET TO IT!

    Now GO….. Create YOUR SEXY Cosmopolitan:

    • Chill your martini glass in the freezer or by filling it with ice water and letting it sit while you prepare the cocktail.
    • In a cocktail shaker, add ice cubes. The colder the ingredients, the better the cocktail will be.
    • Pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, freshly squeezed lime juice, and triple sec.
    • Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This not only chills the cocktail but also helps to mix the flavours thoroughly.
    • Remove the ice from your martini glass.
    • Using a strainer, pour the shaken mixture into the chilled martini glass.
    • If you’d like, you can garnish your cosmopolitan with a twist of lime or lemon. To do this, hold a strip of the citrus peel over the glass and give it a little twist to release the oils. Then drop it into the glass.
    • Serve your cosmopolitan cocktail and enjoy!

    Never forget to use quality ingredients because it really makes a difference! Using fresh lime juice and good quality cranberry juice will greatly enhance the flavour of your cosmopolitan. Adjust the proportions of the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

    THE HISTORY OF THE COSMOPOLITAN

    The cosmopolitan cocktail, often simply referred to as a “cosmo”, is a classic cocktail with a history that dates back several decades. While there are different accounts of its origin, the most widely accepted story places its creation in the 1970s or 1980s.

    The exact creator of the cosmopolitan is debated, but it gained popularity in the 1990s due to its frequent appearance on the TV show “Sex and the City.” The cocktail’s rise to fame was largely attributed to the characters of the show regularly ordering and enjoying it.

    The classic cosmopolitan recipe typically includes vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and triple sec, all shaken together and served in a martini glass. It’s known for its pinkish hue and tart-sweet flavour profile. Over time, variations of the cosmopolitan have emerged, incorporating different types of spirits, fruit juices, and creative twists.

    The cosmopolitan’s association with elegance, modernity, and sophistication has made it a staple in bars and cocktail menus around the world. Its iconic status has solidified its place in cocktail history.

    TRENDS

    Cosmopolitan cocktails have remained popular over the years, and while the classic recipe is timeless, there have been some trends and variations that have emerged to give the cosmopolitan a modern twist. Here are a few cosmopolitan trends you might find interesting:

    1. Flavour Variations: Bartenders and mixologists have experimented with different fruit flavours to create variations of the classic cosmopolitan. You might find versions that use pomegranate, blood orange, or even tropical fruit juices to add unique flavours.
    2. Craft Ingredients: With the rise of craft cocktails, there’s a trend toward using high-quality, artisanal ingredients. This includes using small-batch vodka, freshly squeezed juices, and house-made syrups to elevate the cosmopolitan’s flavour profile.
    3. Herb and Spice Infusions: Some cosmopolitan variations incorporate herbs like basil or thyme, or spices like ginger or cardamom, to add complexity and depth to the cocktail.
    4. Low-Calorie and Health-Conscious Versions: As people become more health-conscious, there’s a trend toward creating cosmopolitan recipes with lower sugar content or using alternative sweeteners. Additionally, using fresh, organic ingredients is gaining traction.
    5. Sustainable Practices: Many bars and mixologists are focusing on sustainable practices, which can extend to cocktails. This might involve using locally sourced ingredients, reducing waste, and using eco-friendly spirits and mixers.
    6. Global Influences: The cosmopolitan has taken on international influences, with variations inspired by different cultures and ingredients from around the world.
    7. Presentation: Creative garnishes and glassware can make a cosmopolitan stand out. From edible flower garnishes to uniquely shaped glasses, presentation trends can add to the overall drinking experience.
    8. Spiked Seltzer and Ready-to-Drink Cosmopolitans: With the popularity of spiked seltzers and ready-to-drink cocktails, you might come across canned or bottled cosmopolitan beverages that offer convenience and portability.

    So there you have it and we hope it helps.

    ENJOY your COSMO with CHACHA!

Health Plus Fun
3 months ago
I don't usually drink Vodka but I could say CHACHA is one of a kind. Very smooth, distilled to perfection and it's elegance makes a complete package for a classy party hosting.
Jusentta Whiteley
3 months ago
This premium vodka is absolutely delightful. It's smooth and refreshing. I am very impressed and thrilled to have the opportunity to taste such refined vodka.
Orion Eveleigh
2 months ago
I'm a martini woman and CHACHA is the best I've tried such smooth sweet nectar of the gods!! This is most delicious clean and pure taste. Highly recommend.
Richey Garibay
2 months ago
Surprised that this would be a very good Vodka coming out of the Maple Leaf Country but a very great smooth tasting Vodka. Keep up the good work CHACHA!
Michael Powell
2 months ago
CHACHA is an excellent choice for a clean and purely filtered vodka that can be enjoyed straight up or mixed in a cocktail. Definitely one of the best out there!
Rachel B
2 months ago
This is one of my new favourite vodka’s ! Finest blend and Canadian brand, love to show my support to upcoming Canadian brands. Must try! You won’t be disappointed.

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