The cumulative effect of Antoni’s Just Peachy cocktail can be compared to the ineffable chemistry of a couple falling in love. When adding up all the elements, it’s plain to see that peaches and spiced rum were meant to be together.
It’s a timely tipple, since August is National Peach Month and Aug. 16 is National Rum Day. Such a double-hitter cocktail, garnished with luscious, juice-dripping-down-your-chin peaches, can also bring a little sunshine into September’s peak hurricane season.
Bartender Ryan Tauzin utilizes the quintessential summer spirit and sun-ripened peaches with lime, mint and a fizzy finish to create an island paradise right in your glass.
You’ll find him on Saturdays at Lafayette’s legendary Italian café. Antoni’s affable owners, Holly and Eli Cure, have been partnering with Eat Fit Acadiana to add low-calorie options and new gluten-free offerings. They’re also participating in EatLafayette through September (a three-course feast for $25).
Fresh mint simmered in simple syrup amply jazzes up the Just Peachy, a cooling concoction that can bring the heavenly flavors of summer all year long.
RECIPE
Just Peachy
In a bar shaker, add: 1¼ ounce Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, ½ ounce mint simple syrup, ½ ounce peach puree, squeeze of fresh lime. Strain over ice into a snifter glass, layer lime wheels, mint leaves and fresh peach slices inside the glass, then top with soda.
Just Minted
For mint simple syrup, combine 2 to 3 sprigs fresh mint, ½ cup water and ½ cup sugar. Simmer until a light golden color is achieved, approximately 10 minutes. Add 1 cup fresh diced peaches to ½ cup simple syrup and blend in a food processor for the peach puree.
Antoni’s Italian Café / 1118-A Coolidge Street. Oil Center Gardens. Lafayette. 337-232-8384. Antonisitaliancafe.com.
