Another jugged cocktail for you only this time there’s no alcohol.  I know, I know but not everyone who comes to a party will be drinking.  Some years ago now when I was heavily pregnant with our youngest I was invited to a party of a new-found friend and although going to a full-on late night party wasn’t a the top of my priorities I really liked her and wanted to get to know her better …… and I also just really wanted to see what her house looked like.  Don’t judge me.

As soon as we arrived the party was cocktails a go-go which was great for my husband who is party central when cocktails are involved but I soon found out I was the only one not drinking and therefore there was nothing for me to drink.  Out of sheer desperation our hosts presented me with a carton of Umbungo complete with straw. As the evening progressed my drinks choice was extended to day-glo coloured cordial in a pint glass with a handle. Great.

So here’s a mocktail for you to prepare for your guests so that everyone is happy and doesn’t have to ensure endless glasses of diet coke or drinks clearly intended for the kids’ lunchbox.

[HERE are some other Mocktails that you might like]

Lemon and Thyme Soda (makes one jug)

330ml Thyme Syrup

(350g white caster sugar, 700ml water, 4 sprigs thyme.  Simmer 10 minutes.  Cool.  Strain when cold)

6 lemons, juiced

2 shakes of orange bitters

Ice cubes

1 bottle Soda water

thyme to decorate

Place everything in the jug and top with the soda water.  Decorate with the thyme and serve.

I made this mocktail for my campfire and cocktail demo at the Sisterhood Camp.  The final recipes from that fabulous event will follow over the next few days – Lentil Salad and those Marinated Olives