A few weeks ago I was posed with a challenge from the good people over at Bing.  They challenged me to use Bing’s new Smart Search for Windows 8.1 and see if it would change the way I search.  That was it.  I could search for anything my little heart desires, just simply search it on Bing.  Well this little heart desired a Mint Moscow Mule.

The drink part was easy.  I’ve been making Mules for years, but what I didn’t have was the all important vessel the Mule is traditionally housed in…the copper mug.  So with visions of Mule’s dancing in my head (I’m just warning you I’m all about he holidays from here on out) I set my sights on Bing and simply typed in “Moscow Mule Mugs.”  I’m not going to lie, I didn’t expect it to be much different than the way I typically searched so I was pleasantly surprised when I was bombarded with image after image of mugs, recipes, and everything I could possibly need to quench my thirst.

Plus it doesn’t just pull from the web, it pulls from my computer, the cloud, and any apps that might be relevant.  And the best part, you don’t have to open a browser.  Just begin typing from you start screen.  So obviously based on the fabby photos above (taken by Ms. Jamie Hopper) I found my mugs, and a pitcher because everyone needs a copper pitcher!  So with my challenge accepted and crushed, and because it’s Friday, it’s time to sit in front of the Christmas tree and enjoy one of these lovely libations.  And because no one likes to cocktail alone I’m sharing my traditional Mint Moscow Mule recipe with you all.  Happy searching Loves!  truly, MKR

P.S.  To start searching like a champ simply download a free version of Windows 8.1 and get your Bing on!

…Mint Moscow Mule

2 ounces Vodka

4-6 ounces Ginger Beer

2-3 mint sprigs plus more for garnish

1 lime plus more for garnis

…Muddle mint sprigs in the bottom of your mug and the juice of 1 lime.  Add ice, vodka, ginger beer, stir and enjoy.

Photography by Jamie Hopper

This post was sponsored by Bing, but the opinions and love of a good Mint Moscow Mule are all my own.

We invited you to join us for a week-long Asian feast on Monday, and with a taste of our Spicy Vegan Lettuce Wraps on Tuesday and Ramen on Wednesday, we know you must be thirsty!  I think by now you’ll agree that homemade is always, always better than takeout when it comes to Asian, and this week’s recipes have proven they’re not as complicated as they may seem either.  So in order to celebrate a few new favorite recipes that make me want to say bye to takeout forever (well not forever, but at least for a week or so), I wanted to also mix up a festive and fizzy sip. 

When thinking about a good Asian cocktail that we’d really enjoy at the Rye household (and want more than one!), I immediately thought of something with lemongrass.  Lemongrass has always been associated with western cuisine, and it is incredibly aromatic.  It’s the perfect base for a flavored drink that’s crisp, refreshing, but won’t overpower my Asian dinner.  By adding the sweetness of the fresh mint I was able to balance out the tangy notes of fresh lemongrass and slightly bitter notes of the fresh lime.  It also serves as a great garnish (and swizzle stick!) in the tumbler glasses. And don’t be overwhelmed.  Fresh lemongrass is a bit difficult to find, but when you do (I found mine at Whole Foods) don’t be intimidated.  Simply use your vegetable peeler and run it down the lemongrass stick to create the shards of lemongrass you see here.  Easy breezy.

As you probably have noticed by now, I typically always gravitate towards gin cocktails (a gin & tonic was my first signature drink order) and anything with a little fizz (here and here).  But it’s all for good reason…they’re just so refreshing and clean.  I’m thrilled to add this Lemongrass Gin Fizz Cocktail with Mint to my entertaining arsenal, especially when those lettuce wrap and ramen cravings hit!  Truly, MKR

 
Click Here for the Recipe