cocktail

To me, life and its experiences have always been intrinsically tied to the food we create and consume together. Food has a way of wrapping around our hearts, stirring up magic, and unlocking memories. And have you noticed how everyone’s favorite recipe has a story? It’s always such a privilege to hear these stories from a dear friend or beloved family member while they’re cooking or serving the dish. So as a special holiday treat, I asked a few of the Behaviorists and one guest author to share their own holiday stories along with a favorite recipe.

This week our guest author is Susannah Brinkley from Feast + West. She loves The Nutcracker and was inspired by this famous ballet to create a bubbly, floral drink that’s perfect to ring in the new year! Please give Susannah a warm Model Behaviors welcome!

This time of year always has me missing home, and now with the birth of Darlington, I can’t help but think of the transition from summer to fall in New Mexico. It’s the most miraculous time of year, with miles of unharvested produce as far and wide as the mirroring skies.

I like to imagine the day when she’ll run through those giant corn mazes, which rise from the earth and consume the imaginations of curious children for hours. At night, when the desert sun hides behind the moon, sounds of laughter will fill the air. Our friends and family will gather around, telling stories and sipping spicy margaritas, while majestic mesquite trees sway in the nighttime breeze. The scent of rain will mingle with the aroma of freshly picked corn and chili being churned in large metal roasters—signifying the end of yet another glorious day along the Rio Grande with Border people who inhabit unofficial towns with dirt roads, adobe homes, and farm animals meandering from yard to yard.

Guest Post: Susannah’s Pomegranate Elderflower Sparkler

Mama’s Beso Caliente Margaritas