Blood Orange Spritz Recipe

Brew American ginseng tea

Steep 1 teaspoon of dried American ginseng root (or one tea bag) in 4 fl oz of just-off-boiling water for 7–10 minutes to make a strong infusion. Strain and chill. Measure out 1 fl oz for the recipe and refrigerate the remainder for another drink.

Make tulsi infusion

Steep 1 teaspoon dried tulsi (holy basil) or 4–5 fresh tulsi leaves in 2 fl oz hot water for 5–7 minutes. Strain and cool. Use 1/2 fl oz in the drink.

Prepare turmeric syrup (optional)

To make turmeric syrup, combine 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup water and 1 teaspoon grated fresh turmeric in a small saucepan. Simmer 5 minutes, cool, then strain. Use 1/2 teaspoon of this syrup in the cocktail. Alternatively, use a 1/4 teaspoon turmeric paste or 1/2 teaspoon powdered turmeric stirred into the simple syrup called for below.

Chill a white wine or large stemmed glass. Add three large ice cubes to the glass.

Pour in the blood orange juice (2 fl oz) directly over the ice.

Add the American ginseng tea (1 fl oz) and the tulsi infusion (1/2 fl oz) to the glass.

Add the turmeric syrup or paste (1/2 tsp) and the simple syrup (1/2 tbs). If using powdered turmeric, mix into the simple syrup first so it dissolves.

Gently pour the chilled non-alcoholic prosecco (6 fl oz) down the side of the glass to preserve bubbles. Top with sparkling water (1 fl oz) if desired for extra lift.

Give the drink one slow, gentle stir (about 3 revolutions) to combine without flattening the bubbles.

Express the oils of the blood orange wheel over the drink by gently pinching the peel, then drop the wheel into the glass on the rim.

Garnish with a fresh tulsi sprig tucked into the ice. Finish with a light dusting of grated fresh turmeric or a small pinch (1/8 tsp) of ground turmeric on top for aroma and color.

Serve immediately while fizzy. Advise guests to stir lightly before sipping to evenly distribute the turmeric and botanicals.