The Story of the Kāna-loa Breeze

Sweet Tomato Basil Mocktail was born out of an unexpected meeting of garden-fresh flavors and island memories. Imagine a luscious tomato garden at the height of summer, the air filled with the fragrance of basil growing nearby. This combination of ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil was a staple in traditional Italian kitchens, but what if it could transcend into a refreshing drink?

The Tomatoes:

The tomatoes grew with a natural deep sweetness and then some slight tartness, to which was given added importance from basil. As highly prized by the ancients for its medicinally restorative and sweet smell, it provided soothing and comfort-eliciting abilities to those who partook of it in a drink or sauce. So that’s an old, revitalised idea-the freshness of today combined with hydrating powers into this fresh and light, sweet-tooth combination classic of Italy.

A perfect fusion of sweet and savory, Sweet Tomato Basil Mocktail is that bridge between earthy garden produce and crisp, refreshing beverages. It’s perfect for sunny brunches or just a lazy afternoon, offering another kind of sweetness that surprises and delights the senses.

Recipe: Kāna-loa Breeze / Sweet Tomato Basil Mocktail

Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Hawaii, this mocktail is infused with the tropical essence of the islands. Sweet tomato and basil are combined with Hawaiian elements such as pineapple, coconut water, and a hint of lime, creating a refreshing drink that feels like a light ocean breeze. “Kāna-loa,” named after the Hawaiian god of the ocean, embodies the drink’s cool, refreshing nature with a twist of island charm.

Ingredients for Sweet Tomato Basil Mocktail:

• 3 ripe cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 5 fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed pineapple juice (using ripe, sweet pineapple)
• 1/2 cup coconut water (preferably fresh)
• 1/2 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional depending on level of sweetness)
• 1/4 cup club soda (for light fizz)
• Ice cubes
• Pineapple wedges and a basil sprig for garnish

How to Prepare the Tomato-Basil Mixture:

In a cocktail shaker, muddle the cherry tomatoes and basil leaves until their juices and flavours have been released. The fresh tomato flavor will blend perfectly with the fragrant basil base of the mocktail.

Add Hawaiian Flavours:

Add fresh pineapple juice, coconut water, lime juice, and honey to the shaker. Stir or shake gently to mix the flavors. Pineapple and coconut water will add a sweet, tropical touch to the tomato-basil flavor profile.

Strain:

Strain into a glass with ice cubes in it, thereby removing tomato skin and basil pieces for a silky smooth and refreshing texture.

Fizz:

Top with club soda for a light fizz that makes the drink feel airy, just like a Hawaiian breeze.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with a pineapple wedge on the rim of the glass and a sprig of fresh basil for an extra touch of tropical flair.

Tips:

For a Hawaiian twist, rim the glass with sea salt and grated coconut for a salty-sweet contrast.

Serve over ice with chilled coconut water for ultimate refreshment.
Kāna-loa Breeze blends Mediterranean freshness with Hawaiian flair, making it the perfect mocktail for warm days and island gatherings.

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