Fun fact: star anise is a good source of shikimic acid, which is used in the production of the flu-fighting medication oseltamivir (Tamiflu). So, with influenza season closing in, a star anise-infused Flu Shot might be just the thing.

Hart House Restaurant’s lead cocktail designer, Luba Lojpur, created this smooth drink with caramel and citrus notes and a toasty finish.  

Hart House Restaurant’s Flu Shot

1 ½ oz Belvedere Single Estate Vodka Lake Bartęźek 
½ oz Amaro Montenegro
⅓ oz star anise-infused simple syrup
1 - 2 dashes Angostura bitters

To make simple syrup, add two whole star anise to the liquid during the sugar reduction.

Chill a coupe glass with ice. 

Fill a Boston shaker with ice and add vodka, amaro, and simple syrup. 

Stir gently. 

Add bitters (one dash for a sweeter drink, 2 for a stronger flavour).

Empty coupe glass of ice. Pour liquid through a strainer into the chilled coupe glass. 

Take two star anise and use a torch or lighter to toast it under the flame. While still smoking, drop the anise into the glass.