DRINK : Dry January made easy with Talonmore

2024, a new year, with many of us choosing to participate in Dry January, a month-long challenge to abstain from alcohol. This annual tradition has gained widespread popularity as it offers participants the opportunity to reset their relationship with alcohol and re-evaluate their habits. Also some just like to give their liver a break!

If you’ve reached the half way mark and made it through Blue Monday and Quit Friday, congratulations. But you might be chapping at the bit to get out, be sociable again and have a drink. I have the perfect recommendation for you - keeping you on the no alcohol wagon whilst still tucking into some hearty food and accompanied drink.

DRINK : BEAT THE DRY JANUARY BLUES WITH TALONMORE HOT TODDYS AND PERFECT COMFORT FOOD AT MAKARS MASH BAR

It’s time for you to enjoy Talonmore - a fiery ginger-infused, non-alcoholic spirit that I honestly can say is one of the most delicious non alcoholic drinks on the market. Talonmore Drinks Company is a Scottish based, family run business, established in Edinburgh in 2020. Using brewing methods of manufacture, rather than distilling, Talonmore have developed a unique beverage that ensures flavour is at the forefront, replicating the experience of drinking a dark spirit. It’s vegan friendly, gluten-free, egg-free and caffeine free.

Talonmore have teamed up with Makars Mash Bar on the Mound, Edinburgh to help you through what’s left of January by providing seriously hearty fare.

Two of Makars Mash’s popular dishes have been paired with two winter warming drinks made with Talonmore.

TALONMORE GINGER HOT TODDY

A non-alcoholic hot toddy is the perfect soothing beverage for those seeking warmth and comfort without the alcohol. Picture a steaming glass filled with fragrant ginger notes. This delightful concoction not only warms the hands but delivers a gentle, soothing heat that envelopes you like a cosy blanket. This Talonmore hot toddy offers all the comfort and nostalgia of the classic recipe without the alcohol.

SLOW COOKED BEEF SHOULDER WITH RICH HORSERADISH INFUSED GRAVY (£22 including either Talonmore drink)

There's something deeply satisfying about a hearty plate of beef shoulder and mash. The rich, tender beef shoulder, slow-cooked to perfection, fell apart at the mere touch of a fork. Its succulent, melt-in-your-mouth texture is a testament to the time and care it took to prepare. Paired with cheesy, creamy, buttery mashed potatoes, the dish becomes a comforting symphony of flavours and textures. Each bite was a savoury indulgence, the robust beef complemented by the smooth, velvety potatoes. The luscious gravy, drizzled over the top, ties the dish together with its deep, umami notes, adding a luxurious richness that satisfies the soul as much as the belly. This is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, leaving you deeply content and utterly satiated.

TALONMORE GINGER OLD FASHIONED

This is essentially a Whisky Old Fashioned bursting with those warming ginger notes from Talonmore with an extra boost of orange.

LIONS MANE MUSHROOM IN A RED WINE AND ROSEMARY JUS (£20 including either Talonmore drink)

This dish is packed with rich umami flavour from the lion's mane mushroom which beautifully complements the creamy, buttery bacon mash. The dish was elevated by the velvety red wine and rosemary jus, which added a layer of depth and warmth to each bite. The tender, meaty texture of the lion's mane mushroom, combined with the smoothness of the mash, makes each mouthful a true delight. This plate was a testament to the magic that happens when fresh, quality ingredients are expertly prepared with care and creativity. (Makars Mash Bar they grown their own mushrooms!)

There is always of course room for a STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING!

This is a superb collaboration. Both are top tier in non-alcoholic drinks and comfort food.

This collab is on till the end of January and is definitely a January must visit.

Makars Mash Bar, 9 and 12 North Bank Street, The Mound, Edinburgh. www.makarsmash.com/edinburgh/

Talonmore can be purchased for £25 from their website www.talonmoredrinks.com/products/talonmore