The Courageous Lotus

Inspired by the bravery and resilience of the women who served during the Vietnam War, The Courageous Lotus is a cocktail that blends the delicate floral notes of lotus tea with the invigorating kick of vodka and the subtle sweetness of lychee. This drink pays homage to the strength and grace of these heroic women. **Ingredients:** - 2 oz premium vodka - 1 oz lychee liqueur - 1 oz fresh lime juice - 1 oz lotus tea syrup (recipe below) - A splash of club soda - Lotus flower petal or lychee fruit, for garnish - Ice **Lotus Tea Syrup:** - 1 cup water - 2 lotus tea bags - 1 cup sugar **To make the Lotus Tea Syrup:** 1. Boil the water and steep the lotus tea bags for 5 minutes. 2. Remove the tea bags and stir in the sugar until it dissolves. 3. Allow to cool before using in the cocktail. **Instructions:** 1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. 2. Add vodka, lychee liqueur, fresh lime juice, and lotus tea syrup. 3. Shake well until the mixture is chilled. 4. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice. 5. Top with a splash of club soda. 6. Garnish with a lotus flower petal or a lychee fruit. **Glassware:** Serve in a highball glass. This drink is a celebration of valor and femininity, symbolized by the lotus, a flower that flourishes beautifully even in adversity.