The new year is typically a time of change, resolutions, and self-improvement. Donuts everywhere are being passed up for fat-free-sugar-free-gluten-free muffins and gyms are experiencing colossal spikes in new members. While I am all for this self-love and resolution making, I am also a fan of resolutions one can keep — there is no point in setting a goal that can’t be sustained only to be served up epic portions of self-loathing in February. One achievable resolution is to incorporate more veggies in your life, and with the 17 Carrot Gold, you can check this off your list every day at happy hour. In behavioral economics, this is referred to as “temptation bundling,” which, simply put, is encouraging oneself to combine something enjoyable with an activity they feel they should or must do as a way of ensuring the task one feels obligated to doing is achieved.
It is my firm belief that agave-based spirits are an incredible motivator and lead to feelings of euphoria one often affiliates with days spent on the beach. The 17 Carrot Gold combines smoky mezcal, fresh carrot and lemon juice, with local honey syrup to rejuvenate both the body and spirit (note, I say this as a bartender and not as a scientist, though my experience both serving and drinking this cocktail should serve as proof). Freshly squeezed carrot juice and honey syrup offers a sweeter side to those on the juicing bandwagon, while the fresh lemon brightens the smoky undertones of the mezcal. While I don’t think behavioral economists had mixing fresh-squeezed produce into cocktails on their mind when they coined this term, it might be worth arguing that this permutation of “temptation-bundling” makes meeting your daily veggie requirements a sure thing.
17 Carrot Gold
- 1.5 ounces Mezcal (Del Maguey’s “Vida” is a great option for those who are new to the spirit)
- 3/4 ounce Carrot Juice (fresh squeezed or store bought)
- 3/4 ounce Lemon Juice
- 3/4 ounce Honey Syrup
Combine all ingredients into a shaker with ice. Shake and strain over fresh ice. Garnish with a lemon wheel (you can add a sprig of cilantro for an extra healthy looking aesthetic).
Honey Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup honey
Bring water and honey to a boil. Let simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat. Let sit until cool. Refrigerate.
Shelby Hinte is a writer from Southern New Mexico. She currently writes and tends bar in the Bay Area. In 2015 she was a featured female bartender at the Girl’s Inc. annual TASTE event in Oakland.
