HelloFresh is honored this week to feature a delicious recipe from our friend and guest chef, Palak Patel. Chef Palak is quickly becoming a household name with her appearances and victories on Food Network classics, such as Chopped and Bobby Flay. Currently working as a private chef in New York, Palak infuses her Indian culture into many of her meals.

Take a trip to Southern India with her mouthwatering Shrimp Curry. Shrimp steeped in creamy coconut milk, infused with rich aromas from curry leaves, tomatoes, onions and garma masala make this a decadent dish. These flavors will transport you to the tranquil backwaters of Kerala where the cuisine is as colorful as the region.

In addition to her delectable dish, Palak also shared an incredible Spiced Bourbon cocktail recipe with us that is sure to wow the crowd.

For masala spice syrup:

• 4-5 green cardamom pods
• 2 whole star anise pod
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 inch ginger, sliced
• ½ teaspoon garma masala
• 1 lemon
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar

For the Cocktails:

• 6 ounces bourbon, such as Bulleit Bourbon
• 3 ounces garma masala syrup
• 2 ounces fresh juice from 2 to 3 lemons
• 8 ounces black tea
• 1 cinnamon stick for garnish
• Pinch of garma masala
• 1 star anise

Method:

For the Masala Spice Syrup: Toast cardamom pods, star anise, cloves, and one cinnamon stick in a dry medium skillet over medium heat, tossing and stirring frequently until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add garma masala, ginger, sugar, and water and place over medium high heat. Cook, stirring, until just starting to boil. Cover and remove from heat. Let rest for 2 hours. Strain into an airtight container.

For the Cocktails: In a pitcher, combine bourbon, 3 ounces masala spice syrup, and lemon juice. Stir well. Add tea and stir gently. To serve, fill rocks glasses with ice, pour in 4 3/4 ounces of the cocktail and garnish with cinnamon stick and pinch of garma masala.

Don’t forget to order Palak’s Shrimp Curry before meal choice cutoff tomorrow!

Happy Cooking!