Tropical Daze

It's 85 degrees in Maine. It's Friday. Has there ever been a better time for a boozy, fruity, frozen drink? This one is for all the folks looking for a tropical vacation without the plane ride. Highly recommend! 

Makes 2 cocktails

Ingredients:

For the simple syrup:

• 2 tablespoons hibiscus petals
• 3-5 whole star anise
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 cup water

For the cocktail:

• 1/3 cup frozen passion fruit
• 1/3 cup frozen mango
• 1 banana
• 2 fl oz dark rum 

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan, mix the sugar and water over low heat. Add the star anise and hibiscus. Once the sugar has dissolved, remove from heat and let cool. Strain into a sealable container. The simple syrup will keep for weeks in a cool, dry place. 
2. Blend the fruit and rum. Pour into cocktail glasses and top each drink with 1-3 teaspoons of simple syrup. Enjoy!