Margarita Madness: 5 Refreshing Spring Margaritas

Margarita Madness: 5 Refreshing Spring Margaritas

Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or preparing for spring’s many family celebrations, a great host or hostess doesn’t cut corners on libations. Going out to restaurants for food cooked expertly by a chef while having fun with your loved ones creates cherished memories.

Want to bring the party to your front door? With these 5 amazing drink recipes plus catering from Kpacho, you can!

Classic Margarita

You can’t mess with a crowd-pleaser. Classic margaritas are sure to be a hit at all your upcoming holiday parties and events.

A batch of classic margaritas for 6 starts with these simple ingredients:

Sea salt or sugar for the rim

6 oz tequila

6 oz Cointreau

6 oz fresh lime juice, plus ¼ cut lime wedges for garnish

3 oz simple syrup (or more to taste)

Ice

To make on the rocks:

1. Put salt or sugar on a flat plate based on your rim preference.

2. With a wedge of lime, moisten the rim of a margarita glass. Dip your rim in the salt or sugar, repeating the process with each remaining glass.

3. Combine tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, and simple syrup in a pitcher. Stir until well combined.

4. Add the preferred amount of ice to each margarita glass. Pour equal amounts from the pitcher into each glass, garnish with lime, and serve.

To make frozen:

1. Put salt or sugar on a flat plate based on your rim preference.

2. With a wedge of lime, moisten the rim of a margarita glass. Dip your rim in the salt or sugar, repeating the process with each remaining glass.

3. Combine tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, simple syrup, and 2 cups of ice in a blender. Blend until smooth.

4. Pour equal amounts from the blender into each glass, garnish with lime, and serve.

Tamarind Margarita

Inspired by Food Diary of a City Girl, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for the less experienced bartenders among us! This recipe makes enough drinks for six people, so feel free to adjust the recipe according to your party size.

To make this delightful drink, gather the following ingredients:

6 oz Tamarind Syrup

6 oz Tequila Reposado

3 oz Cointreau

6 cups of ice

6 limes

6 tbsp Tajín

To prepare the margaritas:

1. Grab a cutting board and knife and slice three limes in half. Slice the other limes in ¼ inch sections – these smaller slices will be used to garnish the cocktails.

2. Add 6 tbsp of Tajín to a flat plate. Tajín will be used to coat the rim or a small section of the cocktail glasses.

3. Moisten the rim of one cocktail glass using a lime.  Dip the moistened rim into the Tajín to coat.  Repeat the process for the remaining 5 glasses.

4. Using a citrus press juicer, juice 3 limes into a large pitcher.

5. Add Tamarind Syrup, Tequila Reposado, Cointreau, and ice to your pitcher. Stir contents until items are well mixed.

6. Pour equal amounts into your 6 prepared cocktail glasses.

Magical Color Changing Margarita

This exciting recipe by Fox and Briar is sure to wow your spring party guests!

While a bit more involved than your average margarita recipe, the payoff is worth it.

Begin making 6oz of butterfly pea-infused tequila. To do this, add 3 cups of silver tequila and 24 dried butterfly pea flowers to a jar with a well-fitting lid. Soak for 2-3 hours, then drain out the flowers and keep the remaining tequila in a sealed container. This will give you enough tequila to make 12 drinks.

To make the drinks:

1. Put salt on a flat plate. Run a lime around the rim of 12 glasses, and dip those glasses into the salt plate.

2. Add one ice cube and 2oz of the butterfly-infused tequila to each glass.

3. In a pitcher, combine 12 oz lime juice, 9 oz of triple sec, ice, and an optional 6 oz of simple syrup. Stir until combined and chilled.

4. Slowly pour the mixture into each glass, and watch as drinks magically turn from blue to purple.

Rosé Margaritas

Danilicious knows that every successful bachelorette party and bridal or baby shower has rosé. This mashup of two beloved drinks makes for a perfect brunch celebration beverage.

To make enough for 6 drinks, you will need:

12 oz of Rosé wine

6 oz tequila about 4 tablespoons

6 oz fresh lime juice about 1/4 cup

3 oz elderflower liquor about 2 tablespoons

3-6 teaspoons agave dependent on sweetness level

3/4 cup margarita salt, optional

3/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries crushed into a fine powder, optional

To make these flirty and fun drinks:

1. Mix your freeze-dried strawberries and margarita salt in a wide-brimmed, shallow bowl.

2. Wet all six glass rims with a lime wedge. Dip each glass into the salt mixture to rim the glass. 3. Place ice in your pitcher. Add all of the ingredients and stir vigorously.

4. Pour the margaritas between the six prepared glasses.

5. Garnish with a lime wedge and toast!

Spicy Habanero Pineapple Margarita

For those who like their margaritas sweet with a little kick, we’ve enlisted help from Isabel Orozco-Moore, a Mexican-American Margarita Expert.

Before making these sweet but spicy delights for you and 5 friends, gather:

9 oz silver tequila

3 habanero peppers, thinly sliced

3 cups pineapple juice

4.5 oz triple sec

6 tablespoons lime juice, or the juice of 3 limes

Margarita salt, for rimming

Pineapple slices, lime wedges for serving

To make these hotties:

1. Run a lime wedge around the rim of 6 individual 12-ounce glass and dip in salt. Add ice to each glass, and set the glasses aside.

2. Add tequila and 6 thin slices of habanero to a pitcher. Using a cocktail muddler or the back of a spoon, lightly muddle and press on the habaneros to release some of the oils and spice.

3. Add the pineapple juice, triple sec, and lime juice. Stir to combine.

4. Garnish with a lime wedge and a pineapple slice, then serve.

Celebrate Spring with Kpacho

Whether gathering with family or friends, Kpacho is here to provide you with the best restaurant experience and meet all your catering needs.

Come visit us today to figure out how we can help add flavor to all your spring gatherings!

20 Romantic Date Night Ideas For Valentine’s Day

20 Romantic Date Night Ideas For Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to throw a holiday party for two. But with the many Valentine’s Day ideas out there for you and your special someone to celebrate this year, choosing the best option can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.

Not sure how to spend your Valentine’s Day this year? Worry no more! This article will cover our top 20 romantic date night ideas to turn regular date nights into events you’ll remember forever. Let’s dive in!

1. Order Food In

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to combine food and fun into a night you and your special someone won’t forget. Why not start the evening by ordering a romantic meal with a delicious chocolate dessert?

Instead of ordering one big meal, you can even order food for each other – giving this date night idea an extra element of surprise!

2. Or Cook for Each Other

Ordering food isn’t the only option for incorporating food into your romantic date night. Why not spend the evening cooking for your loved one while they do the same for you? Pop a bottle of champagne, lay out the fancy dishes, and light some candles for a dinner date you’ll love!

3. Make it a Movie Night

Movies are a classic date idea; chances are you’ve been on a movie date sometime in your life. Why not make this idea your Valentine’s celebration by going out to see a romantic movie with your partner? You can also watch classic romantic movies at home – whatever setting you’re most comfortable in! Add in some chocolate movie snacks for the complete Valentine’s experience.

4. Get a Couples Massage

Why not add luxury to your Valentine’s Day celebration this year? A couples massage is the perfect way to relax with your loved one. If you’re not feeling the spa, stay home and give each other massages – it’s just as relaxing and twice as romantic!

5. Make it a Family Celebration

Valentine’s Day doesn’t only have to be about you and your partner – you can transform this day into one of your classic family celebrations in no time! Invite all your friends and family members in a relationship to have a relaxed party where you combine your shared love with delicious food and fun activities. The more the merrier!

You can make your own food or consider catering for this idea!

6. Walk the Beach

There’s no place quite as romantic as the beach in the evening. Why not make this idea your Valentine’s Day celebration and end the day by taking a romantic walk on the beach? Enjoy the sounds of the ocean and the sight of the sun setting as you honor your love with the most important person in your life.

7. Have Fun at a Dance Class

Dancing is a romantic language – especially if you know what you’re doing! You can make Valentine’s Day memorable by taking a dancing class with your partner. Learn new moves or practice ones you’re already familiar with until you perfect them!

8. Enjoy Game Night

What’s more fun than a night at home playing your favorite games? You can make Valentine’s Day an exciting party by transforming your celebration into a game night for two, playing classic games, or investing in some Valentine’s-themed games – there’s plenty out there if you take a quick look!

9. Watch a Play

The theater is a favorite date night spot for many people, and watching a play on Valentine’s Day is one of the best ways to commemorate the special occasion. Take your special someone to the local theater and enjoy a fine arts and romance night!

10. Go to an Arcade

Game night doesn’t have to be held at home. Why not go to an arcade with your loved one to celebrate Valentine’s Day in a fun, fast-paced environment with a healthy dose of competition? One thing is certain: you won’t forget this date idea anytime soon.

11. Head to a Concert

Do you and your partner love music or have a favorite musician in common? Then we’ve got the perfect Valentine’s date night for you: an exciting concert! Get tickets for a local show and spend the night listening to live music – it’s a date you’ll surely enjoy.

12. Embark on a Wine-Tasting Tour

What drink is more romantic than wine? That’s right: none of them. Take your Valentine’s Day to the next level by embarking on a wine-tasting tour with your loved one, experiencing all the world’s flavors – and taking home some bottles to enjoy in the evening!

13. Have a Roller Rink Date

Rollerskating is a classic date idea for a reason: it’s fun and gets you and your partner moving! Take your special someone to the nearest roller rink, put on some skates, and get to gliding as you enjoy a romantic and unforgettable Valentine’s Day.

14. Take a Mixology Class

Making a drink for your loved one is a small but beautiful way of showing your love. Why not learn how to make your partner’s favorite drink by taking a mixology class for Valentine’s Day? These classes will help you discover the skills you need to make drinks like a pro – so you can go home after class and mix up some delicious beverages!

15. Relive Your First Date

Do you remember your first date with your partner in clear detail? We thought so. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate your love by recreating the first time you went out together, reliving the experience through a new lens.

16. Bond Over Ice Skating

Valentine’s Day is a winter holiday – which means it’s still the perfect time to go ice skating! Put on some skates and hit the ice with your loved one for a memorable night of fun, laughs, and romance.

17. Navigate an Escape Room

If you’re a fan of puzzles and games, an escape room is right up your alley for your Valentine’s Day date night. Find a local escape room, choose an experience you and your partner are interested in, and try to figure out the puzzle before time runs out!

18. Make it a Double Date

Do you have a best friend or loved one celebrating Valentine’s Day this year? Make it a double date and celebrate the holiday with the two who mean the most to you! Valentine’s Day is perfect for bonding and enjoying a night out with another couple as you bask in your shared love.

19. Watch the Stars

Stargazing is easily one of the dreamiest and most romantic experiences you could ask for – and stargazing on Valentine’s Day makes an already romantic activity even more mesmerizing. Kick back, relax, and enjoy the sights of stars above your head as you lie next to your loved one.

20. Have a Picnic

A picnic in the park is the perfect way to start – or finish – your Valentine’s Day. Pack a picnic basket with your favorite snacks, toss in some wine or champagne, and don’t forget desserts like chocolate-covered strawberries to make the experience one for the books!

Cater Your Valentine’s Day With Kpacho

Whether planning one of your famous holiday parties or looking for a celebration for two, we’ve got you covered at Kpacho. Kpacho provides all your catering needs to ensure a memorable celebration with delicious food and plenty of fun.

Check out our restaurants or contact Kpacho today to plan your Valentine’s Day catering!

Raise a Toast to the New Year with these Top 10 Latin Eats & Drinks

Raise a Toast to the New Year with these Top 10 Latin Eats & Drinks

Thanksgiving day came and went, and Christmas and New Year’s are right around the corner. This is the time of year when everyone starts brainstorming Christmas party ideas and Christmas gift ideas and dreaming of their favorite recipes for Thanksgiving. But while the holidays are a wonderful time for enjoying long-held traditions and favorite foods, it’s also the perfect opportunity to try new things.

Here at KPacho, we love Latin cuisine and all the fun culinary traditions Latin culture has to offer around the holidays. That’s why today, we’re sharing ten of our favorite Latin foods and drinks to help you add a fun twist to this year’s ideas for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or any kind of family celebration.

1. Pisco Sour

The pisco sour is a classic South American cocktail originating from Peru and Chile. This iconic drink seamlessly blends the robust character of pisco (a grape brandy) with the zestiness of fresh lime juice, the sweetness of simple syrup, and the velvety texture of egg white. Accentuated with a few dashes of bitters, the pisco sour has become a symbol of sophistication in Latin American mixology. Its frothy texture and tantalizing combination of flavors make it a staple at festive events of many kinds.

2. Tamales

Tamales are a dish that’s deeply rooted in Mesoamerican culture. These delicious treats are made from masa (corn dough) and filled with various ingredients such as meats, cheeses, or chilies, then wrapped in corn husks and steamed. Tamales carry a great deal of Latin cultural significance and can often be found on the menu at parties and community gatherings. Add them to your Thanksgiving dinner, or bring them out as one of your Christmas party appetizers and watch them become an instant favorite!

3. Cuban Rum Punch

Embodying the laid-back charm of the Caribbean, Cuban rum punch is a delightful fusion of Cuban rum with pineapple and orange juice, finished with a touch of grenadine and a hint of lime. This fruity concoction transports you to sun-soaked beaches with every sip. Whether enjoyed under the sun or at this year’s New Year’s Eve party, Cuban rum punch channels the joyous and carefree ambiance of the region.

4. Empanadas

Empanadas are a culinary treasure that originated in Spain and were later adapted into diverse regional variations. These hand-held pastries consist of a delicate, flaky crust that envelops a whole host of fillings. From savory meats and cheeses to many different kinds of vegetables, empanadas showcase the culinary creativity inherent in Latin American cooking. Bake or fry them to golden perfection for a perfect appetizer at any New Year’s Eve dinner or Christmas office party. They also make one of the best Thanksgiving sides.

5. Coquito

The coquito is a beloved Puerto Rican tradition. It’s more than just a drink — it’s a creamy, coconut-infused experience. This luscious coconut eggnog embodies the holiday season with a combination of coconut milk, condensed milk, evaporated milk, and a generous pour of rum. A hint of cinnamon adds a warm, festive touch to the mix, making each sip a celebration of Puerto Rican culture. Whether you’re sharing with everyone at a large New Year’s gathering or sipping around the fire with friends on a cozy evening, the coquito invokes holiday cheer like few other drinks can.

6. Cuban Paninis

Inspired by the classic Cuban sandwich, Cuban Paninis are an ode to the fusion of Latin and Caribbean culinary influences. Layer thinly sliced ham, succulent roasted pork, Swiss cheese, zesty pickles, and a touch of mustard (or sometimes salami), and carefully press between slices of Cuban bread. Grill them until they’re nice and crispy, and dig into a symphony of flavors and textures, from crispy exterior to melty, savory interior.

7. Piña Colada

Who doesn’t love a good piña colada? Born on the shores of Puerto Rico, this classic cocktail tastes like a liquid vacation in a glass. It combines the rich creaminess of coconut cream with the sweet tang of pineapple juice — all balanced around the spirited kick of white rum. Blend to a smooth consistency with ice and serve to your New Year’s Eve guests to send them on a tropical sensory journey.

8. Plantain Chips with Guacamole

Plantain chips are the perfect snack to have on hand for holiday parties (or all kinds of events year-round). Slice plantains thinly and fry them until crispy for a delightfully crunchy snack. Add homemade guacamole made with ripe avocados, lime, and a dash or fresh cilantro to turn your plantain chips into an elegant appetizer fit for any fun-filled event. If you want, you can bulk up your guacamole even more with an assortment of diced vegetables like onions, tomatoes, peppers, or whatever you like best.

9. Paloma

The Paloma is a cherished Mexican cocktail that delights the taste buds with its perfect balance of flavors. Tequila takes center stage in this drink, paired with the effervescent grapefruit soda, a splash of lime juice, and just a touch of salt. This lightly carbonated concoction not only refreshes the palate but also perfectly complements the bold and spicy notes found in many types of Latin cuisine. Serve it at any party or gathering this holiday season and delight your guests with a refreshing Mexican classic.

10. Stuffed Jalapenos

Stuffed Jalapeños are bite-sized explosions of culinary creativity with a fiery kick. They’re typically filled with a blend of cream cheese and shredded cheese and are sometimes complemented by savory meats or vegetables. You’ll find them at many kinds of social gatherings and game day spreads, but they also make an ideal snack or appetizer for a holiday party.

Get a Taste of Latin Cuisine at KPacho

Looking for more fun New Year’s Eve dinner ideas or “New Year’s Eve dinner near me?” Add KPacho to your list of restaurants to try this holiday season for a memorable and fun-filled occasion every time. Need catering or New Year’s dinner ideas? Stop by KPacho for all your catering needs, get some takeout, or grab a seat and dine in with us. We hope to see you soon!

10 Festive Holiday Drinks with a Latin Twist

10 Festive Holiday Drinks with a Latin Twist

In the sea of brainstorming Christmas gift ideas and searching for New Year’s Eve dinner recipes, one thing is often overlooked: the delicious drinks accompanying your holiday party.

If you’re looking for the best drinks for your upcoming holiday parties, we’ve got you covered with this list – so you can stick with searching for fun Christmas party outfit ideas while sipping on a delicious beverage!

1. Coquito

What’s a better drink to accompany your Christmas party appetizers than a delicious eggnog? Coquito is a delicious Puerto Rican eggnog drink and one of our favorite ideas for Christmas beverages. To make our favorite recipe, which serves 7-10 people, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 7 ounces of 100% canned coconut milk
  • 6 ounces of white rum
  • 6 ounces of evaporated milk
  • 2.5 ounces of sweetened condensed milk, more to taste
  • ½ teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon
  • ⅛ teaspoon of nutmeg

To make the drink:

  1. Place all of the ingredients into your blender bowl.
  2. Blend for 2-3 minutes until it’s mixed and frothy.
  3. Pour the beverage into a bottle and refrigerate until chilled.
  4. Shake again before serving and serve in chilled shot glasses sprinkled with cinnamon.
  5. For larger glasses, serve over ice – and enjoy one of our favorite Christmas party ideas!

2. Mexican Ponche

This Mexican Christmas punch is another of our favorite ideas for Christmas and will certainly take your Christmas office party or family celebration to the next level. To make 16 servings of this drink, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup of dried hibiscus flowers
  • 24 cups of water divided
  • 20 cloves
  • 2 oranges
  • 2 cups of drained Tejocotes from 1 32-ounce jar of GOYA® Tejocote
  • 1 package of frozen GOYA® Guava
  • 6 sticks of frozen GOYA® whole sugar cane
  • 2 cones of GOYA® brown sugar cane
  • 1 medium apple, chopped
  • 1 medium pear, chopped
  • 1 cup of pitted prunes, chopped
  • 1 cup of walnut halves
  • ½ cup of raisins
  • 4 GOYA® cinnamon sticks
  • Optional: rum, brandy, or tequila to taste

To make the drink, complete the following steps:

  1. Boil the hibiscus flowers and 4 cups of water in a pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Remove from the stove and steep for 20 minutes.
  3. While steeping, press the sharp side of 10 cloves into one orange. Repeat with the remaining cloves and oranges.
  4. Strain the hibiscus mixture into a large pot and discard the solids. Add 20 cups of water, orange pieces, tejocotes, guava, sugar cane sticks, brown sugar cane, apple, pear, pitted prunes, walnut halves, raisins, and cinnamon sticks.
  5. Boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
  6. Lower the heat and simmer for 1 hour.
  7. Serve the drink warm or chilled, and add liquor if desired.

3. Cranberry Mojito

This recipe is one of our favorite drinks for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, but it can also be served for your Christmas or New Year’s Eve party! To make 4 servings of our favorite cranberry mojito, collect the following ingredients:

  • 15-16 mint leaves
  • 4 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • ¼ cup of lime juice
  • 1 cup of cranberry juice
  • 6 ounces of white rum
  • 1 cup of seltzer water
  • Ice
  • Lime slices, cranberries, and mint to garnish

With all your ingredients, make the drink as follows:

  1. Break the mint leaves up in a jar using the back of a wooden spoon or a pestle.
  2. Add the brown sugar, lime juice, rum, cranberry juice, and seltzer water. Stir.
  3. Serve over ice and garnish with desired ingredients.

4. Canelazo

Canelazo is a delicious cinnamon hot drink that we love serving on Thanksgiving Day, but its warmth also makes it one of our favorite Christmas or New Year’s dinner ideas! To make 4 servings of canelazo, gather the following ingredients:

  • 3 cups of water
  • ⅔ cup of light brown sugar
  • ⅔ cup of dark brown sugar
  • 1 juiced lime
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of whole cloves
  • 4-6 cinnamon sticks
  • ½ cup of orange juice
  • 4 ounces of aguardiente, or rum

Make the drink as follows:

  1. Add the water, sugars, lime juice, salt, cloves, and cinnamon to a pot and boil.
  2. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  3. Take away from the heat and add in orange juice.
  4. Add the rum.
  5. Reheat the drink without bringing it to a boil. Strain and serve.

5. Cola de Mono

This drink is yet another one of our favorite recipes for Thanksgiving, but it can be served at any of your holiday parties! Collect the following ingredients to make 12-14 servings:

  • 1 cup of granulated sugar
  • 1 cup of cold water
  • ½ ounce of Mexican cinnamon sticks, about 4
  • 2 cloves
  • 4 cups or 1 quart of whole milk
  • 1 ½ cups of freshly brewed coffee, cold
  • 1 ½ cups of Chilean pisco
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

To make cola de mono for your Thanksgiving or New Year’s Eve dinner, take the following steps:

  1. Bring the sugar, water, cinnamon, and cloves to a boil in a small saucepan. Simmer for 5 minutes and place aside to cool.
  2. Transfer to a large pitcher and add the coffee, milk, pisco, and vanilla. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate the drink until cool.
  4. Serve in small tumbler glasses.

6. Pumpkin Caipirinha

One of the best Thanksgiving party ideas is serving this classic pumpkin drink! To make this along with your best Thanksgiving sides, collect the following items:

  • ½ lime cut into 4 pieces
  • ½ ounce of agave nectar
  • ¼ teaspoon of freshly grated ginger, optional
  • ½ cup of crushed ice
  • 1 ½ ounces of white rum or cachaça
  • 1 ½ ounces of pumpkin puree
  • ½ ounce of ginger liqueur
  • Nutmeg, cinnamon, lemon, lime, mint, or pumpkin to garnish

To make this drink:

  1. Add the lime, agave, and fresh ginger to a cocktail shaker and muddle.
  2. Add the ice, rum, puree, and ginger liqueur and shake well.
  3. Garnish as desired.

7. Cinnamon Apple Cider Sangria

No matter what events you’re celebrating, there’s no going wrong with a sangria recipe. To make six servings of this recipe, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 750 ml bottle of wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Grigio work best)
  • 2 cups of apple cider
  • ½ cup of orange juice
  • 3 cinnamon sticks
  • 2 apples
  • 1 orange
  • ½ cup of brandy

To make the sangria, complete the following steps:

  1. Chop the apples and slice the orange. Add both to a pitcher.
  2. Add the cinnamon sticks, brandy, wine, orange juice, and apple cider. Stir.
  3. Rest in the fridge for at least 3 hours. Pour into glasses and serve.

8. Sorrel

Who says all of your holiday drinks need to be alcoholic? For non-alcoholic recipes, sorrel is one of our best New Year’s Eve dinner ideas. Gather the following ingredients to make 12 servings:

  • 1 pound of sorrel
  • 8 cups of water
  • 1-inch piece of ginger
  • 1 ⅓ cup of brown sugar

To make the drink:

  1. Mix the seedless sorrel, ginger, and 8 cups of water over medium heat. Boil and let simmer for 15 minutes.
  2. Cool the mixture for 10 minutes, then strain into a large bowl.
  3. Add water to lighten the mixture. Start with one cup, then taste and adjust.
  4. Sweeten to taste using the sugar, 1-2 cups.
  5. Refrigerate until cold and serve.

9. Atole de Elote

Another non-alcoholic recipe for family celebrations is this delicious Atole de Elote. Collect the following ingredients to make 6 cups:

  • 2 cups of water
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 6 fresh corn
  • ⅔ cup of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons of water for the cornstarch
  • 4 cups of milk
  • Ground cinnamon for topping

To make the drink:

  1. Boil 1 cup of water and cinnamon stick for 5 minutes.
  2. Shave the sides of the corn and remove the kernels, reserving ½ cup of kernels.
  3. Add the kernels to a blender with 1 cup of water and blend until smooth.
  4. Strain the mixture into the pot with cinnamon.
  5. Add the sugar and ½ cup of kernels.
  6. Dissolve cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of water.
  7. Add the milk and cornstarch mix to the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low.
  8. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour into cups, dust with cinnamon, and serve.

10. Rompope

Another eggnog recipe to pair with your favorite holiday food is delicious rompope. To make this drink, gather the following ingredients:

  • 6 cups of milk
  • 1 ¼ cups of granulated sugar
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 clove
  • ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
  • ⅓ cup of slivered almonds
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 8 large egg yolks, whisked
  • ½-1 cup of dark rum for serving

To make the drink:

  1. Combine the milk, sugar, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg in a pot over medium heat and whisk together. Bring to a simmer, whisking every minute. Remove from heat.
  2. Add 2 cups of sweetened milk to a small bowl with the slivered almonds. Set aside and sit for 30 minutes.
  3. Remove the cinnamon stick and clove from the first mixture.
  4. Place the soaked almonds into a blender and blend until smooth.
  5. Place the almond milk and vanilla extract in the pot and whisk to combine.
  6. Slowly add the egg yolks, whisking until incorporated.
  7. Place over medium-low heat for 12-15 minutes, whisking every minute until the mixture is thickened and coats the back of a spoon.
  8. Add ½-1 cup of rum and whisk to combine. Serve in mugs and top with cinnamon.

Celebrate Your Holiday With Our Catering

KPacho meets all of your catering needs to make your holiday special. Instead of desperately searching for “New Year’s Eve dinner near me” or “Thanksgiving dinner near me,” stop into our restaurants for all of your holiday food needs!

10 Sweet and Savory Holiday Recipes You’ll Love

10 Sweet and Savory Holiday Recipes You’ll Love

The holiday season is synonymous with joy, cheer, and the spirit of sharing, beckoning families, event planners, and companies to create memorable gatherings. As couples, groups, and family events take center stage, the allure of the festivities is often encapsulated in the banquet that celebrates togetherness. A diverse spread of delectable dishes satiates taste buds. It mirrors every guest’s preferences and tastes, making the feast a conversation starter.

Whether it’s the savory goodness of a roast turkey or the sweet delicacy of a pumpkin pie, the essence of the holiday spirit is often found nestled in the heart of a hearty meal. As you plan your next holiday gathering, we’ve curated a list of 10 sweet and savory recipes bound to be loved by all, ensuring your Christmas party or New Year’s Eve dinner is etched in memory for times to come.

We have segmented these recipe suggestions into holiday categories, but you can mix and match them to suit your needs!

Recipes for Thanksgiving

We are sharing a couple of the best Thanksgiving sides to add to your list of Thanksgiving party ideas.

Spiced Cranberry Mold

Retro, red, and tasty. Make this throwback dish to brighten your table, spark conversation, and add a hint of nostalgia to your gathering! Check out the recipe on Southern Living!

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

The ultimate comfort food and classic Thanksgiving favorite—mashed potatoes! This recipe adds a little kick of garlic, a perfect savory side dish.

You’ll need:

  • 2 pounds of potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4-6 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup of milk or cream (you can adjust this to your preference for creaminess)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish

Peel, cut, and cook your potatoes. While your potatoes are cooking, prepare the garlic butter. Mince the garlic. Melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and saute until fragrant but not browned. Drain and mash your cooked potatoes. Add the garlic butter, milk, salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings.

Christmas Party Appetizers

We have some enticing starters to add to your ideas for Christmas gathering menus.

Baked Cranberry Brie

You’ll need:

  • 14-ounce can of Cranberry Sauce
  • Sugars (1-2 tablespoon brown and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar)
  • Orange for zest
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 wheel of brie
  • Fresh rosemary for garnish

One of the best things about making cranberry baked brie is you can use leftover cranberry sauce if you want to! You can also make your cranberry sauce or a canned version, as suggested here. Mix a can of cranberry sauce with the sugars, orange zest, vanilla, and spices. Place brie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and top with cranberry sauce. Bake in a 400° Fahrenheit oven for 7 – 10 minutes. Baking times may vary; you want the cranberry sauce to be warmed and the cheese softened.

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are a delicious, classic appetizer during the holiday season. Their small size and savory flavors perfectly contrast holiday sweet treats. Your guests will surely enjoy these gourmet treats, delighting your spread. Check out this simple stuffed mushroom recipe on Delish!

New Year’s Eve Party Time

Appetizers inspire mingling and add a relaxed note to even a dressy occasion. Whether you are having a black tie party, everyone is in sweats and tees, or somewhere in between. These NYE appetizers will surely please your guests and complement your New Year’s Eve dinner recipes and champagne toast!

Spinach Dip

There are many variations of spinach dip. Following the packet directions from the Knorr’s Vegetable Soup packet is always an option—and delicious! You might want to elevate your dip on NYE or at any holiday gathering by making this baked version!

You’ll need:

  • 10 ounces of thawed and drained frozen spinach
  • Mayonnaise
  • Sour Cream
  • Cream Cheese
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • Garlic (fresh minced or from a jar)
  • Mozzarella Cheese
  • Salt & Pepper

Mix 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup mayonnaise, and softened cream cheese in a large bowl. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic, spinach, ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, salt and pepper. Transfer to a baking dish, spreading evenly. Top with mozzarella cheese. Bake at 375° Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Serve with chips!

Bacon-Wrapped Dates

Bacon-wrapped dates are a delightful party treat, merging sweet, chewy dates with crisp, savory bacon. Their bite-sized nature makes them a fuss-free yet gourmet appetizer, enthralling guests with a burst of contrasting flavors in each nibble, embodying a perfect mingling indulgence. Check out how to make these perfect party bites here.

Sweet Treats

Classic Pumpkin Pie

The most famous classic pumpkin pie recipe has to be Libby’s! Following the recipe straight from the can using a homemade or pre-made crust gives you a delicious pumpkin pie everyone will love. Serve with whipped cream!

Peppermint Bark

You’ll need:

  • White chocolate – either baking chocolate or chocolate chips
  • Dark chocolate – either baking chocolate or chocolate chips
  • Peppermints crushed and/or broken into pieces

Melt 12 ounces of white chocolate. Spread it on parchment paper. Melt 12 ounces of dark chocolate. Swirl or spread it on top. Sprinkle with crushed peppermints and chill. After shilled, break into pieces to serve.

Rum Balls

You’ll need:

  • Vanilla wafers
  • powdered sugar
  • Cocoa powder
  • Rum

Mix two cups crushed vanilla wafters, 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, and ½ cup of rum. Form the mixture into balls and roll in your desired toppings! Chill for a couple of hours.

Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Chocolate crinkle cookies are a visual and flavorful hit with contrasting tender, fudgy centers, and crisp, powdered sugar crusts. Their bite-sized perfection adds a sweet, elegant touch to any party spread. Check out this easy chocolate crinkle cookie recipe from Pillsbury.

Cater Your Gathering

Elevate your holiday party or family celebration by entrusting your catering needs to professionals. Professional catering can customize menus for Christmas, New Year’s Eve dinner, or Thanksgiving dinner, letting you focus on Christmas party outfit ideas or Christmas gift ideas. Catering turns your Christmas party ideas, New Year’s Eve dinner ideas, and other festivities into delicious reality, making each event memorable.

KPacho

We hope you will consider KPacho for an array of catering and event solutions, perfect for any holiday parties or family celebrations. Our restaurant provides a warm setting if you are looking for a “New Year’s Eve dinner near me,” a “Thanksgiving dinner near me,” or a place to make your fun Christmas office party ideas come true. At KPacho, we are ready to help you fulfill your holiday party aspirations. Our excellent staff ensures your gatherings, whether a cozy Thanksgiving dinner or a vibrant New Year’s bash, are occasions to remember.

Top 15 Trending Corporate Holiday Party Dining Ideas

Top 15 Trending Corporate Holiday Party Dining Ideas

Planning your corporate holiday party and looking for the best dining options? Whether you need fun Christmas party ideas or delicious New Year’s dinner ideas, there’s something for everyone when it comes to corporate parties–if you know where to start looking!

But what are some of the latest and greatest dining options for your Thanksgiving, New Year’s, or Christmas office party? This article will outline the top 15 corporate holiday party food and dining ideas to guarantee your party menu is the best. Let’s dive in!

Ideas for Christmas

1. Holiday Appetizers

Successful holiday parties start with one thing: the appetizers. Choosing the right appetizers for your corporate Christmas party will start the celebration on the right foot and ensure your guests love every second of their time. If you want your Christmas party appetizers to stay in-theme, consider some of the following tasty bites:

  • Baked brie with cranberries
  • Roasted chestnuts
  • Pigs in a Blanket wreath
  • Spiced candied pecans
  • Warm, baked spinach dip

2. Christmas-Themed Drinks

If you’re seeking Christmas gift ideas for your employees or coworkers, why not surprise everybody with delicious Christmas-themed drinks? No celebration is complete without a comprehensive drink menu, and to celebrate the season, you can consider making or catering drinks like an eggnog cocktail, cranberry mimosas, pecan pie martinis, or mulled wine!

3. Grand Christmas Meals

Christmas is the perfect time to go all-out with your main meal. Celebrate your corporate holiday party by having a multi-course meal or a holiday buffet packed with Christmas staples–or get your delicious holiday meal catered by us.

4. Delicious Christmas Desserts

What corporate holiday gathering is complete without delicious themed desserts? Your office Christmas party is the perfect time to go all-out on sweet treats. You can add an extra element of fun to your celebration by having a gingerbread cookie decorating station for employees to come together and create their own delicious dessert!

5. Have Fun With Holiday-Themed Challenges

Beyond the food, you want your corporate holiday party to have plenty of fun activities for everyone to enjoy. Consider getting people involved by hosting some challenges during your party, such as an ugly Christmas sweater competition. This challenge will get employees brainstorming the best Christmas party outfit ideas, making for a fun and exciting competition when it comes time to vote for your favorite outfit at the party!

Ideas for New Year’s and New Year’s Eve

1. New Year’s Dinner Ideas

The focal point of a New Year’s Eve party is usually the dinner, drinks, and the countdown at midnight, of course! Having an extravagant New Year’s Eve dinner is the perfect way to make your office party memorable and enjoyable. Some of our favorite New Year’s Eve dinner ideas include:

  • A gourmet wine pairing dinner and tasting experience
  • Outdoor BBQs and bonfires
  • Around-the-world buffets (to make this idea extra fun, keep track of when the clock hits midnight in other countries and celebrate from across the globe by eating traditional foods from that country!)

Are you stuck searching for “New Year’s Eve Dinner near me”? Check out our holiday group dining menu.

2. Champagne and Tapas Tasting

No New Year’s party is complete without some champagne! Host a fun tasting experience with different types of champagne and pair the champagne with tasty tapas and small plates. Offer fun appetizers like charcuterie boards, banked brie wreaths, fondue bites, or shrimp cocktails!

Consider some of our favorite New Year’s Eve dinner recipes if you want to go beyond appetizers and offer a full meal!

3. Festive New Year’s Eve Desserts

One thing that comes to mind when we think of New Year’s Eve is the champagne. While you might assume it’s reserved for drinking, you can make your New Year’s celebration festive by having some champagne desserts! From cupcakes to trifles and cheesecakes, there’s no shortage of delicious bites you can make to celebrate this holiday season.

4. Fireworks and Outdoor Dinner Bash

Fireworks are one of the best New Year’s traditions, so why not make your holiday party special by having an outdoor dinner bash and watching the fireworks when New Year’s arrives? If your property has enough space, you can throw a fun outdoor party that brings you and your coworkers closer together.

5. Black Tie Buffets

The champagne, glitz, and glamor of New Year’s Eve is undeniable–so why not emphasize it with a fun black tie buffet? Bring your employees or coworkers together to enjoy a lavish buffet with the finest champagne and plenty of top-tier dishes to make the night one to remember!

Ideas for Thanksgiving

1. Traditional Thanksgiving Feast

Who doesn’t love celebrating Thanksgiving Day with a traditional feast? One of the best ways to celebrate the holiday is with a corporate Thanksgiving feast with all of the holiday classics, like the following:

  • Turkey
  • Mashed potatoes and gravy
  • Stuffing
  • Pumpkin pie
  • Cranberry sauce

Find yourself searching for “Thanksgiving dinner near me”? Consider our services for all of your Thanksgiving catering needs!

2. Pie Potluck

One of the best corporate Thanksgiving events is a classic pie potluck packed with the most delicious Thanksgiving desserts! Have your Thanksgiving dinner catered, and finish off your celebration by asking employees each to make their own take on classic Thanksgiving pies for an end-of-party tasting experience.

3. Harvest Buffet

You can step outside traditional Thanksgiving feasts by having a fun Thanksgiving harvest buffet packed with delicious recipes for Thanksgiving and autumn, like roasted vegetables, slow-roasted meats, seasonal desserts, hearty soups, and more! With something for everyone, employees will undoubtedly love the annual holiday party this year.

4. Harvest Picnic

Share the spirit of Thanksgiving by celebrating with a fun, corporate harvest picnic that employees and their families can enjoy this holiday season. Along with having employees make and bring their favorite seasonal dishes, you can complete the experience with plenty of blankets and seasonal decorations to make a comfortable and fun environment for everybody!

5. Pie and Coffee Social

One dessert comes to everyone’s mind when they think of Thanksgiving: pie! One of our favorite Thanksgiving party ideas is a pie and coffee social, packed with the best Thanksgiving sides and treats to complete the experience. This cozy celebration will bring everyone together for a fun and memorable time!

Get Catering for Your Corporate Holiday Party

Whether you’re looking for catering for family celebrations or a corporate event, you can meet your catering needs with Kpacho. We provide the best catering services out of the restaurants near you, guaranteeing that your holiday events will be as delicious as they are fun. Contact us today to order take-out, schedule catering for your holiday parties, or visit us in person!