Today’s Tasty Pick: Asanda’s Unity Berry Sparkle

Happy Reconciliation Day, Fam!

It’s 16 December, 2025, and everyone’s celebrating in their own way.

Some are sipping cocktails, some are braaing, some are getting married, and some… are genuinely making peace with people they have been meaning to reach out to. Big respect for that last one!

Now, here’s the fun part: today, we are not cooking—we are drinking!

But here’s the twist: I, Asanda Mbayimbayi, am a non-alcoholic. I DON’T TOUCH alcohol.

So when I created Asanda’s Unity Berry Sparkle — named in honour of Reconciliation Day — I made sure it’s for everyone—both those who enjoy a tipple and those like me who prefer to skip the booze. Because let’s be real, no one should feel left out of a celebration, especially not on Reconciliation Day.

So whatever your vibe—cocktail in hand or sparkling water in a glass—this drink is for you. It’s delicious, festive, and made to bring us all together.

Love you, fam! Now sip, sparkle, and celebrate!

How to make Asanda’s Unity Berry Sparkle

Serves: 3–4

Ingredients:

Base:

• 1 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen – strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
• Juice of 1 orange
• Juice of ½ lemon
• A handful of mint leaves

For the sparkle:

• 1 cup sparkling water or soda water (non-alcoholic version)
• ½ cup tonic water or lemonade (optional for fizz)
• ½ cup sparkling rosé, white wine, or prosecco (for those who drink)

Garnish:

• Fresh berries or mint leaves
• Thin orange slices

Method:

1. Make the berry base: In a jug or blender, combine berries, honey/sugar, orange juice, lemon juice, and a few mint leaves. Lightly blend or muddle to release the flavours (don’t overblend; you want small fruit bits).
2. Strain or keep rustic: You can strain the mixture for a smooth texture — or keep it as is for a more natural, fruity look.
3. Divide & pour: Fill each glass halfway with the berry mixture.
4. Add the sparkle:
   Top up with your choice of:
   *Sparkling water (for the alcohol-free version)
   *Prosecco / sparkling wine / rosé (for the grown-up version)
5. Garnish beautifully: Add a few whole berries, a mint sprig, or an orange slice.

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