How to Make the Most Popular Cocktails Around the World
Are you looking for a way to impress your guests this summer without leaving the comfort of your home? Try serving these cocktails around the world!
Transform your living room into a modern lounge and take your taste buds on an adventure with drinks from the South Pacific, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom, and Europe. The possibilities are endless, from classic flavors like the Bramble to new creations like the Painkiller.
Whether winding down after a long day or celebrating a special occasion, bring the bar to you and wow your friends and family with a global selection of cocktails. So grab your shaker, and let’s get mixing!
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What Makes a Cocktail International?
Have you ever wondered why some cocktails feel like a cultural passport? International cocktails aren’t just about their flavorsโtheyโre steeped in their homeland’s traditions, ingredients, and history. Here’s what makes these beverages global icons.
The Role of Local Ingredients
What truly defines an international cocktail? It often begins and ends with local ingredients. The best cocktails from around the world rely on whatโs fresh and available in their region.
For example:
- Fresh mintย plays a starring role in Cubaโs Mojito, reflecting the islandโs lush tropical greenery.
- In Puerto Rico,ย pineapple juiceย andย coconut creamย combine for the Piรฑa Colada, showcasing the tropical fruits abundant in the region.
- Brazilโs Caipirinha calls forย fresh lime juiceย and sugarcane-derived cachaรงa, which practically scream “South America.”
Local ingredients define a drink’s flavor profile and connect it to its cultural roots. When you sip a highball glass of Pimmโs Cup packed with cucumber and orange slices on a summer day in England, itโs like tasting the British garden parties of decades past.
Think about the cocktails you loveโdo they transport you somewhere? Authentic drinks are built on fresh ingredients that channel a regionโs soul, from Mexican Palomas’sย grapefruit juiceย to Moscow Mules’s fieryย ginger beer.
History Behind the Recipes
Behind every international cocktail lies a tale. Many of the most popular cocktails trace their origin to pivotal moments, visionary bartenders, or even sheer accidents.
- Mai Taiย (Hawaii): Created by Victor J. Bergeron in the 1940s, this fruity cocktail captures the essence of Polynesian-inspired tiki culture. Made with dark rum, orange curaรงao, and orgeat, it celebrates tropical island life.
- Mojitoย (Cuba): Stemming from the 16th century when Cuban locals mixed lime, sugar, and mint to mask harsh rum, the Mojito was later refined and celebrated by none other than Ernest Hemingway at La Bodeguita del Medio in Havana.
- Aperol Spritzย (Italy): This drink is purely Italian charm in a glass, combining prosecco, Aperol, and soda water for a light, fizzy cocktail thatโs become a global symbol of aperitivo culture.
International cocktails carry stories of trade routes, cultural exchanges, and even rebellions against Prohibition. Theyโre snapshots in time. For instance, the Pisco Sour emerged as Peruโs signature cocktail in the early 1900s, leveraging the Spanish colonies’ love for distilled grape spirits and native citrus.
Each cocktail you mix at home can be a tribute to its inventive origin. Itโs like taking a sip of history, one thatโs intertwined with local traditions and bold personalities. So whether you’re garnishing with a lemon peel or stirring up a signature cocktail, understand the history youโre pouring into your glass.
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Caribbean: Piรฑa Colada
Few drinks scream tropical paradise louder than the Piรฑa Colada, Puerto Ricoโs famed fruity cocktail. Invented at the Caribe Hilton in San Juan, this indulgent blend of pineapple juice, coconut cream, and white rum is a vacation in a glass. Often served in a tall glass with fresh fruit garnish, it shows how simple, local ingredients can create a universally loved, delicious drink.
Caribbean: Painkiller Run Cocktail
The Painkiller originated at the Soggy Dollar Bar, Jost Van Dyke, BVI, White Bay. This rum cocktail is one of the most famous drinks in the Virgin Islands, both USVI and BVI.
- 2 ounces of Pusserโs Rum (To be faithful to the Caribbean flavors, use Pusserโs Rum or Cruzan Rum)
- 4 ounces of Pineapple Juice
- 1 ounce of Cream of Coconut
- 1 ounce of Orange Juice
- Mix all the above ingredients in a cocktail shaker.
- Add ice and shake.
- Pour over a cocktail glass with ice.
- Sprinkle ground Nutmeg (or grated fresh Nutmeg) on top.
- Garnish with a slice of fresh Pineapple.
- Cheers!
Caribbean: Lime in da Coconut Cocktail
This refreshing cocktail can be found throughout the Virgin Islands. It is a favorite concoction that is light and tasty on a hot day.
- 3 ounces of Cruzan coconut-flavored Rum
- 1 ounce of Cruzan Dark Rum
- 2 ounces of Lime Juice, fresh is best
- ยฝ lime with its rind
- 4 ounces of Cream of Coconut
- 4 ounces of ice cubes
- Splash of Soda
- Lime slice for garnish
- Place the rum, lime juice, cream of coconut, and ice in a blender.
- Blend until the ice is blended/crushed.
- Garnish with a slice of lime, and enjoy this refreshing cocktail!
Caribbean: Bushwacker Cocktail
This tasty coffee-blended drink was invented in 1975 in St. Thomas, USVI. It has become a favorite drink of tropical beach resorts. People often refer to it as tasting like a milkshake with alcohol. People say that a Bushwacker is a milkshake with alcohol.
- 1 ounce of Coffee Liqueur
- 1 ounce of Cruzan Coconut Rum
- 1 ounce of Irish Cream Liqueur
- 1 ounce of Cruzan Dark Rum
- 1 ounce of Cruzan Light Rum
- 2 ounces of Cream of Coconut
- Ground Nutmeg or shaved chocolate
- 4 ounces of ice
- Fill the Blender with ice. Pour the coffee liqueur, coconut rum, Irish cream liqueur, dark rum, light rum, and the cream of coconut.
- Blend until creamy like a milkshake.
- Garnish with ground nutmeg, and enjoy this creamy cocktail!
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North America: Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary originated in New York City during the 1920s or โ30s. This brunch staple combines tomato juice, vodka, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and plenty of spice.
Over time, variations like the “Bloody Maria” (with tequila) emerged, but the essence of this drink remains robust and savory. Served in a highball glass, itโs perfect for mornings seeking bold flavors.
North America: Monkeypod Kitchen Mai Tai
The Mai Tai, meanwhile, represents tropical bliss and Polynesian tiki culture. Created in the 1940s by Trader Vic in California, this drink blends dark rum, orgeat, lime juice, and orange curaรงao. Despite its Hawaiian association, the Mai Taiโs real magic lies in its ability to transport you to any sunny beachside, wherever you are.
Monkeypod’s Mai Tai is well known. I think it’s one of the best Mai Tais on Maui. This recipe is complicated but worth it! You will need a NO2 infuser for the honey lilikoi foam, which makes this recipe unique.
- 1 ounce Light Rum
- 1 ounce Dark Rum
- .5 ounce macadamia nut orgeat **
- .5 ounce orange curacao
- .75 ounce fresh lime juice
- Honey Lilikoi Foam *
- Pineapple garnish
- Add lime juice, orgeat**, curacao, and light rum to a mixing glass. Shake with a half cup of ice until well blended.
- Pour into a highball glass.
- Float dark rum
- Top with the Honey Lilikoi Foam * and a slice of pineapple
Honey Lilikoi Foam*
- 1 ounce lilikoi puree
- 1 ounce simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- 1.5 ounces of water
- .5 ounce honey
Mix foam ingredients and add to a NO2 infuser at half capacity. Use four charges. If you don’t have a NO2 infuser, you can blend the ingredients quickly until foam is created.
Macadamia Nut Orgeat**
- 2 cups of macadamia nuts
- 1.5 cups of raw sugar
- 1.25 cups of water
- .5 ounces orange flower water
Finely grind the macadamia nuts in a food processor. In a saucepan, combine water and sugar, then bring to a boil. Stir frequently, making sure that the sugar dissolves. Simmer for 3-4 minutes on reduced heat. Add macadamia nuts and bring to a boil. Turn off the heat and let sit for 8 hours. In a small jar, strain the mixture and store it in the refrigerator until used.
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Latin America: Caipirinha and Pisco Sour
The Caipirinha is Brazil’s national cocktail, a simple yet flavorful mix of fresh lime juice, sugar, and cachaรงaโa liquor made from sugarcane. Its roots trace back to Sรฃo Pauloโs sugarcane heartlands, where harvesting and distilling techniques have been perfected over centuries. This refreshing, citrusy cocktail captures the spirit of Brazilโs warm, tropical days. Traditionally served in a highball glass, the Caipirinha is both a drink and a cultural experience.
Across the border, Peru celebrates its Pisco Sour, a signature cocktail made with pisco (a grape-based brandy), fresh lime juice, simple syrup, egg white, and a dash of Angostura bitters. Created in the early 1900s in Lima, itโs a point of national pride, offering a unique combination of creamy texture and tangy flavor. The Pisco Sour occupies a special place alongside Peru’s rich culinary heritage.
United Kingdom: Pimm’s Cup
Brits have enjoyed Pimm’s Cup for over a century. It was created in the 1880s by an Oyster Bar owner named James Pimm. Originally believed to aid digestion, this refreshing drink has become a favorite at Wimbledon (and other English summer sporting events) and is considered a classic British cocktail.
So, what’s in a Pimm’s cocktail, you ask? Well, it starts with a herb and gin-based premade cocktail. And to make it even more delightful, ginger ale, lemon juice, and a bunch of fruit are added. The result? A truly refreshing and tasty drink.
But here’s a caution: Pimm’s can be pretty sneaky. It goes down quickly, and with all the fruit floating around, it’s easy to forget that there’s alcohol involved! So, sip responsibly.
If you plan a summer gathering, consider serving Pimm’s in a pitcher, just like Sangria. It’s a fantastic choice for a refreshing group cocktail that will surely be a hit with your friends and family. It’s the perfect way to cool down and relax on a warm summer day. Cheers!
- 2 ounces Pimm’s No. 1
- 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Top with Ginger Ale *
- Garnish with cucumber, mint sprig, strawberries, lemon, and orange slices.
- Pour Pimm’s No. 1 and lemon juice over ice in a highball glass.
- Add ginger ale to the top and stir it.
- Garnish with fruits
*Ginger Ale can be substituted with Lemon Lime Soda or Ginger Beer if that is what you have on hand.
United Kingdom: Classic Gin and Tonic
Did you know that the famous Gin and Tonic cocktail was created in the 19th Century as a way to fight against malaria? It’s true! Nowadays, this classic drink has become a go-to choice for summer sipping.
When you order one in London, you’ll typically be handed a glass with ice and gin, and then you can add as much tonic as you prefer. It’s perfect for enjoying a refreshing after-dinner drink or sipping with friends on a warm evening. And to truly enhance the flavor, opt for a high-quality gin like Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire. Cheers to a timeless cocktail!
- 2 ounces of Gin
- 4 ounces of Tonic
- Fill a highball glass with Gin
- Top with Tonic and stir gently
- Garnish with lime slice
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Europe: Aperol Spritz and Irish Coffee
The Aperol Spritz is quintessentially Italian, born of Italyโs love for leisurely aperitivos. Combining Aperol, prosecco, and soda water, itโs a light and refreshing cocktail designed for hot days. Often served in a tall glass, it captures the relaxed charm of summers in Venice.
On the other hand, Irish Coffee was invented in Foynes, Ireland, during the early 1900s to warm up chilly travelers. A unique mix of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and a cream topping, this comforting classic invites you to sip and savor Irelandโs rich warmth on a cold evening.
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Asia: Singapore Sling
The iconic Singapore Sling was crafted in the early 1910s by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon at the renowned Raffles Hotel. This sweet and fruity concoction includes gin, cherry liqueur, Benedictine, Cointreau, and pineapple juice. Shaken to perfection, it set the standard for cocktail-making in Asia. Its striking pink hue is as unique as the city it hails from, blending tradition with a modern twist.
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Tips to Perfect Your Home Bar for Global Cocktails
To recreate the magic of cocktails from around the world, your home bar needs to be prepped and ready. Whether shaking up a Pisco Sour or stirring a Negroni, having the right tools and ingredients on hand ensures your cocktails come out just rightโwhether hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night. Here’s how to set things up for success.
Essential Tools
Every great cocktail begins with the right tools. Like a chef needs their knives, a home bartender thrives on their barware. Here’s what you need:
- Cocktail Shaker: A must-have for shaken drinks like a Singapore Sling or Piรฑa Colada. Go for a Boston shaker if you want something easy to use and versatile.
- Jigger: Precision is key, especially for classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned. A jigger ensures accurate measurements.
- Muddler: Essential for smashing fresh mint in your Mojito or muddling sugar cubes in a Caipirinha.
- Mixing Glass: Perfect for stirring cocktails like a Manhattan or Martini that require a smooth blend rather than a vigorous shake.
- Bar Spoon: Not just for mixing; it’s excellent for layering drinks or scooping garnishes.
- Strainer: A Hawthorne strainer is a good starting point for catching ice and fruit bits while pouring.
- Ice Cube Mold: Keep your drinks cold with large, slow-melting cubes that won’t water down your cocktail.
- Highball Glass: A staple for long drinks like a Paloma or Tom Collins.
Having these essentials is like having the starter kit for a perfect home bar. Theyโre versatile enough to handle almost any drink recipe.
Stocking Your Ingredients
Global cocktails often call for a variety of unique, high-quality ingredients. Stocking your bar thoughtfully can take your drinks from good to unforgettable. Hereโs how to get started:
- Focus on Fresh: Use ingredients like fresh lime juice and grapefruit juice. Premixed alternatives donโt cut it when creating refreshing cocktails like a Margarita or a Paloma.
- Explore Key Spirits: Stock essentials like white rum, dark rum, vodka, gin, and tequila. These are the backbone of many international favorites.
- Keep Vermouth Handy: A small bottle of dry or sweet vermouth is crucial for classic cocktails like a Negroni or Manhattan. Remember to refrigerate it once opened.
- Add Bitters and Syrups: Angostura bitters, simple syrup, and unique syrups (like orgeat for Mai Tais) add depth to many recipes.
- Donโt Forget Mixers: Club soda, soda water, and fruit juices like pineapple or tomato juice are non-negotiable.
- Experiment: Try regional liquors like Campari, Pimmโs No. 1, or even cachaรงa for Brazilian cocktails.
Don’t be afraid to visit international stores or browse online when sourcing ingredients. Specialty retailers often carry harder-to-find items like a cherry liqueur or orange curaรงao, perfect for drinks like a Singapore Sling.
Garnishing Like a Pro
If you’ve admired a beautifully garnished drink at a bar, you know presentation can elevate the entire experience. Here are some tips to garnish your cocktails like a professional:
- Use Fresh Fruit: A slice of orange, a lime wedge, or a fresh lemon peel twist adds freshness and color. For example, a Pimmโs Cup isnโt complete without an orange slice and cucumber.
- Think Texture: Garnishes like maraschino cherries, mint sprigs, or candied ginger can bring a tactile element to your drinks.
- Get Creative: Use a vegetable peeler to create elegant curls of citrus peel, or try dehydrated fruit slices for a modern twist.
- Match the Drink: Garnishes should complement the flavors of the cocktail. For example, a grapefruit wedge pairs perfectly with a Paloma, while a sprig of rosemary enhances the earthiness of a Gin and Tonic.
A thoughtfully garnished cocktail doesnโt just look beautiful; it tells a story about the drink and its origins. Plus, it’s a fun way to share your creativity with guests!
How to Pair Cocktails with Occasions
Pairing cocktails with occasions is all about setting the right mood. Whether hosting a formal dinner or a casual brunch, the right drink adds character to the experience. Some cocktails light up a celebration, while others bring comfort during quiet evenings. Itโs not just about whatโs in the glassโitโs about matching the vibes of the moment.
Celebratory Events: Toasts and Good Times
Big celebrations call for cocktails that sparkle with energy and festivity. Think about weddings, birthdays, or New Yearโs partiesโthese moments deserve drinks that feel like a toast to life.
- Champagne Cocktails:ย Add a splash of orange liqueur or a sugar cube with bitters to your bubbly. Itโs classy, easy, and always a hit. Fits right in at weddings or milestone celebrations.
- Aperol Spritz:ย Light, fizzy, and perfect for summer months. Its vibrant orange tone is visually festive, making it ideal for outdoor parties.
- Rum Swizzle:ย Hailing from Bermuda, this tropical mix of dark rum, lime juice, and bitters is excellent for festive gatherings, especially beach-themed celebrations.
Cozy Nights In: Relaxation with a Drink in Hand
Some evenings are about unwinding; your cocktail should match the pace. Whether itโs a solo movie night or a quiet gathering with a couple of friends, comforting drinks work best.
- Irish Coffee:ย Hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and cream. This popular drink adds warmth to a chilly evening.
- Hot Toddy:ย Combines whiskey, honey, and a lemon wedge with warm waterโperfect for cozying up on a cold night.
- Red Wine Sangria:ย For a fruity cocktail with red wine and fresh fruit slices, it’s a relaxed drink that feels like a treat.
Casual Gatherings: Easygoing Drinks for Connection
Inviting friends over for a casual hangout? Refreshing cocktails make it easy to sip and chat without a fuss. The key is to keep things fun and accessible.
- Moscow Mule:ย Served in its signature copper mug with ginger beer, vodka, and lime juiceโitโs simple yet cheerful.
- Paloma:ย Mexicoโs beauty in a glass with grapefruit soda, fresh lime juice, and tequila. This refreshing cocktail feels laid-back and approachable.
- Pimmโs Cup:ย Packed with cucumber slices, oranges, and mint, this British favorite is perfect for everything from barbecues to picnics.
Big Dinners: Complimenting Decadent Meals
Dinner events center on the food, but the right drink elevates the dining experience. A cocktail designed to pair with your menu can create unforgettable moments.
- Old Fashioned:ย A bold choice, this bourbon-based classic cocktail stands up to red meat or hearty dishes.
- Negroni:ย With its mix of gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari, this Italian legend pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or charcuterie boards.
- Bloody Mary:ย While itโs a brunch staple, its robust flavors also work well with savory appetizers like sliders or smoked salmon.
Seasonal Themes: Embracing the Time of Year
Occasions often follow the seasons, and matching your cocktails to the time of year is wise. Winter? Go warm and rich. Summer? Keep it light and zippy.
- Piรฑa Colada in Summer Months:ย A Puerto Rican classic with pineapple juice, coconut cream, and white rum. Nothing says sunny vibes like this fruity cocktail.
- Espresso Martini for Fall:ย A mix of coffee and vodka that bridges the line between cozy and awake.
- Dark Rum Hot Buttered Rum for Winter:ย Rich and creamy, this is best enjoyed in front of a fireplace during frosty nights.
Themed Parties: Creative Pairings to Fit the Vibe
Theme nights or costume parties allow you to play with your cocktail pairings. Choose drinks that enhance the atmosphere and match the decor.
- Tiki Party with a Mai Tai:ย This tropical mix of dark rum, lime juice, and orgeat syrup will transport your guests to Hawaii.
- 1920s Speakeasy Night with French 75:ย Champagne, gin, and lemon juice define this Prohibition-era cocktailโchic and timeless.
- Holiday Celebrations with Eggnog Cocktails:ย Creamy, spiced, and festive, make any holiday gathering merrier.
Letting the occasion inspire your drink menu can turn something ordinary into an unforgettable experience. Whether clinking glasses at a sunset wedding or sipping on an Irish Coffee by the fire, the perfect drink amplifies the mood.
Final Thoughts on Cocktails Around the World
International cocktails are more than recipes; theyโre a chance to bring the world into your glass. Every sip connects you to a culture and a story, from the tang of fresh lime juice in a Caipirinha to the bold spice of a Bloody Mary.
Experiment with the techniques and ingredients shared here to recreate those vacation vibes at home. Stock up on your spirits, perfect your garnishes, and let your cocktail shaker take center stage. The best cocktails remind you of your favorite placesโor inspire you to dream of new ones.
What cocktail will you make next? Grab your highball glass and start mixingโyour passport to delicious drinks and global memories. Cheers!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cocktails from Around the World
Cocktail culture is a blend of history, creativity, and technique. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just exploring the world of cocktails, there are always questions about ingredients, preparation methods, and traditions. Here, we’ll tackle some of the most common questions about cocktails from around the world.
The debate between shaking and stirring isnโt just about styleโit affects the drink’s flavor and texture.
Shaking a cocktail (like a Daiquiri or Singapore Sling) aggressively mixes ingredients and dilutes alcohol, creating a frothy and cold blend.
Stirring (commonly used for Manhattans or Negronis) offers a gentler mix, maintaining clarity and a silkier texture. Need a quick rule? Shake cocktails with fruit juices, cream, or egg whites; stir clear cocktails.
Garnishes do more than make your cocktail Instagram-worthy. They enhance aroma, flavor, and presentation.
For example, a lime wedge on a Moscow Mule adds zest and fragrance, while a sprig of fresh mint in a Mojito boosts its refreshing appeal.
The next time you sip on a Pimmโs Cup, consider how the cucumber slice ties it all togetherโyouโll thank us later!
Ever wonder why a whiskey sour lands in a rocks glass or a Martini in a martini glass? Glassware isnโt chosen just for aestheticsโit optimizes the drink.
A tall glass like a highball helps retain fizz in carbonated drinks like a Paloma or Rum Swizzle.
A coupe glass? Itโs all about showcasing elegance while keeping the drink chilly. Using the proper glass transforms your delicious drink into an experience.
Classic cocktails are timeless recipes that have stood the test of time. Think 19th-century staples like the Old Fashioned or the Manhattan.
These popular drinks were initially crafted with simple spirits, sweeteners (like simple syrup), and bitters, served with minimal garnish.
The term โclassic cocktailโ applies to creations with historical roots, distinct recipes, and enduring appeal around the world.
Yes! Regional ingredients define the unique flavors of global cocktails. Brazilโs national cocktail, the Caipirinha, uses cachaรงa and fresh lime juice.
In Puerto Ricoโs Piรฑa Colada, youโll find local pineapple juice and coconut cream.
The Sazerac from New Orleans highlights rye whiskey, while the Aperol Spritz sparkles with Italyโs prosecco.
Using local ingredients ties the drink to its roots, making every sip a toast to its homeland.
Want your cocktail to taste flawless? Balancing sweet, sour, bitter, and strong flavors is key. For instance:
Sweet: Use syrups, triple sec, or fruit juices like orange and cranberry juice.
Sour: Fresh citrus juices like lime or lemon juice bring acidity.
Bitter: This often comes from bitters, like the dash of Angostura in a Pisco Sour.
Strong: Your spirit of choiceโvodka, rum, gin, or whiskeyโanchors the drink.
The perfect drink hits all the right notes. Experiment by tasting as you go, just like y
Cocktails are wrapped in fascinating stories. The Bloody Mary emerged in New York City and was invented to combine vodka with tomato juice for brunch lovers.
The Mai Tai, despite its Hawaiian vibe, was first created in San Francisco by Trader Vic. Puerto Ricoโs legendary Piรฑa Colada, crafted in San Juanโs Caribe Hilton, became a global icon of tropical cocktails.
Knowing the origins of these magical drinks allows you to sip on history.
Egg whites in drinks like the Pisco Sour create a velvety froth and luxurious texture. It doesnโt add flavorโits job is purely textural. The technique? Dry shaking (shaking without ice) before adding ice ensures the creamy foam we all love. Itโs worth a shot if youโre after a silky sip.
Yes! Many cocktails are naturally gluten-free, especially those made from distilled spirits like vodka (gluten-free brands) and tequila.
Mixers like club soda and fresh fruit juices keep your drink safe for those avoiding gluten. However, be cautious with certain flavored liqueurs or pre-made mixers, as they can contain hidden gluten.
Never underestimate good equipment! Hereโs your checklist:
Cocktail shaker: Mix refreshing cocktails like a Piรฑa Colada or Singapore Sling.
Muddler: Crush fresh mint and citrus for cocktails like the Mojito.
Jigger: Measure precise amounts to nail recipes like the Mai Tai.
Strainer: Keep garnishes and ice cubes out of your glass. Making authentic cocktails from around the world without these tools could get tricky!