Photo Credit - istockphoto/lilechka75
Do you want a craft cocktail, but you don’t want to experience the same old scene with a bartender decked out in skinny jeans and a mustache? Now more than ever before, you can take what was once limited to a dimly lit mixology bar to the comfort of your own home thanks to the powers of the world wide web, and the gaining popularity of the craft cocktail culture. You can even take it a step farther and enjoy well-crafted elevated cocktails in any style of cuisine or culture scene your “food” heart desires! In this day and age, the average “foodie” is not only more informed, but also more adventurous in their home kitchens, and you can be too.
Though the concept of this article can be applied to any type of culture’s cuisine and cocktails, I find there are endless exotic and interesting “Asian” foods and flavors that can really elevate your cocktail and introduce your palate to something new and unique. A really great way to get a little more comfortable with new ingredients from that region is to start with a classic cocktail recipe, and doll it up with additional Asian ingredients. You can find most of the ingredients at any specialty market or Asian store. What may help get you started on your journey is the list I have below on some flavor profiles that are indigenous to Asia that translate well in syrups and infusions.
Recommended Spices:
nutmeg, fennel seed, turmeric, coriander, sesame, curry, Chinese five spice, and star anise, Cinnamon, bird’s eye chili, wasabi, and dried red chili peppers.
Recommended Herbs: lemongrass, ginger, Thai basil, Kaffir lime leaves, Vietnamese balm, Curry leaves.
