One of my very favorite types of cuisine is Indian. The curries and spices are like none other. When I’m off to enjoy a meal at Tandoori’s, or whipping up a curry dish of my own at home, I’m oftentimes stuck on what type of cocktail or beer to match up with my meal. The lassi-based martini is always a respectable choice, but I find it’s too sweet and thick for something to enjoy before or during the meal… so what to do?

I almost literally fell upon this article on yumsugar.com today and, quite frankly, am really glad I did. The author had the opportunity to sit down with Dale Degroff, the man who, to many in the mixology world, is the reviver of classic cocktails.

According to Degroff, the East India Cocktail was the Cosmopolitan of its day, back in the 19th century. A popular cocktail that everyone enjoyed that pairs especially well with Indian food. It’s a recipe like none I’ve ever tried, so I’m truly looking forward to it.

East India Cocktail

Combine the first four ingredients into a cocktail shaker with ice and shake until well mixed. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass, dust with freshly grated nutmeg, and garnish by flaming the orange peel over the top of the drink.

Have another cocktail that pairs up nicely with Indian food? Tell us!

TAGS [ COCKTAILS | EAST INDIAN COCKTAIL | COCKTAIL RECIPE | DRINK RECIPES | INDIAN FOOD | INDIAN COCKTAILS ]

Ah, St. Patrick’s Day. It’s just 19 days away – do you know what you’ll be imbibing in? Many of the Irish-inspired St. Patty’s cocktails are quite heavy, touting a milk, cream or cream liqueur base. Those types of cocktails are fine by me in small quantities, but when I’m looking for something refreshing, I’m looking for a Leprechaun.

The Leprechaun is, quite simply, a whiskey tonic. Although this classic isn’t often thought of for St. Pat’s celebrations – I usually find people guzzling Guinness, some random green-tinted beer or as aforesaid, some creamy, minty delight. But when only a thirst-quenching cocktail will do, the Leprechaun is the perfect choice.

Leprechaun
2 oz Irish whiskey (I prefer Jameson)
Tonic water (Q Tonic is my fav)
Lemon twist, for garnish

Pour the Irish whiskey into a highball glass filled with ice. Top with tonic water. Garnish with a lemon twist. Enjoy and repeat.

Throwing a St. Patty’s bash? Check out all of our great St. Patrick’s party and Guinness gear.

TAGS [ LEPRECHAUN | COCKTAIL RECIPE | DRINK RECIPES | LEPRECHAUN RECIPE | ST PATRICK'S DAY ]