The Best Cocktails to Make with India’s Local Spirits
India is a country rich in cultural diversity and tradition, and its local spirits are no exception. From the robust flavors of rum to the smoothness of whiskey, there's a variety of options when it comes to crafting delicious cocktails using Indian spirits. Here are some of the best cocktails you can whip up using India’s local favorites.
1. Indian Whiskey Sour
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Indian whiskey (such as Amrut or Paul John)
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Ice
- Lemon twist for garnish
Instructions:
Shake the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice in a cocktail shaker. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lemon twist for an aromatic finish.
2. Masala Mojito
Ingredients:
- 2 oz local white rum (like Magic Moments)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 10-12 fresh mint leaves
- 1 oz sugar syrup
- 1/2 tsp chaat masala
- Soda water
- Ice
- Mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
Muddle the mint leaves with lime juice and sugar syrup in a glass. Add the rum, chaat masala, and ice, then top with soda water. Stir gently and garnish with a mint sprig.
3. Toddy Punch
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Indian coconut arrack (or palm wine)
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- 1 oz honey syrup
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- Ice
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
In a shaker, combine the coconut arrack, orange juice, honey syrup, and lime juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with an orange slice for a vibrant touch.
4. Bengali Gin and Tonic
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Indian gin (like Greater Than or Gin Gin)
- 4 oz tonic water
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon or lime juice
- 1/2 tsp freshly grated ginger
- Ice
- Ginger slice and lemon wheel for garnish
Instructions:
Fill a glass with ice. Pour in the gin, lemon juice, and top with tonic water. Add grated ginger, stir gently, and garnish with a ginger slice and lemon wheel.
5. Indian Spiced Rum Punch
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Indian spiced rum (such as Captain Morgan or a local variant)
- 4 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz grenadine
- Ice
- Pineapple wedge for garnish
Instructions:
Combine spiced rum, pineapple juice, and lime juice in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Slowly pour grenadine to create a layered effect and garnish with a pineapple wedge.
These cocktails not only highlight the unique flavors of India’s local spirits but also provide a refreshing twist that showcases the diversity of Indian beverages. Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a festive gathering, these drinks are perfect for any occasion. Cheers to exploring new tastes and traditions!