5 Whisky Cocktails To Pair With Crispy Fried Chicken; Your Monsoon Party Needs Sorted
Monsoon weather often calls for something crispy-crunchy, making chicken fritters or crispy fried chicken an ideal choice. Crispy fried chicken may seem like a simple choice in terms of a recipe that’s easy to whip up, but its styles vary widely. It can be buttermilk-coated, beer-battered or besan-battered and spiced with regional Indian mixes. This variation means not every whisky cocktail will pair the same way.
A smoky whisky cocktail might go with a lighter recipe, while a citrus-forward one could brighten the flavours of a fried chicken with heavy seasoning. Choosing the right cocktail depends on the preparation, seasoning, and texture, ensuring the pairing improves, not competes with, the richness of the dish.
5 Whisky Cocktails To Pair With Crispy Fried Chicken For Monsoon Gathering
1. Whisky Sour Cocktail
The concoction blends the acidity of fresh citrus with the whisky base's mild sweetness. This balance cuts through the oily, crispy surface of fried chicken. Its acidity lifts the dish’s seasoning without masking the meat. The drink's smooth texture contrasts well with the crunchy texture, making it suitable for classic or spiced chicken preparations.
2. Whisky Highball Cocktail
The whisky highball, made with whisky and sparkling water, offers a clean, crisp, and mildly smoky profile. Its light body makes it suitable for heavier fried textures. The carbonation also lifts the oiliness of the chicken, while the subtle whisky notes complement the savoury elements. It is ideal for sauce-based crispy fried chicken or Korean fried chicken.
3. Old Fashioned Cocktail
The old fashioned combines whisky with bitters and a small amount of sugar, resulting in a spirit-forward, slightly aromatic cocktail. This pairing complements well-seasoned fried chicken, particularly varieties with pepper or herbal coatings. The drink’s profile allows it to match the richness of the food without masking it.
4. Rusty Nail Cocktail
The rusty nail mixes whisky with a herbal liqueur, producing a slightly sweet, spiced, and smooth cocktail. Its mellow texture pairs well with golden-fried chicken, especially those prepared with mild garlic seasoning. The drink’s underlying spice supports the savoury tones of the dish, while its weight matches the richness of the fried coating, creating a balanced combination.
5. Manhattan Cocktail
The Manhattan blends whisky with sweet vermouth and bitters, offering an aromatic drink with a slight herbal and fruity taste. This cocktail pairs effectively with richly seasoned fried chicken, especially versions with a thick crust or smoky spices. Its smooth texture and dry finish balance the fat in the dish, allowing the cocktail to stand up to the dish without hiding any flavours.
*Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
