Master These Popular Dark Rum Cocktails
There’s a reason why dark rum is a favourite in the Caribbean, Latin America, Australia and India. It can be enjoyed straight-up, and also imparts a smooth and spicy hint to cocktails. Dark rum cocktails typically have a number of familiar associations — think beaches and umbrella straws — and for good reason. The good news is, one doesn’t necessarily have to be at an exotic location to enjoy these cocktails. Your taste buds are surely in for an adventure to remember as you sip these drinks!
Rum Punch
One of the Caribbean's signature drinks, this recipe has all the ingredients to get the party started. Today we learned: Punch is a loanword from Hindi’s ‘panch’. It refers to the fact that this classic crowd-pleaser includes five elements: spirit, citrus, sugar, spice and water. Over time, the ratios and components changed to suit individual preferences. One tip: be generous with the ice since dilution is what makes a balanced drink.
In a bowl, combine orange, pineapple and lime juices, and a mix of white and dark rum (we recommend Captain Morgan). To serve your guests, fill 3/4th of each glass with ice and pour in the punch. Garnish with an orange wedge and maraschino cherry.
The Rum Old Fashioned
For fans of the ’60s, this drink is a trip down memory lane. To this day, it is among the most popular drinks served at jazz bars right before a set — a fitting ambience for a comforting choice. Blend orange peels, sugar, bitters and 30-45 ml of dark rum to make this concoction. For best results, acquire a turntable and listen to classic ’60s jazz, although contemporary jazz works just as well!
The Zombie
This dark rum cocktail is best known for its exotic notes. The recipe requires a blender, in which to combine dark rum, apricot brandy, lime juice, grenadine, a splash of bitters, and plenty of ice. Blend until you have a thick slushie-like drink. Pour into a tall glass and top with a pineapple slice. There you go — a Hawaiian getaway wherever and whenever you might need one!
The Cuba Libre
The Cuba Libre captures the very essence of celebration, and what an easy drink to make at that. And you need is dark rum, your preferred cola (although do not pick cherry, trust us on this: it *will* ruin the recipe), a splash of lime, and a lemon wedge to a highball glass. Don’t forget to add a generous measure of ice to this. A step ahead of your regular old Rum and Coke, this Cuban classic cocktail is guaranteed to hit the spot.
Hot Buttered Rum
Now that winter is coming (we are looking at you, Game of Thrones fans), this is just the cocktail you need to feel snug and warm. The recipe requires a bit of work, but it’s worth the effort. Dissolve a bit of brown sugar in hot water. In a separate bowl, add a little butter, ground cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg, and stir until combined. Add about 30-45 ml of dark rum and stir again. Once it looks like it has come together, add the hot water and sugar. Pour into a mug. If you’re feeling indulgent, drop a cinnamon stick into it, and enjoy the drink as you watch the sun set.
There are some other great dark rum recipes that deserve a special mention. If you enjoy a more tangy flavour, Rum Sour should be your go-to. The Black Russian is another iconic drink, especially for coffee lovers, owing to its generous measure of coffee liqueur. But remember, whichever dark rum cocktail you’re trying, enjoy in moderation!
