Spice Up Your Bar With These Six Cumin-Infused Cocktails and Mocktails
Let's talk about cumin—a spice that's probably sitting in your kitchen right now, maybe feeling a bit left out of the cocktail party. Well, it's time to bring it into the mixology spotlight. Cumin's earthy, slightly peppery flavour isn't just for soups and stews. It's a surprisingly versatile player in the drink world as well. We have been whipping up some cumin-infused concoctions that are sure to add an exotic twist to your next happy hour.
The ‘Desert Mirage’ Margarita
Forget what you know about Margaritas and prepare for a desert-inspired twist. Rim your glass with a blend of salt and finely ground cumin for a subtle, smoky introduction. Shake together 45 ml Don Julio Respado, lime juice, a dash of orange liqueur and a splash of homemade cumin syrup (just simmer cumin seeds with sugar and water). When you strain this golden elixir into your glass, what you get is a Margarita that's familiar yet intriguingly different, like a mirage in a vast desert.
Smokey Mary
Who says Bloody Marys need to be predictable? Infuse 50 ml Smirnoff vodka with cumin seeds overnight for a smoky kick. Blend this with your favourite tomato juice, add a couple of dashes of Worcestershire sauce, a bit of lemon juice and don’t skimp on the hot sauce. This isn’t just a Bloody Mary, it's a Smokey Mary and it's ready to be the talk of your brunch.
Citrus Spice Mocktail
Who needs alcohol when you can have a mocktail that dances on your palate? Create a cumin syrup and mix it with freshly squeezed orange and lemon juice. Top with Gordon’s Tonic Water for a treat that is zesty and effervescent. Pour it over ice and garnish with a playful orange spiral. It's a drink that's refreshingly different and perfect for those who prefer their evenings alcohol-free but full of flavour.
Gin Whisperer
Looking for something fancy? Infuse 50 ml Tanqueray No. 10 gin with cumin seeds for a few hours, then mix it with lemon juice, a hint of cumin syrup and an egg white. This smooth, frothy and sophisticated sip is perfect for evenings when you want to impress a crowd.
Spiced Cumin Apple Fizz
In a tall glass, combine a drizzle of the cumin syrup with the juice of half a lemon for a tangy zing. Add 60 ml of fresh apple juice—choose a variety that's more on the tart side to balance the sweetness of the syrup. Stir these together, then fill the glass with ice. Top off the drink with sparkling water or Black and White Ginger Ale, giving it a gentle stir to integrate all the flavours.
The Ultimate Summer Cooler
Bring together cumin syrup, slices of cucumber, fresh mint and a generous squeeze of lime. Mix in 50 ml of Captain Morgan Dark Rum and let the mixture get acquainted. Serve this over ice, topped with soda water or Johnnie Walker Refreshing Mixer—and you've got a cooler that’s not just refreshing; it's got layers. It's like your regular summer drink decided to dress up as a party starter.
