Spicy FiftyCocktail recipe
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Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
The Spicy Fifty offers a fantastic dance of flavors where the creamy vanilla vodka waltzes with the floral elegance of elderflower cordial, adding a plush sweetness to this sophisticated cocktail. The brisk lime juice and silky honey syrup introduce a refreshing harmony, enriching the complexity with honeyed tartness. Those cheeky slices of chili peppers don’t dominate the stage but provide a coy undercurrent of heat that sneaks in just as you're savoring the lingering sweetness—a delightful rendezvous for your palate!
Method
How to make a Spicy Fifty
- Vanilla vodka 50 ml (Stoli Vanilla preferred), Elderflower Cordial 15 ml, Lime juice 15 ml, Honey syrup 10 ml (Monin brand preferred), Chilli peppers 2 thin slices
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- Add all the ingredients into a shaker filled with ice
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- Shake vigorously and double strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with a red eye chili perched on the edge of the glass
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Find out more- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor. Bottled lime juices often contain preservatives that can affect the brightness of the cocktail. Fresh lime juice will impart a crisp, natural tartness that's essential for the Spicy Fifty.
- To enhance the vanilla notes, consider infusing the vodka with a vanilla bean for a few days ahead of preparation. This will create a more pronounced and rounded vanilla flavor in the cocktail, surpassing the basic vanilla vodka.
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FAQ's
What is the history behind the Spicy Fifty cocktail?
The Spicy Fifty is a captivating cocktail created by Salvatore Calabrese, who is celebrated as 'The Maestro' in the world of bartending. This signature drink was crafted as a tribute to Calabrese's former home, Fifty, a renowned venue located in London. The cocktail has since gained popularity for its masterful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, achieved through a blend of vanilla vodka, elderflower cordial, lime juice, honey syrup, and a hint of chili peppers. The creation of the Spicy Fifty reflects Calabrese's ingenuity and his ability to balance diverse flavors, which helped solidify his reputation as a leading figure in modern mixology.
What can I substitute if I don't have access to Vanilla vodka for the Spicy Fifty?
If you don't have vanilla vodka on hand, you can create a similar flavor profile by using plain vodka and infusing it with a bit of vanilla extract. Start with a high-quality vodka and add a small amount of pure vanilla extract, adjusting to taste until you achieve a satisfactory vanilla flavor. Another option is to use a homemade vanilla syrup or simply muddle a piece of vanilla bean directly into the cocktail shaker before mixing. This way, you can still capture that smooth and creamy vanilla essence that is crucial to the Spicy Fifty cocktail.
When is the best time to serve a Spicy Fifty cocktail?
The Spicy Fifty cocktail is an ideal choice for a wide range of occasions, but it particularly shines during the spring and summer months when fresh, vibrant flavors are most appreciated. Its refreshing blend of citrusy lime, sweet elderflower, and warming vanilla makes it perfect for outdoor gatherings, garden parties, and summer soirees. Additionally, the hint of chili peppers provides a subtle kick that can be especially invigorating in warmer weather. However, its unique flavor profile can also bring a touch of sophistication to any event year-round, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.
What types of food pair well with a Spicy Fifty cocktail?
The Spicy Fifty cocktail pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes due to its complex yet balanced flavor profile. Light and aromatic dishes such as Thai or Vietnamese cuisine can complement the sweet and spicy notes of the cocktail, enhancing the overall experience. Consider pairing it with fresh spring rolls, grilled seafood, or spicy shrimp to match the drink's combination of sweetness and heat. Additionally, desserts with citrus or fruity flavors, such as lemon tart or a berry compote, can make an excellent pairing, mirroring the elderflower, lime, and honey components of the Spicy Fifty.
What are the best techniques to prepare a Spicy Fifty cocktail?
To properly prepare a Spicy Fifty cocktail, it's essential to focus on the balance of flavors and the chilled temperature of the drink. Begin by adding all the ingredients—vanilla vodka, elderflower cordial, lime juice, honey syrup, and two thin slices of chili peppers—to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to ensure that the elements are well mixed and the cocktail is adequately chilled. Strain the mixture into a pre-chilled cocktail glass to maintain the cold temperature. This cocktail is shaken, not stirred, to fully integrate the tastes and aromatic components, delivering a refreshing, cohesive drinking experience with every sip.
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