Hand Grenade
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Hand Grenade
Cocktail recipe

Rating

3.98 / 5
The Hand Grenade cocktail is a potent mix that combines the distinct flavors of aniseed liqueur and whiskey, often using Pernod and Southern Comfort respectively. This bold concoction is known for its sharp, herbaceous taste with a sweet, spicy undertone, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy intense flavor experiences. Served in a shot glass, the Hand Grenade is typically enjoyed in a single, swift gulp and is a common sight in nightclubs and bars where patrons look for a quick and strong drink experience. The cocktail's name itself suggests its powerful impact, reminiscent of an explosive burst of flavor.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Aniseed liqueur
Calories
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105 calories
Alcohol content
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40% | 1.2 units *

Shot glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

4/5

The Hand Grenade cocktail is a potent mixture that combines aniseed liqueur and whiskey, offering a spicy, herbaceous punch with a hint of sweetness. It's a robust drink that lives up to its name, providing a strong, flavor-packed experience with every sip.

Method
How to make a Hand Grenade

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
Fill a shot glass with half a part Pernod and half a part Southern Comfort, then serve

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FAQ's

Serving suggestions icon

What is the best way to serve the Hand Grenade cocktail?

The Hand Grenade cocktail should be served cold in a shot glass, as per the recipe details. It's not shaken or stirred but prepared directly in the shot glass it will be served in. Serving it cold enhances the flavors of the aniseed liqueur and whiskey, making it a bold choice for a quick, strong drink.

Ingredient specifics icon

Why is aniseed liqueur used in the Hand Grenade cocktail, and can it be substituted?

Aniseed liqueur is used in the Hand Grenade cocktail for its distinctive flavor, which adds a rich, licorice-like note when combined with whiskey. If you're not fond of aniseed flavor or it's unavailable, you might consider substituting it with another herbaceous liqueur such as absinthe or sambuca, although this will alter the drink's original taste profile.

Alcohol content comparison icon

How does the alcohol content of the Hand Grenade cocktail compare to other common cocktails?

The Hand Grenade cocktail has an alcohol content of 40%, which is quite high, especially considering it's served in a 30ml shot glass. This makes it stronger than many classic cocktails such as the Margarita or Mojito, which typically have a lower alcohol content. It's designed for quick consumption and should be enjoyed responsibly.

Occasion suitability icon

What occasions are best suited for serving the Hand Grenade cocktail?

Given its strong flavor and high alcohol content, the Hand Grenade cocktail is best suited for lively occasions such as parties, celebrations, or as a bold start to a night out. Its shot glass presentation and potency make it ideal for moments when you want a quick, invigorating drink.

Customization ideas icon

How can I customize the Hand Grenade cocktail to suit my taste?

To customize the Hand Grenade cocktail, consider adjusting the proportions of aniseed liqueur and whiskey based on your taste preference for sweetness or strength. You could also add a drop of bitters to add complexity or experiment with garnishing the rim of the shot glass with sugar or salt to modify the flavor contrast. Another idea is to layer the ingredients instead of mixing for a visual and tasting twist.

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