Roman HolidayCocktail recipe
Rating
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The Roman Holiday cocktail draws inspiration from recipe crafted by Nandini Khaund at Cindy’s Rooftop in the historic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, located in Chicago, USA. This drink offers a fascinating fusion of bitter, tropical, and subtly sweet flavors.
The herbal richness of amaro and the bold character of Campari are softened by fresh pineapple and lime juices, while a hint of coffee adds depth and complexity. A touch of dark sugar rounds out the profile, and the cinnamon stick garnish enhances the drink's warm, aromatic qualities.
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Tags
Lowball / rocks glass
Ingredients
Cocktail Colin says:
The Roman Holiday cocktail is a bold symphony of flavors where the herbal notes of amaro and punchy bitterness of Campari tango playfully with bright pineapple and lime juices. A whisper of coffee adds a bittersweet depth that lingers gently, beautifully rounded off by a subtle sweetness from the sugar, creating a sophisticated balance that's both intriguing and refreshing.
Method
How to make a Roman Holiday
- Campari 7.5 ml, Amaro 30 ml, Pineapple Juice 22.5 ml, Lime juice 22.5 ml, Coffee 30 ml, Sugar 5 ml (Demerara or dark sugar)
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- Combine amaro, Campari, coffee, pineapple juice, lime juice, and dark sugar in a shaker with ice
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- Shake vigorously until well-chilled, then strain into a lowball glass
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- Garnish with a cinnamon stick
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Find out more- To enhance the aromatic profile of the Roman Holiday, lightly toast the cinnamon stick used for garnish before adding it to the drink. This releases more fragrant oils, which elevate the cocktail’s aromatic experience.
- Use cold brew coffee instead of regular coffee for a smoother, richer texture and to provide a slightly sweeter undertone without additional sugar. Its less acidic profile pairs excellently with the citrus elements of the cocktail.
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FAQ's
What is the origin of the Roman Holiday cocktail?
The Roman Holiday cocktail is a delightful creation that hails from Cindy’s Rooftop, a celebrated spot located within the historic Chicago Athletic Association Hotel in Chicago, USA. This cocktail was crafted by the talented Nandini Khaund and offers a fascinating mix of flavors, perfectly embodying the innovative spirit of contemporary mixology. Its origin ties it to a place known for its blend of historical charm and modern vibrancy, making it not just a drink but a little piece of the cultural tapestry of Chicago. The Roman Holiday captures a moment of modern cocktail culture, bringing together a distinct fusion of bitter, tropical, and subtly sweet flavors.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the Roman Holiday cocktail?
Yes, you can certainly experiment with ingredient substitutions in the Roman Holiday cocktail to suit your taste preferences or ingredient availability. If you're looking for a different bitter profile, you might try using Aperol as a substitute for Campari, which will give a lighter and slightly less bitter note to the cocktail. For those interested in lowering the sugar content, consider using a natural sweetener like agave nectar in place of the dark sugar. You can also replace pineapple juice with mango or passion fruit juice to explore different tropical flavor profiles. However, be mindful that these changes will affect the drink's overall balance and taste.
What is the best way to garnish a Roman Holiday cocktail?
The traditional garnish for a Roman Holiday cocktail involves a cinnamon stick, which adds a warm, aromatic quality to the drink, enhancing its intriguing flavor profile. The presence of cinnamon offers a nice visual appeal and contributes an inviting scent that mingles with the herbal and tropical notes of the cocktail. If you want to creatively experiment with garnishes, consider adding a thin slice of lime or a small pineapple wedge to highlight the citrusy and tropical elements further. Be sure to use a fresh cinnamon stick, as its aroma will significantly impact the overall sensory experience.
How should the Roman Holiday cocktail be prepared for the best results?
To achieve the best results when preparing a Roman Holiday cocktail, it's important to follow the suggested method of shaking the ingredients rather than stirring them. Begin by combining all the ingredients - Amaro, Campari, coffee, pineapple juice, lime juice, and sugar - in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shaking the mixture ensures that the ingredients are well-integrated and the flavors balanced while also chilling the drink properly. Once thoroughly shaken, strain the cocktail into a lowball glass filled with fresh ice. This preparation method not only ensures a perfect blend of tastes but also lends the cocktail its characteristic cold and refreshing quality.
What foods pair well with a Roman Holiday cocktail?
The Roman Holiday cocktail pairs excellently with a variety of foods, largely due to its unique blend of bitter, sweet, and tropical flavors. For a savory option, consider pairing it with charcuterie featuring a mix of cured meats and cheeses, which complements the cocktail's bold flavors. Tapas with grilled vegetables or a light seafood dish, such as ceviche, also make ideal companions, as they bring out the citrus and herbal notes of the drink. For something on the sweeter side, dark chocolate or a dessert with caramel notes aligns beautifully with the depth provided by the Amaro and coffee components of the cocktail, creating a harmonious indulgence.
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