📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Brandy
Alcohol 25%
Calories 230 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 15g
Prep time 4 minutes
Imagine you’re sitting on a sunny beach, and you want a drink that’s exciting and different. The Alabazam is just that – a cocktail with a quirky name and a taste that’s full of surprises. Join us as we explore its history, flavors, and how to make your own, so you can impress your friends with this unique drink. ⬇️
History
The Alabazam cocktail hails from the 19th century, a testament to the creativity of bartenders of the past. Its intriguing blend of ingredients has delighted patrons for over a century. The Alabazam’s endurance through time showcases the cocktail’s ability to captivate and endure.
- The name ‘Alabazam’ is believed to echo the magic of its effects.
- It first appeared in print in the 1862 edition of “The Bartender’s Guide” by Jerry Thomas.
- The cocktail was a hit in the American cocktail scene during the late 1800s.
The taste of an Alabazam?
The Alabazam is like a magic trick in your mouth – it’s sweet, sour, and has a hint of spice. When you take a sip, you’re tasting a story that’s over a hundred years old!
I personally love Alabazam cocktails because they remind me of the excitement and flair of old-time mixology.
Interesting facts about Alabazam
- The Alabazam is known for its complex flavor that comes from a mix of citrus, bitters, and brandy.
- It’s a close relative to the Sidecar, another classic cocktail with a citrusy zest.
- Over the years, the Alabazam has been adapted and reinvented, but its core essence remains the same.
Ingredients
- Brandy: 1.5 oz (45 ml)
- Orange Curaçao: 1 tsp (5 ml)
- Lemon Juice: 1 oz (30 ml)
- Simple Syrup: 0.5 oz (15 ml)
- Angostura Bitters: a couple of dashes
A cocktail glass is the ideal vessel for an Alabazam, as its wide brim allows the beautiful aromas to enhance the tasting experience. Alternatively, a coupe glass could also cradle this historic concoction gracefully.
Recipe. How to make Alabazam
- Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Shake 1.5 oz of brandy, 1 tsp of orange curaçao, 1 oz of lemon juice, 0.5 oz of simple syrup, and a couple of dashes of Angostura bitters with ice.
- Strain the mixture into the chilled glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.
The Alabazam, while delicious, does contain sugar and alcohol, which can be high in calories. For a healthier twist, you could use a natural sweetener like honey instead of simple syrup. Brandy has antioxidants, but it’s best to enjoy this drink in moderation.
Food Pairings
The right food can make a great cocktail even better. Here are some perfect pairings for the Alabazam that will tantalize your taste buds.
Spicy Tapas
The sweetness and citrus notes of the Alabazam cut through the heat of spicy dishes beautifully, making it a perfect match for fiery tapas.
Charcuterie
A good charcuterie board with a variety of meats and cheeses complements the Alabazam’s rich and complex flavors.
Dark Chocolate
Indulge in a piece of dark chocolate with your Alabazam; the bittersweet flavors are a match made in heaven.
I simply adore the Alabazam’s enchanting blend of sweet, sour, and bitter—it’s like a symphony in a glass!
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- Chill the glass beforehand to ensure a refreshing first sip.
- Don’t skimp on the bitters; they’re essential to the cocktail’s unique taste.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Alabazam, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Alabazam
- Brandy: Experiment with cognac for a smoother, more refined taste.
- Orange Curaçao: Try using triple sec or another orange liqueur for a different citrus profile.
- Simple Syrup: Swap it for maple syrup for an autumnal twist.
Alabazam Variations
Winter Alabazam
- Ingredients: Add a cinnamon stick for a warming note.
- Recipe: Stir in the cinnamon with the other ingredients and let it infuse for a moment before shaking.
Tropical Alabazam
- Ingredients: Include a splash of coconut water for a tropical feel.
- Recipe: Shake all ingredients together and garnish with a slice of pineapple.
Berry Alabazam
- Ingredients: Muddle a handful of fresh berries in the shaker before adding the rest of the ingredients.
- Recipe: Shake vigorously and strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
For a non-alcoholic ‘Virgin Alabazam,’ mix fresh lemon juice with a splash of orange juice and a teaspoon of honey. Top it off with soda water for some fizz.
Q&A
Can I use a different kind of bitters in my Alabazam?
Certainly! While Angostura bitters are traditional, feel free to experiment with other types like orange or Peychaud’s for a unique twist.
What’s the best way to garnish an Alabazam?
A classic lemon twist is always elegant, but you could also add a brandied cherry for a touch of luxe.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for brandy?
Yes, try using a non-alcoholic spirit or apple cider vinegar mixed with water for the brandy’s depth without the alcohol.
How do I make my Alabazam less sweet?
Reduce the simple syrup and add a little more lemon juice for a tart edge that balances the sweetness.
Can the Alabazam be batched for parties?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of guests and mix in a large pitcher. Serve over ice and enjoy the party!
What’s the secret to a perfectly shaken Alabazam?
Shake vigorously until the shaker feels very cold to the touch, ensuring a well-chilled and diluted drink for the smoothest sip.
