📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 25%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 10g
Prep time 3 minutes
Imagine you’re on a treasure hunt, but instead of gold, you’re after the perfect sip of summer. The Pegu Club cocktail is that hidden gem, a blend of zesty citrus, a snug hug of gin, and the exotic whispers of bitters and orange liqueur. Let’s dive into a world where each ingredient tells a story, and discover why the Pegu Club is more than just a drink—it’s an adventure in a glass. Ready for the journey? Let’s mix! ⬇️
History
The Pegu Club cocktail is a classic drink that comes from Yangon, Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. It was created in the 1920s and quickly became popular among British officers. This refreshing cocktail has stood the test of time and continues to be enjoyed worldwide.
- The name “Pegu Club” honors a British colonial club in Yangon, where it was first mixed.
- It became a signature drink for travelers and adventurers during the British colonial period.
- The cocktail was a symbol of sophistication and the exotic allure of Southeast Asia.
The taste of a Pegu Club?
Sipping a Pegu Club is like biting into a sweet, tangy orange with a hint of spice. It’s refreshing with a balance of sweet and sour, perfect for a hot day or a fancy party.
I personally love drinking Pegu Clubs because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Pegu Club
- The cocktail’s popularity soared after being featured in famous bar guidebooks in the 1930s.
- Despite its origins in Myanmar, the Pegu Club cocktail became a hit in American and European bars.
- The drink has enjoyed a revival among craft cocktail enthusiasts in the 21st century.
Ingredients
- Gin: 1.5 oz (45ml)
- Orange Liqueur: 0.75 oz (22ml)
- Lime Juice: 0.75 oz (22ml)
- Angostura Bitters: 1 dash
- Orange Bitters: 1 dash
A Cocktail Glass is the best choice for serving a Pegu Club because its shape concentrates the aroma, enhancing the drink’s flavor. If unavailable, a Highball Glass also works well for a more casual presentation.
Recipe. How to make Pegu Club
- Combine 1.5 oz (45ml) of gin, 0.75 oz (22ml) of orange liqueur, and 0.75 oz (22ml) of lime juice in a shaker.
- Add a dash of Angostura bitters and orange bitters to the mix.
- Shake with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
While the Pegu Club is a treat, it’s wise to remember it contains alcohol and sugar. For a lighter version, swap out the syrup for a natural sweetener, and keep in mind that moderation is key.
Food Pairings
Certain foods have the power to elevate the Pegu Club experience, complementing its citrusy zing and botanical notes. Here are a few that marry perfectly with this storied cocktail.
Spicy Appetizers
The bright acidity of the Pegu Club cuts through spicy flavors beautifully, pairing well with dishes like Thai spring rolls or jalapeño poppers.
Grilled Seafood
Grilled shrimp or fish tacos with a squeeze of lime bring out the cocktail’s citrus notes, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Dark Chocolate
The bittersweet intensity of dark chocolate contrasts with the Pegu Club’s sweetness, making for a sophisticated dessert pairing.
I really like the Pegu Club’s tangy kick; it’s like a splash of sunshine in my mouth.
🍸 Mix up your beverage routine
Receive the freshest cocktail recipes and bar trends directly in your inbox.
Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh lime juice for the best flavor—it’s like the difference between a high-five and a handshake.
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink cool and refreshing for longer.
- Experiment with different brands of gin to find your perfect match for the cocktail.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Pegu Club, 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 Pegu Club
- Gin: Try an Old Tom Gin for a sweeter, more rounded flavor.
- Orange Liqueur: Use a premium triple sec or Cointreau for a smoother taste.
- Bitters: Experiment with different artisanal bitters for a unique twist.
Pegu Club Variations
Spiced Pegu Club
- Ingredients: Add a cinnamon stick during shaking.
- Recipe: Strain into a glass and garnish with a star anise.
Tropical Pegu Club
- Ingredients: Use coconut rum instead of gin.
- Recipe: Garnish with a slice of pineapple for a beachy vibe.
Herbal Pegu Club
- Ingredients: Include a sprig of fresh thyme in the shaker.
- Recipe: Serve with a thyme garnish for an aromatic flourish.
For a non-alcoholic version, mix lime juice, a splash of orange juice, and simple syrup with a dash of non-alcoholic bitters. Serve over ice for a refreshing mocktail.
Q&A
Can I make a Pegu Club without the bitters?
Sure, but bitters add depth. It’s like a painting without shadows—still nice, but not as dramatic.
Is the Pegu Club very strong?
It’s got some kick, like a feisty pony. Balance is key—too much gin overpowers the delicate dance of flavors.
How can I make my Pegu Club less sweet?
Ease up on the liqueur, buddy. Or, add more lime juice for an extra zing!
What’s the best gin to use for a Pegu Club?
That’s like asking for the best star in the sky! Start with a dry gin and explore from there.
Can I batch make Pegu Clubs for a party?
Absolutely! It’s like making a big pot of stew—just keep the ratios, and you’ll have a star dish.
What’s a good non-citrus garnish for a Pegu Club?
Why not a mint leaf? It’s like a little green flag saying, “Hey, taste this!”
