Yellow Submarine Recipe + Ingredients & Tips

how to make a Yellow Submarine recipe

📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Galliano
Alcohol 7%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0.5g
Carbohydrates 25g
Prep time 3 minutes

Dive into the vibrant world of the Yellow Submarine cocktail, a refreshing drink that’s as fun and lively as its name suggests. We’ll venture through its history, tantalize your taste buds with its unique flavor profile, and even explore some food pairings that elevate the experience. Ready to embark on this flavorful journey? Let’s dive in! ⬇️

History

The Yellow Submarine cocktail is a relatively new addition to the world of mixed drinks, having surfaced in the early 21st century. Its name and cheery color evoke a sense of nostalgia and joy, reminiscent of the iconic Beatles song. Though not steeped in centuries of tradition, it has quickly made a splash among cocktail enthusiasts.

  • The cocktail’s name is inspired by the Beatles’ 1966 song “Yellow Submarine.”
  • Its bright yellow hue is a nod to the fantastical underwater world depicted in the animated film of the same name.
  • The drink gained popularity as a summery, poolside favorite, perfect for sipping on a sunny day.

The taste of a Yellow Submarine?

Imagine a sip of summer with every gulp; the Yellow Submarine cocktail is a burst of sweet and tangy flavors. Its citrusy zest is balanced by a gentle sweetness, making it a hit at any gathering.

I have a soft spot for the Yellow Submarine cocktail; it’s like a ray of sunshine in a glass, always brightening up my day.

Interesting facts about Yellow Submarine

  • The cocktail’s popularity often spikes during the summer months, thanks to its refreshing qualities.
  • Some fans of the drink enjoy creating Yellow Submarine-themed parties, complete with Beatles music and 1960s decor.
  • Despite its name, the cocktail doesn’t actually contain any submarine parts—just a delightful mix of ingredients!

Ingredients

  • Vodka: 1.5 oz (45ml)
  • White rum: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Banana liqueur: 0.5 oz (15ml)
  • Orange juice: 3 oz (90ml)
  • Sweet and sour mix: 1 oz (30ml)
  • Club soda: A splash

A Highball glass is ideal for a Yellow Submarine, as its tall shape showcases the layers and colors beautifully. The glass also allows plenty of room for ice, which keeps the drink cool and refreshing. Alternatively, a Pint glass can be a fun option for a more casual presentation.

Recipe. How to make Yellow Submarine

  1. Pour 1.5 oz (45ml) of vodka and 1 oz (30ml) of white rum into a shaker filled with ice.
  2. Add 0.5 oz (15ml) of banana liqueur, 3 oz (90ml) of orange juice, and 1 oz (30ml) of sweet and sour mix to the shaker.
  3. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
  4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
  5. Top off with a splash of club soda and gently stir.
  6. Garnish with a slice of lemon or a cherry to add a pop of color.

While the Yellow Submarine is a delightful treat, it’s also wise to consider its sugar and calorie content. For a healthier twist, try substituting natural sweeteners or reducing the amount of banana liqueur. The orange juice provides vitamin C, but remember, moderation is key in any indulgence.

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Food Pairings

Certain foods have the magical ability to enhance the flavors of a Yellow Submarine, making each sip even more enjoyable. Here are some perfect pairings to try:

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Grilled chicken skewers with a zesty marinade complement the citrus notes of the Yellow Submarine, making for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Fresh Summer Salad

A crisp summer salad with vinaigrette dressing pairs beautifully with the cocktail’s lively profile, offering a light and balanced dining experience.

Tropical Fruit Platter

Enjoy a platter of tropical fruits like pineapple and mango alongside your drink; their natural sweetness echoes the cocktail’s fruity undertones.

I just adore the Yellow Submarine’s playful dance of sweet and sour—it’s like capturing laughter in a glass!


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Bartender Advice

  • Always use freshly squeezed orange juice for the brightest flavor.
  • Chill the glass before serving to keep the cocktail cool and refreshing.
  • Experiment with different brands of banana liqueur to find your ideal balance of sweetness.

Now that you’ve mastered the classic Yellow Submarine, 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 Yellow Submarine

  • Vodka: Consider using flavored vodka for an extra twist.
  • White rum: A spiced rum can provide a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
  • Banana liqueur: If it’s too sweet for you, reduce the amount or use a banana-flavored syrup instead.

Yellow Submarine Variations

Green Submarine

  • Ingredients: Substitute blue curaçao for banana liqueur to create a green hue.
  • Recipe: Follow the original recipe, replacing banana liqueur with blue curaçao and adding a dash of lemon juice.

Red Submarine

  • Ingredients: Add grenadine syrup instead of banana liqueur for a reddish twist.
  • Recipe: Mix as usual and pour grenadine over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.

Golden Submarine

  • Ingredients: Use gold rum and a splash of ginger beer.
  • Recipe: Build the drink over ice and top with ginger beer for a fizzy kick.

For those who prefer to steer clear of alcohol, a Virgin Yellow Submarine is simple to make. Just mix orange juice with a splash of lemon-lime soda and a dash of banana extract for a non-alcoholic treat.

Q&A

Can I make a Yellow Submarine ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just mix all the ingredients except the club soda, and keep it chilled. Add the soda just before serving for that perfect fizz.

What’s the best way to garnish a Yellow Submarine?

A slice of lemon or an orange wheel makes for a bright and cheery garnish, echoing the drink’s sunny disposition.

Is the Yellow Submarine a strong cocktail?

It’s a well-balanced mix with a moderate alcohol content, so it’s not too strong but still has a pleasant kick.

Can kids enjoy a version of the Yellow Submarine?

Certainly! Just skip the alcohol and add some fun garnishes like a paper umbrella or colorful straws for a kid-friendly version.

How can I make my Yellow Submarine less sweet?

Try using less banana liqueur or adding a bit more citrus juice to cut through the sweetness.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when making a Yellow Submarine?

Overdoing it with the banana liqueur can overwhelm the drink, and not shaking it enough might result in a less refreshing cocktail. Keep these in mind for the perfect balance!

Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer
Chris Glazer is a seasoned mixology and cocktail recipe writer at CocktailPlans.com. Chris has a deep passion for cocktail creation and mixology, and has been exploring and writing about the world of drinks for over 5 years.

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