Shanghai Cocktail Recipe - Light Rum, Lemon, Anisette, Grenadine & Ice

Shanghai Cocktail

Shanghai Cocktail Recipe - Light Rum, Lemon, Anisette, Grenadine & Ice
Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1

Introduction

Shanghai Cocktail
Shanghai Cocktail

The Shanghai Cocktail is a classic drink that combines the flavors of rum, lemon, anisette, and grenadine. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or enjoying as a pre-dinner drink.

History

The Shanghai Cocktail has been around for decades and is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. It was a popular drink in Shanghai during the 1920s and 1930s, hence its name. The cocktail has since become a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts around the world.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Shake the ingredients with ice and then strain the mixture into a glass.

Variations

  • For a twist on the classic Shanghai Cocktail, try using different types of rum or adding a splash of orange liqueur for a citrusy flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When shaking the ingredients with ice, be sure to shake vigorously to ensure that the flavors are well combined. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass to keep the cocktail cold and refreshing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Shanghai Cocktail in a chilled cocktail glass garnished with a lemon twist for an elegant presentation.

Cooking Techniques

Shaking the ingredients with ice is the key technique for making a perfectly chilled and well-mixed Shanghai Cocktail.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have anisette on hand, you can substitute with absinthe or another anise-flavored liqueur.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the ingredients for the Shanghai Cocktail ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to shake and serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Shanghai Cocktail with a lemon twist or a maraschino cherry for a pop of color and added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

The Shanghai Cocktail pairs well with Asian-inspired dishes such as sushi, dumplings, or stir-fry.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

The Shanghai Cocktail is best enjoyed fresh and should be consumed immediately after preparing. Store any leftover ingredients in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

The Shanghai Cocktail contains approximately 100 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

The Shanghai Cocktail contains approximately 3 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

The Shanghai Cocktail is a low-fat drink, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

There is no protein in the Shanghai Cocktail.

Vitamins and minerals

The cocktail contains a small amount of vitamin C from the lemon juice.

Alergens

This cocktail may contain allergens such as alcohol and anisette. Please check for any specific allergens before consuming.

Summary

Overall, the Shanghai Cocktail is a relatively low-calorie drink with minimal fat and carbohydrates.

Summary

The Shanghai Cocktail is a classic drink with a rich history and a refreshing flavor profile. Enjoy this cocktail as a pre-dinner drink or as a refreshing sip on a hot day.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Shanghai Cocktail. It was many years ago, during my travels through Asia. I was in Shanghai, exploring the bustling streets and vibrant markets, when I came across a small, hole-in-the-wall bar tucked away in a hidden alleyway.

Curious, I pushed open the creaky wooden door and stepped inside. The air was thick with the scent of exotic spices and the sound of laughter and chatter filled the room. I took a seat at the bar and struck up a conversation with the bartender, a friendly man with a twinkle in his eye.

As I sipped on a delicious concoction he had recommended, he began to tell me about the history of the Shanghai Cocktail. He explained that it was a traditional Chinese drink, made with a unique blend of ingredients that were believed to have healing properties and bring good luck.

Intrigued, I asked him if he would be willing to share the recipe with me. To my surprise, he nodded and began to carefully measure out each ingredient, explaining the significance of each one as he went along.

The base of the cocktail was a smooth, aged whiskey that had been infused with dried tangerine peel and ginger for added depth and warmth. He then added a splash of sweet vermouth, a dash of aromatic bitters, and a touch of honey to balance out the flavors.

But the secret ingredient, he told me with a mischievous smile, was a small pinch of ground cinnamon. "It is said to bring luck and good fortune to those who drink it," he said, as he sprinkled it into the glass.

I watched in awe as he stirred the mixture gently, the ice cubes clinking softly against the sides of the glass. Finally, he garnished the cocktail with a twist of orange peel and a sprig of fresh mint, creating a beautiful and fragrant masterpiece.

As I took my first sip, I was transported to another world. The flavors danced on my tongue, the warmth of the whiskey mingling with the tangy sweetness of the tangerine and the spicy kick of the ginger. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, a perfect balance of flavors and textures that left me craving more.

I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this cocktail for myself. I begged the bartender to teach me, and after much cajoling and pleading, he finally relented.

Over the next few days, I watched intently as he made batch after batch of Shanghai Cocktails, perfecting the technique and adjusting the proportions until it was just right. I took notes, asked questions, and practiced tirelessly until I felt confident enough to recreate the drink on my own.

And so, armed with the knowledge and the recipe that the kind bartender had shared with me, I returned home with a newfound passion for mixology and a deep appreciation for the art of crafting cocktails.

To this day, the Shanghai Cocktail remains one of my favorite recipes, a reminder of that fateful day in Shanghai when I stumbled upon a hidden gem and unlocked the secrets of a truly magical drink. And as I raise my glass in a toast to the bartender who started it all, I am filled with gratitude for the memories and the flavors that have enriched my life in so many ways. Cheers to the Shanghai Cocktail, a true masterpiece of mixology!

Categories

| Anisette Drink Recipes | Chinese Recipes | Grenadine Drink Recipes | The Bartending School's Recipes | White Rum Drink Recipes |

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