Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is a rich, creamy, and sweet cocktail with a hint of nuttiness from the crème de cacao. It has a velvety texture and a warming, comforting taste that is perfect for sipping on a cold night.
East India Cocktail Recipe
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East India Nutrition Facts
Calories:250
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:18g
Alcohol:20%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 7, 2024
Contents
History
The East India cocktail has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, when it was created to pay homage to the British East India Company. This company played a significant role in the expansion of British trade and influence in Asia, and the cocktail was designed to capture the exotic flavors and ingredients of the region. It has since become a classic cocktail enjoyed by many around the world.
- The British East India Company was founded in 1600 and played a crucial role in the British colonization of India.
- The cocktail's unique blend of ingredients reflects the diverse cultures and flavors found in the East.
- The East India cocktail is a favorite among those who appreciate a well-balanced, complex drink with a touch of sweetness.
How East India Tastes?
The East India cocktail boasts a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors, with a hint of bitterness from the Angostura bitters. The brandy base provides a rich, warming foundation, while the pineapple juice adds a tropical twist. The maraschino liqueur and triple sec contribute to the cocktail's sweetness, and the overall taste is smooth, well-rounded, and satisfying.
Interesting facts about East India
- The East India cocktail is often garnished with a pineapple wedge or cherry, adding a touch of elegance and visual appeal.
- The cocktail is traditionally served in a martini or coupe glass, showcasing its beautiful amber color.
- The East India cocktail has been featured in numerous classic cocktail books, including Harry Craddock's 'The Savoy Cocktail Book' published in 1930.
Ingredients
- Brandy: 2 oz(60ml)
- Pineapple juice: 1 oz(30ml)
- Maraschino liqueur: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Triple sec: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Angostura bitters: 2 dashes
- Grenadine: 1 tsp
- Pineapple wedge: 1
- Maraschino cherry: 1
Brandy
Brandy is the heart of the East India cocktail. It provides a rich, warming base that the other ingredients play off of. Typically, 2 oz gives the right balance – too much and you'll be overpowered, too little, and where's the fun in that?
Alex Green
Pineapple Juice
Sweeter than a smile from your crush, pineapple juice adds a tropical twist and some necessary acidity. If you skimp on the 1 oz, your cocktail might lose its playful balance, so let's not leave the pineapple hanging.
Emma Rose
Maraschino Liqueur
The subtle, cherry-almond kiss of maraschino liqueur (0.5 oz) is like a secret whispered at midnight – it adds complexity. Less, and you'll miss the whisper; more, and the secret's no longer sweet.
Mary Mitkina
Triple Sec
Another 0.5 oz of triple sec lends a citrusy zing – think of it as the sparkle in your cocktail's eye. Be careful, though, too much can make it flashy, too little, and it might seem shy.
Alex Green
Angostura Bitters
Just 2 dashes - Angostura bitters are the spice of life here, adding depth and an edge. It's like salt in a soup; without it, you're just not complete.
Emma Rose
Grenadine
A teaspoon of grenadine brings sweetness and color, like blushing cheeks after a compliment. Don't overdo it though, or you'll find yourself in a saccharine situation.
Mary Mitkina
Garnishes
The pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry are not just eye candy – they give a hint of what's to come. Skip them, and you lose a layer of allure.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make East India Drink
- Chill a martini or coupe glass by filling it with ice and water.
- Combine the brandy, pineapple juice, maraschino liqueur, triple sec, Angostura bitters, and grenadine in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
- Discard the ice and water from the chilled glass.
- Strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Garnish with a pineapple wedge and maraschino cherry, either on a cocktail pick or placed directly on the rim of the glass.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh pineapple juice for a more vibrant and refreshing flavor.
- Chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before serving for an extra-cold cocktail.
- Shake the cocktail shaker until it feels cold to the touch to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed and chilled.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizer Pairings
- Cheese Platters: The warmth of the brandy pairs beautifully with a fine selection of cheeses, especially aged varieties like Gouda or Cheddar.
- Spicy Asian Dishes: The sweetness of the cocktail can counterbalance the heat from spicy dishes like Thai curry or Szechuan chicken.
- Seafood Appetizers: Pair it with lighter seafood options such as shrimp cocktail or calamari to complement the fruity undertones.
Dessert Pairings
- Fruit Tarts: The pineapple and maraschino flavors in the drink will enhance the taste of fruit-based desserts.
- Dark Chocolate: Try it with a piece of rich, dark chocolate for a truly indulgent experience.
Drink Pairings
- Coffee: Enjoy this cocktail with a post-dinner espresso to help digest the sweet and complex flavors.
- Sparkling Water: A simple palate cleanser between sips that won't compete with the intricate flavors of the East India cocktail.
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What you could change in East India
- Brandy: You can substitute with cognac or armagnac.
- Maraschino Liqueur: Luxardo Maraschino can be replaced with another cherry liqueur.
- Triple Sec: Cointreau or Grand Marnier can be used as a substitute.
Explore all drinks starting with E here
And of course - twists🍹
The Somerset India
Swap out the brandy for a smokey whiskey and you've got yourself a Somerset India. The smokiness will dance with the tropical notes in a tango of flavors you'll want to repeat.
Eastern Blush
Add a splash of lychee liqueur and top the drink with rose champagne for a floral twist that'll make your taste buds swoon like they're in a rom-com.
Caribbean Night
Let's go all-in on the pineapple. Use aged rum instead of brandy and a dash of coconut cream. You're not just on East India anymore; you're doing the limbo on a Caribbean beach.
In case you forgot basics how to make East India
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
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Frequently Asked Questions on East India
What is the best type of brandy to use in East India cocktail?
While any fine brandy can be used in East India cocktail, traditionally, a well-aged cognac is preferred for its rich and complex flavors.
What is the origin of brandy?
Brandy originated in the 12th century making it one of the oldest spirits in the world. It's believed to have been first distilled by Dutch traders in an attempt to preserve wine for long voyages.
Are there variations to the East India cocktail recipe?
Yes, various bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts adjust the quantities of ingredients to suit their preference. Some may prefer a bit more sweetness, while others may enhance the sour elements.
Is there any food that pairs particularly well with the East India cocktail?
The fruity, complex flavors of the East India cocktail pairs well with savory appetizers and spicy meals.
Can I make the East India cocktail non-alcoholic?
Yes, you can substitute the alcohol with non-alcoholic alternatives. For brandy, you can use apple juice or grape juice. Triple sec can be replaced with orange juice and for Maraschino liqueur, you could use cherry syrup or grenadine.
What type of ice should I use when shaking the cocktail?
Cubed ice works perfectly fine, but you might want to consider using larger ice spheres or blocks which will melt slower, thus avoiding dilution of the cocktail.
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