If you’ve been to a Diwali party recently, you’ve probably noticed how increasingly creative bar setups are becoming. From new cocktails and interesting names like Seven Trails to fun interpretations of poker and playing cards as drinks, there are plenty of ways to make your bar stand out.
It’s a fun addition to any party, whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a larger celebration. These little details help personalise the experience and add a thoughtful touch that your guests are sure to enjoy. So, if you’re in the middle of planning a Diwali party, here are four cocktail recipes you should definitely try. The best part? You can make all of them using some really good Indian spirits.
This is a desi take on the classic martini, with a little nimbu and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
60 ml Hapusa gin
15 ml fresh lemon juice
10 ml sugar syrup
10 ml dry vermouth
A pinch of black salt
Lemon peel to garnish
Steps
Add the gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup, vermouth and black salt to a cocktail shaker.
Fill with ice and shake until thoroughly chilled.
Double strain into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with a twist of lemon peel and serve.
This rum cocktail takes inspiration from kokum, a familiar ingredient in Indian kitchens, particularly along the western coast.
Ingredients
60 ml Maka Zai rum
30 ml kokum syrup
15 ml fresh lime juice
60 ml pineapple juice
A pinch of cinnamon powder
Ice
Star anise for garnish
Steps
Add the rum, kokum syrup, lime juice and pineapple juice to a shaker.
Add ice and shake well.
Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
Finish with a small pinch of cinnamon and garnish with star anise.
An Old Fashioned is a classic for a reason, but this version gives it a festive Indian touch. Saffron and cardamom bring warmth to the whisky without overpowering its flavour.
Ingredients:
60 ml Godawan single malt whisky
10 ml jaggery syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
2 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
2 strands of saffron
Orange peel
Ice
Steps
Add jaggery syrup, bitters, cardamom and saffron to a mixing glass.
Pour in the whisky and add ice.
Stir for approximately 20 to 30 seconds until chilled.
Strain into a short glass over a large ice cube.
Express an orange peel over the drink and use it as garnish.
If you're looking for something lighter and a little more playful, this one's worth trying.
Ingredients:
45 ml Stranger & Sons gin
30 ml lychee juice
15 ml fresh lime juice
10 ml rose syrup
60 ml soda water
Ice
Dried rose petals and one lychee for garnish
Steps
Add the gin, lychee juice, lime juice and rose syrup to a shaker.
Shake with ice until chilled.
Strain into a tall glass filled with ice.
Top with soda water and stir gently.
Garnish with rose petals and a lychee.