HOME
Home » Guides » What Are the Unusual Ingredients to Add to Your Cocktails?

What Are the Unusual Ingredients to Add to Your Cocktails?

Posted at March 23rd, 2023 | Categorised in Guides

Are you tired of the same old cocktail ingredients? Do you want to impress your friends with something unique and unexpected? It’s time to unleash your inner mixologist with these unconventional cocktail ingredients.

First up on our list is beetroot juice. This earthy and slightly sweet juice is a great addition to any cocktail. It pairs well with gin and vodka, adding both flavor and a beautiful pink hue. Try adding a splash to your next Bloody Mary or margarita for a twist on the classic.

If you’re looking for something a little more exotic, try lemongrass. This herb is commonly used in Thai cuisine but can also add a refreshing flavor to cocktails. Steep sliced lemongrass in simple syrup and add to a gin and tonic for a truly unique drink.

For a spicy kick, try adding jalapeño to your cocktail. Muddle a slice or two in a margarita or add some spice to a mojito. Don’t be afraid to play around with the heat level – remove the seeds for a milder flavor or leave them in for a real punch.

Ingredient Flavor Recommended Spirits
Beetroot Juice Earthy, Sweet Gin, Vodka
Lemongrass Refreshing Gin, Rum
Jalapeño Spicy Tequila, Rum

 

Finally, let’s talk about balsamic vinegar. This may seem like an odd choice for a cocktail ingredient, but trust us – it works. Add a splash to a gin and tonic or mix with tequila for a unique margarita. The vinegar adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that balances well with other ingredients.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with these unconventional cocktail ingredients. Mix and match to find your perfect drink. Who knows, you might even discover your new go-to cocktail.

Think Outside of the Box With These Not-So-Ordinary Cocktail Ingredients

Out of the Ordinary: Unconventional Ingredients to Incorporate in Your Cocktails

Are you tired of the same old cocktails with the same old ingredients? It’s time to think outside of the box and try something new. These not-so-ordinary cocktail ingredients may surprise you with their ability to elevate your drink game.

First on our list is balsamic vinegar. This tangy addition is perfect for adding depth and complexity to any cocktail. Try mixing it with gin, simple syrup, and muddled strawberries for a refreshing twist on a classic gin cocktail.

Next up is sriracha. Yes, you read that right. The spicy sauce can add a kick to your drink and is particularly delicious when paired with tequila or vodka. Mix it with lime juice, honey, and your preferred spirit for a unique, fiery cocktail.

For those with a sweet tooth, nutella can be a surprising addition to your next cocktail. It pairs particularly well with dark rum and cream or milk. Simply mix nutella and your preferred milk/cream with rum and shake over ice for a sweet, indulgent treat.

Ingredient Pairings
Green tea Gin, sake, lemon
Black pepper Bourbon, cucumber, lime
Pink grapefruit Vodka, honey, lime juice

 

If you’re looking for something less unconventional but still unique, try experimenting with the following ingredients:

  • Fresh herbs like basil or thyme
  • Coconut water for a tropical twist
  • Beet juice for a vibrant, healthy drink option

The possibilities are endless when it comes to mixing up your cocktail game. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try something new. Who knows, you may discover a new favorite drink!

Rev up Your Cocktail Game With These Unconventional Ingredients

Out of the Ordinary: Unconventional Ingredients to Incorporate in Your Cocktails

If you’re tired of the same old, same old cocktails, it’s time to rev up your game with some unconventional ingredients. While classics like gin, vodka, and whiskey are always reliable, adding some unique flavors can elevate your cocktail experience. Here are some unexpected ingredients to try out at home.

  • Beetroot Juice: This may sound like an odd ingredient, but beetroot juice can add a subtle earthy sweetness to your cocktails. Use it as a base for a refreshing summer drink or mix it with gin and lemon for a zesty twist on a classic.
  • Black Pepper: Sprinkling a pinch of black pepper into your drink can give it a subtle spice that plays off the sweetness of fruit juices or honey. Try adding it to a margarita or whiskey sour for a surprising kick.
  • Cucumber: Instead of using traditional citrus fruits to add freshness to your drinks, try using cucumber. It gives a crisp, cool flavor that pairs well with gin or tequila. Pair it with mint and elderflower for a light and refreshing cocktail.

These are just a few examples of unconventional ingredients you can use to take your cocktails to the next level. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things – who knows, you might just discover your new favorite drink.

Innovative and Surprising Cocktail Ingredients to Elevate Your Home Bartending Skills

Out of the Ordinary: Unconventional Ingredients to Incorporate in Your Cocktails

When it comes to making cocktails at home, it’s easy to stick to the tried-and-true ingredients like vodka, gin, and rum. But if you’re looking to step up your bartending game and impress your friends, why not try incorporating some unconventional ingredients into your drinks? Here are some innovative and surprising cocktail ingredients to elevate your home bartending skills:

  1. Balsamic vinegar: This tangy ingredient may seem more fitting for a salad dressing than a cocktail, but trust us – it adds a unique depth of flavor. Try adding a splash to a gin and tonic or a whiskey sour.
  2. Candied ginger: Not only is candied ginger a tasty snack on its own, it also makes for a great cocktail garnish. Plus, its spicy sweetness pairs well with a variety of spirits.
  3. Turmeric: Known for its health benefits, turmeric also adds a vibrant yellow color and earthy flavor to cocktails. Try muddling it with mint and lime for a refreshing summer drink.

Other unconventional ingredients to experiment with include:

  • Soy sauce
  • Coconut water
  • Black pepper
  • Basil seeds
  • Smoked salt

Remember, the key to incorporating these ingredients is balance. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adjusting as needed. With a little creativity, you can take your home bartending skills to the next level.

Impress Your Friends With These Unconventional Ingredients in Your Next Cocktail

Out of the Ordinary: Unconventional Ingredients to Incorporate in Your Cocktails

Are you tired of the same old cocktails at every party? Do you want to impress your friends with your mixology skills? Look no further than these unconventional ingredients to add depth and flavor to your next cocktail creation.

First up, let’s talk about using herbs and spices in your cocktails. Think rosemary, ginger, and even thyme. These ingredients add a unique twist to traditional drinks and are sure to surprise and delight your guests. For example, adding a sprig of rosemary to a gin and tonic can enhance the herbal notes of the gin and provide a refreshing aroma.

Next, let’s consider unique fruits and vegetables to use in your cocktails. Instead of traditional citrus fruits, try using blood oranges or kumquats for a burst of tangy flavor. Similarly, muddling cucumber or jalapenos can add a refreshing or spicy kick to your drinks. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different produce to find the perfect complement to your favorite spirits.

Herbs and Spices Fruits and Vegetables
Rosemary Blood Oranges
Ginger Kumquats
Thyme Cucumber
Jalapenos

 

Finally, consider incorporating unexpected ingredients like tea or bitters into your cocktails. Adding a splash of tea-infused simple syrup can create a unique background flavor in your favorite drinks. Similarly, bitters like celery or lavender can add depth and complexity to even the most basic cocktail recipes.

So there you have it – impress your friends with these unconventional ingredients in your next cocktail creation. Remember to experiment and have fun with your mixology skills, and your guests are sure to be impressed.

Spice up Your Cocktail Menu With These Unconventional Ingredients

Out of the Ordinary: Unconventional Ingredients to Incorporate in Your Cocktails

If you’re tired of serving the same old cocktails and want to add some excitement to your drink menu, it’s time to experiment with unconventional ingredients. By incorporating unexpected elements into your drink recipes, you can create unique and unforgettable cocktails that will leave your guests impressed.

Here are some unconventional ingredients to help you spice up your cocktail menu:

  • Hot Sauce: Adding a dash of hot sauce to a cocktail can give it a spicy kick. It works particularly well in Bloody Marys, Margaritas or even Gin and Tonics. You can use any hot sauce you prefer, from the milder Sriracha to the spicier Tabasco.
  • Coconut Water: Coconut water adds a subtle sweetness and tropical flavor to cocktails. It pairs well with rum, vodka, and gin. Mix it with pineapple juice and rum for a refreshing Piña Colada.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar might sound like an unlikely cocktail ingredient, but it can add depth and complexity to a drink. You can use it as a substitute for citrus in a Sour, or mix it with gin and sparkling water for a twist on the classic Gin and Tonic.

These are just a few examples – there are countless other unconventional ingredients you can use to create unique cocktails. Some other ideas include:

Ingredient Flavor Profile Best With
Lavender Floral, herbaceous Gin, Champagne
Black Pepper Spicy, peppery Bourbon, Whiskey
Earl Grey Tea Earthy, floral Gin, Vodka
Beet Juice Earthy, sweet Tequila, Vodka

 

By experimenting with unconventional ingredients, you can elevate your cocktail game and stand out from the crowd. Just be sure to taste test your creations before serving them to guests, and have fun discovering new flavor combinations.

Unexpected but Delightful Cocktail Ingredients to Experiment With at Home

Out of the Ordinary: Unconventional Ingredients to Incorporate in Your Cocktails

Are you tired of the same old cocktails? Want to spice things up and impress your guests? Look no further than these unexpected but delightful cocktail ingredients to experiment with at home.

First up, let’s talk about herbs. While herbs like mint and basil are commonly used in cocktails, have you ever considered adding sage or rosemary? These herbs can bring a unique and savory flavor to your drinks. Try adding a sprig of rosemary to a gin and tonic or infusing sage into a simple syrup for a refreshing whiskey sour.

Next on the list is spices. Cinnamon and nutmeg are popular choices, but why not try adding cardamom or clove? A dash of cardamom bitters can add a warm and spicy kick to a rum cocktail, while a clove-infused syrup can bring depth to a tequila drink.

Finally, let’s talk about fruits and vegetables. While citrus fruits are a staple in many cocktails, have you ever tried adding cucumber or bell pepper? Muddle cucumber slices with a bit of sugar for a refreshing gin and tonic twist, or try blending roasted bell pepper into a margarita for a smoky and savory flavor.

Ingredient Cocktail Example
Sage Sage Whiskey Sour
Rosemary Rosemary Gin and Tonic
Cardamom Cardamom Rum Cocktail
Clove Clove Tequila Drink
Cucumber Cucumber Gin and Tonic
Bell Pepper Roasted Bell Pepper Margarita

 

So next time you’re feeling adventurous, give these unexpected but delightful cocktail ingredients a try. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite drink!

Elevate Your Craft Cocktail With These Offbeat Ingredients

Out of the Ordinary: Unconventional Ingredients to Incorporate in Your Cocktails

Do you want to impress your guests with a craft cocktail that’s a step above the average drink? Then it’s time to elevate your game with offbeat ingredients! While classic cocktails will always have their place, adding a unique twist with unexpected ingredients can take your bartending skills to the next level.

First on the list is a surprising ingredient you might not have considered before: tea. Yes, tea can be used to infuse flavor into cocktails, adding a sophisticated touch. Try adding a black tea-infused simple syrup to your next cocktail for an unexpected depth of flavor.

  • Black tea-infused simple syrup
  • Green tea-infused gin
  • Chamomile-infused vodka

Next, consider adding a savory touch to your drink with herbs and spices. Think outside the box and experiment with ingredients like sage, thyme, and rosemary. These can be muddled with other ingredients or used to garnish the drink for an aromatic and flavorful addition.

Herb/Spice Best paired with…
Sage Grapefruit
Thyme Lemon
Rosemary Orange

 

Lastly, consider adding a fruity twist to your cocktail with unique ingredients like dragonfruit, prickly pear, or blood orange. These can be used in both sweet and savory cocktails, and their vibrant colors will make any drink stand out.

  • Dragonfruit puree
  • Prickly pear juice
  • Blood orange slices

By elevating your cocktail game with offbeat ingredients, you’ll take your mixology skills to new heights. Experiment with unexpected flavors and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Who knows, you might just create the next big thing in craft cocktails!

Unconventional Mixers

Out of the Ordinary: Unconventional Ingredients to Incorporate in Your Cocktails

Are you tired of the same old cocktails? Do you want to elevate your home bartending game and wow your guests with something unexpected? Look no further than unconventional mixers.

Instead of solely relying on juices and sodas, try experimenting with unique mixers. Not only do they add a unique twist to classic cocktails, but they can also enhance the flavors and add complexity to your drinks.

One unconventional mixer to try is kombucha. This fermented tea beverage adds a tangy and slightly effervescent element to cocktails. Try mixing it with vodka and fresh mint for a refreshing summer drink.

Another unexpected mixer is balsamic vinegar. When added to cocktails, it adds a rich and slightly sweet flavor, similar to a shrub. Mix it with bourbon and fresh blackberries for a twist on the classic Old Fashioned.

  • Kombucha
  • Balsamic vinegar
Mixer Cocktail Pairing
Kombucha Vodka and mint
Balsamic vinegar Bourbon and blackberries

 

Other offbeat mixers to experiment with include egg whites (which can add a frothy texture to cocktails), pickle juice (great for a savory Bloody Mary), and coconut water (perfect for a tropical twist on a margarita).

Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box and try new things when it comes to mixers. Who knows, your experimentation may just lead to your new favorite cocktail.

Breaking the Cocktail Mold

Out of the Ordinary: Unconventional Ingredients to Incorporate in Your Cocktails

Cocktails are a favorite alcoholic beverage for many people. The blends of flavors, different alcohol options, and mixers make for an endless variety of drink choices. However, if you’re tired of the same old drink options, try breaking the cocktail mold with these unconventional ingredients.

1. Matcha Powder

Matcha powder is made from ground green tea leaves and has a unique flavor that blends well with cocktails. Add a teaspoon of matcha powder to your drink for an earthy and slightly bitter taste. It is perfect in a bright and refreshing gin and tonic.

2. Beet Juice

If you’re looking for a natural way to add a pop of color to your drink, beet juice is a great option. This vegetable juice is sweet and slightly earthy, which balances nicely with alcohol. Try pairing beet juice with gin, lime, and ginger beer for a colorful take on a Moscow Mule.

3. Bacon

You’ve heard of bacon-wrapped appetizers, but how about bacon in your drink? Making a bacon-infused liquor is an easy way to add a smoky flavor to your cocktail. Add the bacon-infused bourbon to a classic Old Fashioned for a twist on a timeless drink.

4. Cilantro

Cilantro adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to drinks. Muddle cilantro leaves into a cocktail shaker with lime, simple syrup, and tequila for a refreshing take on a margarita.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine that adds a mild, earthy flavor to cocktails. Mix turmeric with whiskey, honey, and lemon for a golden twist on a hot toddy.

These unconventional ingredients are sure to take your cocktail game to the next level. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new flavors and ingredients to make your own unique drink creations.

Author