Smokin’ cocktails straight off the grill

Better than a nicotine fix, these smoky flavours aren’t injurious to health. In fact, they are absolutely delicious. In the pantheon of smoked foods — cheese, ham et al — grilled drinks are the newest kids on the block. Ruchira Hoon tells more.

Better than a nicotine fix, these smoky flavours aren’t injurious to health. In fact, they are absolutely delicious. In the pantheon of smoked foods — cheese, ham et al — grilled drinks are the newest kids on the block. And don’t go by appearances. While they look like ordinary drinks, they taste quite woody and scrumptious.

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The concept is really simple. By grilling fruits and vegetables before introducing them into alcohol, you’re actually giving an edge to your cocktail. The smoky flavour cuts across the sweetness and adds a complementary depth to it.

If you don’t believe this, try a Grilled Watermelon Capriojka — the flavours of this fleshy red fruit are enhanced by smoking it — and then it’s blended with sugar and quality vodka. Or try a Smoked Mai Tai, where the pineapple is soaked in rum before grilling the fruit and mixing it with, well, more rum. Grilled Pomegranate and Balsamic Martini, a mixture of pomegranate seeds soaked in balsamic vinegar and then smoked, could perhaps take you to another level.

You could try this with vegetables, too, actually. Grilled tomatoes, celery, red onions, and even pepper, add an edge to this ultimate twist in cocktails.

A Cucumber Spritzer — a mixture of grilled cucumber, mint, celery and Sprite — can really hit the spot. Even a Smoked Orange peel cooler can work well for those who could use this smokingly delicious drink to impress the guests.