This beverage is not what the name might initially suggest. No actual bong water is used in this creation, I promise. The Bongwater Drink is a cheekily named cocktail that’s as bold and irreverent as it sounds. It’s a conversation starter, a dare in a glass, and perhaps the most unique addition to your mixology repertoire.
So, let’s set aside the visceral reaction the name may elicit and dive straight into the murky depths of this intriguing concoction. After all, I’m not just here to stir your curiosity but also to blend it with a pinch of boldness and a splash of creativity.
How to make Bongwater Drink
The Bongwater cocktail is a mixed drink that gained popularity in the 1990s. It’s known for its unconventional name and ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz. Spiced Rum: This will be the base spirit of your drink, bringing in a warm, comforting undertone with hints of vanilla, cinnamon, and other spices.
- 1 oz. Melon Liqueur: Adding a splash of sweetness and a vibrant green hue, melon liqueur is the distinctive element that gives this drink its peculiar name.
- 1 oz. Coconut Rum: For a tropical twist, coconut rum infuses the concoction with a smooth, summery vibe.
- 1/2 oz. Blue Curacao: This adds a touch of citrus and an intriguing blue color that, when mixed with the green melon liqueur, creates the “bong water” appearance.
- Pineapple Juice: A splash will balance the strong flavors with its tartness and sweetness.
- Dash of Bitters (optional): A dash of bitters can add an extra layer of flavor for those seeking complexity.
- Ice Cubes: To keep the drink chilled and refreshing.
- Lemon Slice or Twist (for garnish): A citrusy garnish adds a pop of color and an aromatic allure.
Instructions
- Chill the Glass: First, place your cocktail glass in the freezer to chill. A cool glass will ensure your Bongwater Drink stays refreshing longer.
- Mix it Up: Fill a shaker with ice cubes. Pour in the spiced rum, melon liqueur, coconut rum, and Blue Curacao. If you’re using bitters, add a dash now.
- Shake Vigorously: Seal your shaker well and give it a hearty shake. You want to mix all the flavors thoroughly while also chilling the liquid, so shake for a good 10-15 seconds.
- Splash of Pineapple Juice: Open the shaker and add a splash of pineapple juice. Give it one gentle shake to integrate the juice without dominating the other flavors.
- Garnish Prep: Retrieve your cocktail glass from the freezer. Run a lemon slice around the rim before placing it on the side as a garnish.
- Serve: Strain the mixture from the shaker into your chilled glass.
- Add the Twist: Take a lemon twist, run it along the rim of the glass, twist it over the drink to release the oils, and drop it in.
- Enjoy: Your Bongwater Drink is now ready to be the talk of the evening. Serve immediately and observe as skepticism turns into surprise and, eventually, delight.
Tips
- Glass Choice: A highball glass works well for this drink. It provides enough space for the ice and mix while showcasing the color.
- Layering: If you want to get creative, you can layer the Blue Curacao over the back of a spoon for a floating effect.
- Ice Matters: Use large ice cubes to minimize dilution and strengthen the flavor.
- Balance is Key: Adjust the amount of pineapple juice to your liking. Too little may leave the drink overly strong, while too much can overpower the other elements.
- Experiment: Don’t hesitate to adjust the proportions or add other ingredients. Perhaps add a splash of lime juice for an extra zing or swap out spiced rum for dark rum for a deeper flavor profile.
What to serve with
The Bongwater Drink, with its blend of spiced and coconut rum, sweet melon liqueur, tart pineapple juice, and enchanting blue curaçao, is undoubtedly the star of any event. It brings with it a taste profile that’s as unique as its name, pairing perfectly with a variety of complementary dishes. Here, we will explore some exceptional culinary ideas to serve alongside this daring cocktail, enhancing your gastronomic experience.
Tropical Delights
Given the tropical undertones of the Bongwater Drink, it pairs wonderfully with dishes that embrace the island vibe.
- Grilled Shrimp: Brushed with a light coat of garlic butter, grilled to perfection and served with a tangy lime dip, grilled shrimp complements the drink’s distinct taste perfectly.
- Pineapple Salsa: Fresh, zesty and full of flavor, pineapple salsa brings out the delightful pineapple note in your drink.
- Coconut-crusted Chicken Tenders: Serve coconut-crusted chicken tenders, which harmoniously echo the coconut rum in your drink, to add a lush tropical vibe.
Classic Snacks
If you’re looking for simple and convenient bites, the Bongwater Drink also goes hand in hand with classic snack food.
- Cheese Platter: A medley of cheeses from sharp Cheddar to creamy Brie plays well with the cocktail’s mix of sweet and sour flavors.
- Nachos: A big platter of nachos loaded with cheese, guacamole, jalapeños and salsa can cut through the cocktail’s sweetness while complementing it with spiciness and acidity.
- Assorted Nuts: Be it flavored almonds, lightly salted cashews, or spicy pecans, nuts are a timeless pairing for any cocktail hour.
Spicy Splendor
With its sweet, fruity flavors, the Bongwater Drink is also well-suited to counterbalance spicy fare.
- Spicy Thai Satay: Skewered chicken or tofu coated in a spicy peanut sauce can be superb when accompanied by a sweet and strong cocktail.
- Hot Wings: These can create a balance of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. The spiced rum can withstand the heat, while the fruity elements moisten your palate.
- Jalapeño Poppers: Breaded, fried, and filled with cream cheese, these are perfect for adding a bit of spice to pair with the Bongwater Drink.
Ingredients substitute
The Bongwater Drink is nothing if not a conversation starter, a daring cocktail that breaks the ice with its audacious name and keeps the party buzzing with its unique flavor profile. It is a medley of rum, melon liqueur, coconut rum, blue curaçao, and pineapple juice. But what happens when you’re missing an ingredient or two? Fear not! I’ve got you covered with substitutes that won’t compromise on flavor.
Spiced Rum Substitute
Spiced rum brings warm notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and other spices to the Bongwater cocktail. If you don’t have spiced rum or fancy a change:
- Dark Rum: This substitute will give you a richer and more intense flavor.
- White Rum and Spice Infusion: Whisk together white rum with a pinch of ground allspice and ground nutmeg for a DIY version.
Melon Liqueur Substitute
Melon liqueur adds signature sweetness and a striking color. If it’s unavailable:
- Midori: This vibrant, Japanese melon fruit liqueur is the most common substitute.
- Watermelon Schnapps: While not exactly the same, this offers a similar sweet flavor and vivid color.
- DIY Melon Syrup: Blend fresh, ripe melon with a simple syrup in a mixer, then strain it to obtain a natural melon flavor.
Coconut Rum Substitute
Coconut rum envelops the drink in tropical vibes with its smooth, summery flavor. In its absence:
- Malibu: This coconut-flavored liqueur is the next best thing.
- Coconut Extract and White Rum: Combine a few drops of coconut extract with white rum for a quick fix.
- Coconut Water and Rum: Mix coconut water and white rum together for a lighter substitute.
Blue Curacao Substitute
Blue curaçao adds a tart, citrus taste and an alluring blue hue to our drink. If you can’t find it:
- Triple Sec and Food Coloring: You can use any other orange liqueur like Triple Sec and add a drop or two of blue food coloring to get the desired color.
- Blue Tonic Water: It won’t have the same orange notes, but the color will be there.
Pineapple Juice Substitute
Pineapple juice brings a balance of tartness and sweetness to the drink. If need be:
- Lime Juice: It will provide a refreshing acidity.
- Citrus Soda: Something like Sprite or 7-Up would both sweeten and add effervescence.
Final Thoughts
With a name as adventurous as its blend of flavors, the Bongwater Drink has proven to be a cocktail that goes beyond the ordinary. It combines the rich warmth of spiced rum with the sweetness of melon liqueur, the tropical hint of coconut rum, the citric twist of blue curaçao, and the balancing act of pineapple juice. It is not just a cocktail; it’s an exciting narrative in a glass, daring you to shed norms, embrace quirks, and create memories one sip at a time.
More Cocktail Recipes:
- Espresso Martini Without Kahlua
- New Orleans Hand Grenade Drink
- LA Water Drink Recipe
- Blackout Drink Recipe
- Rose Kennedy Drink Recipe
