Unique Fruits for Cocktail Mixers
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just having a get-together with a few friends, it’s always nice to have a tasty, unique cocktail mix to offer up. Presenting your guests with something a little out of the ordinary is sure to be a hit and keep everyone talking. Rather than relying on the same tried and true flavor combinations, you can use a variety of unexpected fruits to create interesting and creative cocktails. Here are 6 unusual fruits that you can use to liven up any drink menu.
Lychee
The exotic Lychee is a unique, fragrant, and colorful fruit originating from China. Its distinct flavor has been described as a combination of grape and strawberry, with a slight hint of rose. Lychee is a great base for many tropical drinks, and it pairs especially well with coconut, mango, and pineapple. Try mixing some fresh Lychee juice with Malibu Rum, white cranberry juice, and a bit of lime juice for a refreshing cocktail.
Kumquat
Kumquats are small, sweet and sour citrus fruits native to East Asia. The flavor can be described as a mixture of oranges, limes and lemons, with a sweet, tart aftertaste. It’s a great addition to citrus-based drinks, but it also goes well with sweeter liquors like rum, brandy, or whiskey. Try adding some diced Kumquats to a glass of Whisky Sour to give it an extra zing.
Durian
Durian may not be for everyone, as it has a unique and somewhat pungent smell which some may find off-putting. But, don’t let that deter you from experimenting with this interesting fruit in your cocktails. The flavor itself is sweet and creamy, with notes of caramel and custard. It makes a great accompaniment to other tropical ingredients, such as mango and pineapple. Mix Durian puree with rum, cream of coconut, lime juice, and a dash of orange liqueur for an island-inspired drink.
Dragon Fruit
Dragon Fruit, also known as Pitaya, is an exotic and delicious member of the cactus family. It’s a great source of vitamins C and B-6, as well as dietary fiber. The flavor is mildly sweet, much like a melon or kiwi, and it has a distinct pinkish-red color that’s sure to add some visual appeal to your drink. Mix it with white rum, coconut water, and lime juice for a truly unique cocktail.
Papaya
Papaya is a tropical fruit that’s commonly used in smoothies and juices. It has a sweet, musky flavor, and it can be either ripe or slightly green. Papaya enhances the flavor of many drinks and adds some subtle sweetness to any cocktail. Try pairing it with tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup for an easy-to-make margarita.
Star Fruit
Star Fruit, or Carambola, is a sweet and juicy fruit native to Southeast Asia. It’s often enjoyed as a snack on its own, but it also can be used to create some truly unique cocktails. The flavor is reminiscent of apples, with a hint of citrus. Mix it with gin, lime juice, and some ginger beer for a refreshing, summery drink.
The next time you’re entertaining guests, give your cocktail menu an upgrade with these unique fruits. From Lychee to Papaya, these exotic flavors are sure to add some deliciousness and surprise to any gathering. Whether you just want to mix up some drinks for your friends or you’re looking for something special for a dinner party, these outdoor-of-the-box fruits are sure to make your event one to remember.
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