Get ready to shake things up with the Chicago Handshake - a bold and bitter concoction that packs a punch! This simple recipe calls for Jeppsons Malort and beer, expertly mixed in a shaker to create a refreshing and satisfying beverage. Perfect for impressing your guests or simply enjoying on a hot summer day. Learn how to make this iconic drink like a pro with our step-by-step guide. Shake it up and cheers to the Windy City!
Chicago Handshake Ingredients
- 30 ml Jeppsons Malort
- 290 ml Beer
Chicago Handshake Equipment
- shaker - makes it easy to mixture ingredients
Chicago Handshake Recipe
- add other ingredients except Beer into shaker and shake vigorously
- fill Highball glass almost full with ice cubes
- top up with Beer
Recommend: serve in Highball glass
The highball (or hi-ball) and collins glasses have a lot in common. They can both be used for tall beverages and hold the same amount of liquid, which can range from 8 to 16 ounces.The Chicago Handshake: A Deep Dive into a Windy City Favorite
As a professional bartender, I have come across a wide range of cocktails that people love. But there's something special about the Chicago Handshake, a drink that has become a beloved favorite in the Windy City and beyond. In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about this unique cocktail, including its history, popularity, ingredients, variations, garnishes, and common mistakes when making it.
Popularity
History and Origins
The Chicago Handshake is a relatively new cocktail, having been created in the early 2000s. Its exact origins are unclear, but it's believed to have been invented by a group of bartenders in Chicago who wanted to create a drink that represented the city's unique flavor and culture. The cocktail quickly gained popularity among locals and has since become a staple in many Chicago bars and restaurants.
Famous For
The Chicago Handshake is famous for its unusual combination of ingredients. It's made with Jeppson's Malort, a bitter liqueur that's been a Chicago favorite for decades, and beer. The combination of these two ingredients creates a unique flavor that's both bitter and refreshing.
Geographic
While the Chicago Handshake is most popular in Chicago, it has gained a following in other cities across the United States. Many bars and restaurants now feature this drink on their menus, and some even offer their own variations.
Appearance
The Chicago Handshake is typically served in a highball glass and is a light, golden color. It has a thin layer of foam on top, which is created by shaking the beer with the Jeppson's Malort.
Ingredient Roles
Jeppson's Malort
Jeppson's Malort is the star ingredient in the Chicago Handshake. This bitter liqueur is made with a variety of herbs and spices and has a strong, bitter flavor. It's important to use Jeppson's Malort specifically in this cocktail, as it's what gives the drink its signature taste.
Beer
Beer is the other key ingredient in the Chicago Handshake. Any type of beer can be used, but light beers are typically preferred. The beer is shaken with the Jeppson's Malort to create a frothy, refreshing cocktail.
How to Garnish
The Chicago Handshake is typically served without a garnish, but some bars and restaurants may add a small lemon or lime wedge for a hint of citrusy flavor.
Variations
Virgin/Mocktail Version
To make a virgin or mocktail version of the Chicago Handshake, simply omit the Jeppson's Malort and use a non-alcoholic beer instead.
Gluten-Free Version
For a gluten-free version of the Chicago Handshake, use a gluten-free beer such as Omission or New Grist.
Vegan Version
The Chicago Handshake is already vegan-friendly, as both Jeppson's Malort and beer are vegan.
Keto Version
To make a keto-friendly version of the Chicago Handshake, use a low-carb beer such as Michelob Ultra or Corona Premier.
Low-Calorie Version
To make a low-calorie version of the Chicago Handshake, use a light beer and reduce the amount of Jeppson's Malort used.
More Variations
While the Chicago Handshake is typically made with Jeppson's Malort and beer, there are many variations that can be created. Some bars and restaurants may add other ingredients such as fruit juices or syrups to create a unique flavor.
Common Mistakes When Making
While the Chicago Handshake is a relatively simple cocktail to make, there are a few common mistakes that can be made.
Using the Wrong Beer
Using the wrong type of beer can significantly impact the flavor of the Chicago Handshake. It's important to use a light beer that won't overpower the bitterness of the Jeppson's Malort.
Over-Shaking
Shaking the beer and Jeppson's Malort for too long can cause the cocktail to become too foamy. It's important to shake the ingredients just enough to combine them and create a light layer of foam on top.
Not Chilling the Ingredients
The Chicago Handshake is best served cold, so it's important to chill the Jeppson's Malort and beer before making the cocktail. This will ensure that the drink is refreshing and easy to drink.
In conclusion, the Chicago Handshake is a unique and refreshing cocktail that has become a beloved favorite in the Windy City and beyond. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can create the perfect Chicago Handshake every time. So why not give it a try and experience this delicious cocktail for yourself?
If you are going to order Chicago Handshake in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Chicago Handshake can be served with different ingredients in different places.
