Get a taste of Hawaii with our irresistible Hawaiian Moonshine drink recipe featuring Okolehao Island Distillers, soda water, and ice. Perfectly served in a short glass, this refreshingly tropical concoction is a must-try for any beginner bartender looking to impress their guests with a touch of Hawaiian flair. Mix it up today!
Hawaiian Moonshine Ingredients
- 30 ml Okolehao Island Distillers
- 30 ml soda water
- 100 ml Ice
Hawaiian Moonshine Recipe
- mix the ingredients together with ice
- pour into Short glass
Recommend: serve in Short glass
Often referred to as cordial glasses. These tiny glasses are a traditional way to sip cordials (or liqueurs) straight and are not very common today. They're little, only carrying 2 to 3 ounces. Cordial glasses come in a variety of shapes and sizes; some are tulip-shaped, while others have a bowl shaped like a sour glass.The Rise of Hawaiian Moonshine: A Bartender's Guide
As a professional bartender, I have seen many drinks come and go, but one that has been gaining popularity is the Hawaiian Moonshine. This drink has a fascinating history, unique ingredients, and endless variations that can cater to different dietary needs. In this article, I will give you a comprehensive guide on how to make a perfect Hawaiian Moonshine, including its popularity, ingredient roles, garnishing, variations, and common mistakes to avoid.
Popularity
The Hawaiian Moonshine, also known as Okolehao, is a traditional Hawaiian spirit that has been around since the 1700s. It was made from the root of the Ti plant and was used for medicinal purposes. Over time, the drink became popular among locals and was even used in religious ceremonies.
The drink's popularity declined in the 1900s when the US government banned the production of Okolehao due to its high alcohol content. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in this Hawaiian moonshine. Today, Okolehao Island Distillers is one of the few companies producing this drink, and it has become a popular choice among bartenders and mixologists.
Ingredient Roles
The Hawaiian Moonshine has a unique flavor profile, thanks to its two main ingredients: Okolehao and soda water. Okolehao is a Hawaiian distilled spirit made from the Ti plant's root, giving the drink a slightly sweet and earthy taste. The soda water provides a refreshing effervescence, balancing the sweetness of the Okolehao.
Ice is also a crucial ingredient in making a Hawaiian Moonshine. It cools down the drink and dilutes the alcohol content, making it more palatable. It's essential to use good quality ice to ensure that it doesn't water down the drink too much.
How to Garnish
Garnishing a Hawaiian Moonshine is straightforward. The drink's simplicity is what makes it so appealing, so it's best to keep the garnish minimal. A simple lemon or lime wedge will add a refreshing citrus note to the drink. Alternatively, you can add a sprig of mint or a slice of pineapple to give the drink a tropical twist.
It's important to note that the garnish should complement the drink's flavor profile and not overpower it. A Hawaiian Moonshine is a delicate drink that doesn't need too much embellishment.
Variations
One of the best things about the Hawaiian Moonshine is its versatility. There are endless variations that you can make to cater to different dietary needs and preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Virgin/Mocktail Version: To make a non-alcoholic version of the Hawaiian Moonshine, replace the Okolehao with a sweetened coconut water or a pineapple juice. It will give the drink a similar tropical flavor without the alcohol content.
- Gluten-Free Version: Okolehao Island Distillers claim that their product is gluten-free, making it an ideal choice for people who are gluten intolerant.
- Vegan Version: The Hawaiian Moonshine is a vegan-friendly drink as it doesn't contain any animal products.
- Keto Version: To make a keto-friendly version of the Hawaiian Moonshine, replace the soda water with a sugar-free tonic water. It will give the drink a similar fizz without the added sugar.
- Low-Calorie Version: To make a low-calorie version of the Hawaiian Moonshine, reduce the amount of Okolehao used and replace it with soda water or coconut water. It will give the drink a lighter taste without compromising its flavor.
- More Variations: You can add different fruit juices such as mango, passionfruit, or guava to give the drink a fruity twist. You can also experiment with different herbs such as basil or thyme to add complexity to the drink's flavor profile.
Common Mistakes when Making
Making a Hawaiian Moonshine is a straightforward process, but there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Using too much Okolehao: The Okolehao has a high alcohol content, and too much of it can overpower the drink's flavor. It's best to use a small amount to ensure that the drink is well-balanced.
- Using poor quality ice: Using poor quality ice can water down the drink too much, making it less enjoyable. It's best to use good quality ice that is clear and free from impurities.
- Over-garnishing: Over-garnishing a Hawaiian Moonshine can detract from its delicate flavor. It's best to keep the garnish minimal and complementary to the drink's taste.
- Using the wrong glassware: The Hawaiian Moonshine is traditionally served in a short glass, but it can also be served in a rocks glass or a tumbler. It's important to choose the right glassware to enhance the drink's presentation and aroma.
In conclusion, the Hawaiian Moonshine is a unique and refreshing drink that has a fascinating history and endless variations. As a bartender, it's important to understand the drink's flavor profile, ingredient roles, and garnishing to make the perfect Hawaiian Moonshine. By avoiding common mistakes and experimenting with different variations, you can create a drink that is both delicious and memorable.
If you are going to order Hawaiian Moonshine in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Hawaiian Moonshine can be served with different ingredients in different places.
