Panda Fizz

October 3, 2023

The Panda Fizz from Katana Kitten marries the rich elegance of pear eau-de-vie with vodka and the creamy allure of Calpico concentrate. Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds a zesty vitality, while the meticulously crafted Pandan Syrup introduces an exotic depth. The rim adorned with black lava salt provides a striking contrast and a subtle, savory note. Topped with chilled soda water, this drink is an exquisite symphony of flavors and textures.

Recipe: Katana Kitten

Photo: Lizzie Munro

fuzzy   fizzy   lazy

  • • Glassware: Highball glass

    • Tools: Cocktail shaker and strainer

    • Garnish: Black lava salt

    • Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

    • ABV: 15-20%

    • Updated: October 3, 2023

  • This neutral spirit forms the foundation of the cocktail, allowing the other ingredients to shine through.

    Substitutions:

    • Gin: If you prefer a different base spirit, gin can be a suitable replacement. Its botanical profile can add an interesting twist to the cocktail.

    • Tequila: This can introduce a unique agave note that complements the other flavors.

  • A clear fruit brandy that captures the essence of pears with its intense, concentrated flavor.

    Substitutions:

    • Pear Liqueur: While not exactly the same, a pear liqueur can provide a similar pear essence to the cocktail.

    • Pear Brandy: This can bring a rich pear flavor, although it might have a slightly different intensity compared to eau-de-vie.

  • A creamy, sweet soft drink concentrate with a unique and delightful flavor profile.

    Substitutions:

    • Lychee Juice or Syrup: Lychee's sweet, fruity flavor can offer a similar creamy texture to the cocktail.

    • Coconut Milk: This can add a creamy consistency along with a unique tropical note.

  • The vibrant citrus notes provided by the lemon juice add a zesty liveliness to the mix, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients.

    Substitutions:

    • Lime Juice: For a tangy citrus kick, lime juice can be an excellent substitute.

    • Yuzu Juice: This Japanese citrus fruit offers a complex and zesty flavor profile.

  • This homemade infusion brings an exotic and aromatic depth to the cocktail, elevating its complexity.

    Ingredients:

    • 1.5 cups of water

    • 1.5 cups of sugar

    • 2 pandan leaves

    Preparation:

    • In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar and heat over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.

    • Add the pandan leaves and bring the mixture to a simmer. Remove from the heat, cover and let cool.

    • Strain through cheesecloth into an airtight 1-pint glass container.

    • Seal the container and store in the refrigerator for up to 6 weeks.

    Substitutions:

    • Vanilla Syrup: While not the same, vanilla syrup can contribute a sweet, aromatic element to the cocktail.

    • Almond Syrup: This can introduce a nutty undertone along with sweetness.

  • Its effervescence enlivens the drink, providing a refreshing finish.

  • The rim of the glass is adorned with this unique salt, providing a striking

    Substitutions:

    • Sea Salt: While lacking the distinctive color and mineral content, sea salt can still provide a salty rim.

    • Smoked Sea Salt: This can add a smoky, savory element to the rim, creating a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients

  1. Rim a collins glass with the lemon wedge and black lava salt.

  2. Combine the vodka, eau-de-vie, Calpico, lemon juice and pandan syrup into a shaker with ice.

  3. Shake and strain into the glass over ice.

  4. Top with chilled soda water and stir gently.

Preparation

pear and pandan dance,
calpico whispers sweetly,
exotic fusion.

“This cocktail is an enticing blend of flavors. The vodka provides a neutral canvas for the vibrant pear eau-de-vie, while the Calpico concentrate adds a creamy sweetness. The freshly squeezed lemon juice offers a zesty kick, and the homemade Pandan Syrup introduces an exotic, aromatic depth. The soda water brings a refreshing effervescence that ties all the elements together. Finally, the drink is adorned by a rim of black lava salt, not only adding a visual flair but also contributing a subtle, savory note, creating a sensory journey that's truly captivating.”

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