The celebration of Mardi Gras or Fat Tuesday is steeped with tradition. Known as Carnival in other parts of the world, its roots are entwined in the Catholic calendar, with the party signifying the “last hurrah” before Lent
begins. That’s why revelry in New Orleans reaches a fever pitch before the army of street sweepers makes their way through the city at the stroke of midnight. Party now and prepare to fast come Ash Wednesday.
You don’t have to travel to New Orleans to celebrate Mardi Gras style. You just need a few good recipes, some choice ingredients, and some friends to share in the fun. Here are our suggestions:
The Hurricane, made popular by New Orleans hotspot, Pat O’Brien’s, is a Mardi Gras classic. The rum-based cocktail takes its name from the Hurricane glasses in which it’s served.
Ingredients:
Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice, and strain into a Hurricane glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cherry and an orange slice.
This is a New Orleans original that claims to be the oldest American cocktail, dating back to pre-civil war era. Whisky, bitters and a lot of love go into this classic.
Ingredients
Pack an old-fashioned glass with ice. In a second old-fashioned glass, place the sugar cube and add the Peychaud's Bitters to it, then crush the sugar cube. Add the Sazerac Rye Whiskey or Buffalo Trace Bourbon to the second glass containing the Peychaud's Bitters and sugar. Empty the ice from the first glass and coat the glass with the Herbsaint, then discard the remaining Herbsaint. Empty the whiskey/bitters/sugar mixture from the second glass into the first glass, and garnish with lemon peel.
New Orleans is home to many unique traditions including drive-through daiquiri shops (for passengers only). The Travel Channel’s Anthony Bourdain drove through a shop when he was in New Orleans, but you can enjoy a stay-at-home daiquiri by mixing up this tasty recipe.
Ingredients:
Pour rum and lime juice into blender container. Add sugar and whirl to dissolve.
Drop frozen berries into blender container, a few at a time, blending until smooth.
Pour into chilled glasses. Cheers!
For more Mardi Gras cocktail recipes, check out this site dedicated to all things New Orleans.
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