Hand Grenade (cocktail)

Hand Grenade (Cocktail)

The Hand Grenade is a popular cocktail that originated in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is known for its vibrant green color and potent mix of spirits. In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, and preparation of the Hand Grenade cocktail.

History

The Hand Grenade cocktail was first created in the 1980s by Earl Bernhardt and Pam Fortner, the founders of the Tropical Isle bar in New Orleans. The drink quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike, becoming a staple of the city's vibrant nightlife.

Ingredients

The Hand Grenade cocktail is made using the following ingredients:

• 1 ounce of vodka
• 1 ounce of rum
• 1 ounce of gin
• 1 ounce of melon liqueur
• 1 ounce of grain alcohol
• 2 ounces of sweet and sour mix

Preparation

To prepare a Hand Grenade cocktail, follow these steps:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, rum, gin, melon liqueur, grain alcohol, and sweet and sour mix to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds to ensure proper mixing.
4. Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a slice of lime or a cherry, if desired.

Serving

The Hand Grenade cocktail is typically served in a tall glass, such as a hurricane glass or a Collins glass. It is often garnished with a slice of lime or a cherry for added visual appeal.

Variations

While the classic Hand Grenade cocktail recipe remains popular, there are also variations that incorporate different flavors or ingredients. Some common variations include:

• Tropical Hand Grenade: This variation adds pineapple juice to the mix, giving the cocktail a tropical twist.
• Blue Hand Grenade: By substituting the melon liqueur with blue curaçao, this variation creates a vibrant blue-colored cocktail.

Cultural References

The Hand Grenade cocktail has become synonymous with the city of New Orleans and is often associated with the city's vibrant party scene. It has been featured in various movies, TV shows, and songs that depict the lively atmosphere of the city.

See Also

• New Orleans
• Cocktail
• Tropical Isle

References

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  Hand Grenade (cocktail)