The daiquiri is one of my favorite classic cocktails, although I admit that there are many that I like. One of the best things about a daiquiri is its short ingredient list of rum, lime juice and simple syrup. That trio of ingredients yields a surprisingly complex drink and, as is the case with many simple recipes, it is a great base for a little experimentation. Since we’re in the middle of citrus season, I have a bounty of citrus (in addition to limes) that need to be used up. After a little R&D, I put together a Blood Orange Daiquiri that is going to be featured regularly in my kitchen as long as I can get my hands on fresh blood oranges.
Reading through the ingredients, you’ll notice that the only difference between this drink and the classic daiquiri is the addition of blood orange juice to the mix. Blood oranges are known for their natural sweetness and that really comes through here. Though orange juice is acidic and it seems like the combination of orange and lime might make the drink too tart, this combination really works. The cocktail is delicious, especially if you’re a citrus fan. The orange is balanced by just the right amount of lime juice to keep it from being too sweet, though the natural sweetness of the blood orange shines through in every sip. It’s very refreshing, ideal for both a happy hour drink and a brunch cocktail!
I garnished this with a little orange twist, but a small wedge of orange or lime could also be used. If you don’t have blood oranges available, cara cara oranges are a good substitute, though they don’t typically have quite as much color as blood oranges do. Other varieties of orange are not as sweet as these two, so just wait until they are in season and easily available before making up a batch of these.
Blood Orange Daiquiri
1 1/2 oz white rum
3/4 oz lime juice
3/4 oz blood orange juice
3/4 oz simple syrup
Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker or mixing glass. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 5-10 seconds, then strain into a coupe glass to serve.
Sue
February 17, 2017What do you recommend for a white rum?
Nicole
February 17, 2017Cana Brava is one of my favorite, all-purpose white rums. It was designed to be a perfect mixing rum for bartenders, so it works well in just about every cocktail. El Dorado and Flor de Cana are also nice rums. Bacardi will still make a fine version of this drink, but I prefer the others if I have them! Great question.
–Nicole