A Guide to Perfect Alcoholic Complements for Traditional Indian Wedding Delicacies

Elevating the sensory experience of a traditional Indian wedding goes beyond vibrant decor and festive music—it extends to the harmonious pairing of alcoholic beverages with the rich tapestry of flavors in the culinary spread. Traditional Indian wedding cuisine, known for its diverse and aromatic dishes, offers a delightful challenge and opportunity for perfect pairings. From the intricate spices of biryanis to the savory delights of kebabs, each dish presents a unique palette for complementing wines, spirits, and cocktails. The art of pairing involves balancing the robust notes of Indian spices with the nuanced profiles of beverages, enhancing the overall gastronomic celebration. In this fusion of tradition and innovation, the right pairing not only elevates the dining experience but also adds a memorable and sophisticated dimension to the joyous union of two souls.

Devil’s Tamarind KickPairing: Chicken Biryani

Description: A fusion of the classic Old Fashioned with Indian flavours, this cocktail combines the warmth of Lucifer’s Gold whisky with the tangy kick of spiced tamarind.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Lucifer’s Gold

• 1/2 oz Spiced Tamarind Syrup

• Dash of Angostura bitters

• Orange peel (Garnish)

Method:

1. In a mixing glass, combine Lucifer’s Gold whisky, spiced tamarind syrup, and bitters.

2. Add ice and stir until well-chilled.

3. Strain the mixture into a glass over a large ice cube.

4. Express the orange peel over the glass and drop it as garnish.

Berry BreezePairing: Chicken Tikka Masala

Description: A fruity and refreshing vodka cocktail featuring the sweetness of mixed berries, creating a delightful contrast to the bold flavours of Chicken Tikka Masala.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Russian Standard Vodka

• 1 oz Cranberry Juice

• 1/2 oz Simple Syrup

• Handful of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

• Ice cubes

Method:

1. In a shaker, muddle the mixed berries.

2. Add Russian Standard Vodka, cranberry juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.

3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.

4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.

Mango Margarita

Pairing: Fish Curry

Description: Embrace the vibrant flavours of India with this spicy and fruity margarita. The sweet mango balances the heat from the chilli, creating a perfect match for a zesty fish curry.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Jose Cuervo Especial Silver Tequila

• 1 oz Cointreau

• 1 oz Fresh Mango Puree

• 1/2 oz Lime Juice

• Dash of chilli powder for rimming

Method:

1. Rim a glass with chilli powder by wetting the rim with a lime wedge and dipping it in powder.

2. In a shaker, combine Jose Cuervo Especial Silver Tequila, Cointreau, mango puree, and lime juice with ice.

3. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass over ice.

Coconut Curry EclipsePairing: Lamb Korma

Description: Transport your taste buds to the tropics with a coconut curry colada. The creamy coconut and pineapple perfectly complement the richness of Lamb Korma.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva Rum

• 2 oz Coconut Cream

• 3 oz Pineapple Juice

• 1 oz Curry Syrup

• Lime wedge and curry powder for garnish

Method:

1. In a blender, combine Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva Rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and curry syrup with ice.

2. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Pour into a chilled glass and garnish with a pineapple wedge dusted with curry powder.