My late grandpa’s favorite cocktail was an Old Fashioned. I have many fond memories of him in the kitchen at our annual Christmas Eve get togethers prepping dinner and making Old Fashioneds for all the adults.
This rendition of the classic cocktail is one of my favorites. It’s infused with cherry and cardamom, two flavors that pair perfectly with whiskey.
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) is a delicious spice that is a popular ingredient in Indian, Middle Eastern, Arabic, and Swedish cuisine. It’s flavor is complex, warm, and spicy. The taste is difficult to describe but some say it is smoky, peppery, & fruity with notes of pine, eucalyptus, & menthol.
Cardamom is a lovely addition to beverages. And it pairs well with a number of fruits, including cherries. The two come together wonderfully in this unique and tasty cocktail. Since cherry season coincides with the holidays here in Ecuador, I’ll be enjoying a Cherry Cardamom Old Fashioned (or two) in memory of my grandpa this holiday season.
To make a Cherry Cardamom Old Fashioned, you’ll first need to make an infused simple syrup. Once the syrup is made, it’s quick and easy to make the individual cocktails. If you have leftover syrup, it’s also a delicious addition to sparkling water or drizzled over vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from heat and cover.
- Let cool and then strain out the cherries & cardamom.
- Bottle the syrup and store in the refrigerator.
- Pour the whiskey, syrup, and bitters into a glass and gently swirl to combine. Add a big ice cube and enjoy!
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