Empellón Cocina's Fat-Washed Mezcal
Illustration generated by AI from the recipe’s glass, ice and garnish — not a photograph of a real pour.
- Method: shake
- Glass: Beer Glass
- Ice: Ice in the shaker.
- Garnish: 5 drops of habanero tincture.
- ABV: 25%
Ingredients
- Mezcal — 2 oz (60 ml)
- Chocolate liqueur — ¾ oz (22.5 ml)
- Kahlua — ½ oz (15 ml)
How to make it
- Combine mezcal and chocolate liqueur in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir for 45 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe.
- Carefully 'sink' the coffee liqueur down the inside of the coupe over a spoon.
- Garnish with 5 drops of habanero tincture.
This cocktail combines the rich flavor of mezcal with chocolate liqueur and a hint of heat from habanero.
The story
The Fat-Washed Mezcal originated from Empellón Cocina in New York City, where chefs and bartenders began experimenting with fat-washing techniques to infuse spirits with rich flavors. This method, which involves mixing spirits with fat and then straining it, gained popularity for its unique ability to enhance the complexity of cocktails, making it a staple in modern mixology.
How it tastes
The Fat-Washed Mezcal offers a smoky, rich flavor profile from the mezcal, complemented by the sweetness of chocolate liqueur and the coffee notes from Kahlua. The habanero tincture adds a subtle heat, making it an intriguing choice for after-dinner cocktails or special occasions.
Getting it right
The key to this cocktail is the fat-washing process, which requires careful blending and straining to achieve a smooth texture without greasy residue. Properly layering the Kahlua ensures a visually appealing presentation and distinct flavor separation.
Variations
- Fat-Washed Bourbon — Substituting mezcal with bourbon creates a different flavor profile, retaining the richness while adding notes of vanilla and caramel.
- Spicy Chocolate Martini — Using vodka instead of mezcal, this variation focuses on the chocolate and spice elements, making it a smoother option.
Substitutions
- Mezcal — If mezcal is unavailable, a good-quality tequila can be used for a similar but less smoky flavor.
- Chocolate Liqueur — Dark chocolate syrup can be used as a substitute for chocolate liqueur, though it may alter the sweetness level.
Questions
- What is fat-washing?
- Fat-washing is a technique where fat is infused into a spirit, then solidified and removed, leaving behind a rich flavor without the greasiness.
- Can I make this cocktail without the habanero tincture?
- Yes, you can omit the habanero tincture if you prefer a milder drink, though it will lose some of its unique spicy character.
- What glass should I use for serving?
- This cocktail is best served in a chilled coupe glass to enhance its presentation and maintain the desired temperature.
This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.
Updated
Same Base
Same Method
Same Glass
Popular
Alphabetical
Tequila · Shake · A-Z: E · Catalog