When I was in San Francisco last fall for Foodbuzz Festival, I went with some of my best buds to Cantina for pre-party drinks. The evening was predictably chilly, but a little cold weather will never stop lovely ladies from wearing their best party dresses. So naturally, when we were huddled over the drink menu perusing the options, I was craving something with a little warmth. I didn't want an actual hot beverage, but something with a little spice... some kick that would warm me from the inside-out. As luck would have it, my eyes landed on the Laughing Buddha: hangar one buddha’s hand vodka, lime, crushed ginger & serrano chiles, ginger brew.
Yes, that was the drink I wanted.
It was cool and spicy all at the same time, but best part was that there was a distinct spice from the ginger and ginger brew that was totally different than the heat from the serrano chile. The chile was like an aftershock of warmth that surprised you with each sip. It was amazing, and I haven't stopped thinking about it since.
After the new year, I decided I needed to stop thinking about this cocktail and try to recreate it at home. Being a cocktail beginner, I wasn't totally sure about two of the ingredients - the buddha's hand vodka, and the ginger brew - so I did a little researching on the internet. Turns out the buddha's hand vodka is made with none other Buddha's Hand citrus (surprise, surprise), which has an appearance that is both intriguing and terrifying, but a taste that is extremely fragrant. Next, I found that the ginger brew is an all-natural soda made with roots and spices. Fantastic! The ginger brew that seemed to be the most popular was REED's, and I thrilled to discover that I could pick some up at my local Henry's.
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