As the winter chill sets in, it's the perfect time to explore warm drink recipes that go beyond the usual hot chocolate and mulled wine. Using your BBQ, pizza oven, or kamado, you can add a delightful twist to classic cocktails, mocktails, and coffee shop favourites. Letโs dive into how these appliances can transform your winter dinner ideas and cocktail hour into an extraordinary experience. ๐น๐ฅ
BBQ-Infused Irish Coffee:
Irish coffee, traditionally a blend of hot coffee, Irish whiskey, and cream, can take on a new character when ingredients are warmed on a BBQ. Hereโs how: First, gently heat your whiskey on the grill, careful not to let it boil. Then, brew a strong coffee - consider using your BBQ roasted beans for added flavour. Combine these with a touch of sugar, and top with cream thatโs been lightly warmed on the grill, offering a delightful smoky creaminess. ๐ซ๐ฎ๐ช
Hot Toddy with a Smoky Touch:
A hot toddy, known for its comforting blend of hot water, honey, lemon, and whiskey, becomes even more intriguing with a BBQ infusion. Start by grilling lemon halves until they're caramelised, and then squeeze these into your toddy mix. Warm the mixture on the BBQ or in your pizza oven, allowing the smoky air to infuse subtly into the drink. ๐ฅ๐ฏ
Warmed Snowball Drink:
The snowball drink, a creamy concoction typically made with advocaat and lemonade, can be given a festive twist using your outdoor cooking appliance. Warm your advocaat gently, careful to stir continuously to avoid curdling. This method gives the drink a gentle smokiness, complementing its rich flavour. ๐โ๏ธ
Smoky Sangria:
Transform the classic sangria into a BBQ christmas cocktail by incorporating grilled fruits. Grill slices of oranges, lemons, and apples on your BBQ, then mix these with red wine, a splash of brandy, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. The grilling process intensifies the fruits' sweetness and adds a smoky undertone. ๐ท๐
Grilled Fruit Mocktails:
For mocktails, grilling fruits can add a new layer of flavour. For a smoky pina colada mocktail, grill pineapple slices before blending them with coconut milk and ice. Similarly, for a mai tai mocktail, grill orange and lime slices to incorporate into the drink, adding a rich, caramelised flavour. ๐ฅฅ๐
Cocoa Bar:
Set up your own hot chocolate station near your BBQ, pizza oven, or kamado oven. Prepare a classic hot cocoa and offer a variety of toppings such as marshmallows, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings. For an adult twist, add a ginger shot, a splash of whiskey or some Baileys to the hot chocolate, lightly warmed on the grill for added warmth and depth. โ๏ธ๐ซ
This winter, let your BBQ, pizza oven, and kamado inspire you to reinvent traditional winter drinks. From smoky hot cocktails to innovative mocktails, these outdoor appliances can transform your winter evenings into a festive and flavourful experience. So gather around the warmth of your outdoor kitchen and enjoy these unique, heartwarming beverages. ๐งก๐ฅฐ
And if you're looking for the perfect food pairings for these drink ideas, don't forget to check out the other posts in our AOS Community forum. You'll find an array of recipes and dinner ideas that perfectly complement these drinks, ensuring your winter gatherings are both delicious and memorable. ๐ฅ๐
Moreover, our forum is brimming with creative tips on how to dress your outdoor kitchen or outdoor cooking area for the winter season. Discover ideas to make your space warm, inviting, and perfect for gatherings with family and friends duirng this festive season. From decor to lighting, we have everything you need to create a magical outdoor ambiance. ๐๐ฏ๏ธ
Have you tried any of these drink recipes? Do you have your own winter drink concoctions that you swear by? Or maybe some tips on decorating outdoor spaces for winter? Share your opinions and ideas in the comments. Your experiences can inspire others, and together we can make this winter season exceptionally special and delicious! ๐ฃ๐ฌ
ย Let the winter grill magic begin,
Team AOS