Mardi Gras Kiss

More About This Recipe

• If you can’t make it down to New Orleans to celebrate Fat Tuesday, then bring a little bit of NOLA to you with a few drinks inspired by the notorious shindig. Mardi Gras is the last big indulgent celebration before Lent—so whether you’re looking to go into your fasting period with a bang or just enjoy the festive colors and sparkly beads associated with the party, below are some drinks that will surely make your Mardi Gras one to remember (as long as you don’t drink too many…)!
• The first libation was actually developed by a bartender down in New Orleans, so you know it’s legit. The Flambeaux Mambo is the concoction of Lu Brow, and it includes two ingredients that pay homage to the Big Easy’s Southern roots. The hooch in the beverage is Southern Comfort and the fire comes from Tabasco sauce. Don’t be put off by a little heat—the other ingredients are quite sweet, so this a good mix of sugar and spice. You can describe Mardi Gras in the same way.
• SoCo not your style? How about a little rum? It’s fitting to use this spirit, which is connected to NOLA due to the city’s Caribbean roots. Pair the Mardi Gras Kiss with some Creole cooking and you’ll see why so many folks are totally into the region’s cuisine. Brugal Rum comes from the Dominican Republic, and for this little ditty it’s mixed with pineapple juice for tropical flair and Amaretto liqueur for balance. Mix up a few of these for your guests, and they will thank you by giving you the universal currency of the holiday—beads.
• If you want to keep it classic, just mix yourself the drink that is mostly closely identified with New Orleans (it was invented there in the 1800s). The Sazerac is boozy, bold and flavorful. Check out the recipe and remember that this one is a doozie. While you might be able to down a few of the cocktails mentioned above, you should probably only have one of these if you want to avoid turning Fat Tuesday into Hangover Wednesday.