It’s been said that mixologists are the chefs of the bar. And just as culinary combinations can inspire cocktails, with a little creativity the flavors of a balanced drink can be used in plated applications. A curry with pineapple and coconut milk is essentially a dinner-ized piña colada, after all. Because alcohol evaporates more quickly than water (due to its lower boiling temperature), cooking with hard liquor can give as much complexity as wine or vermouth with no “boozy” taste (try deglazing pans with Cognac, brandy or rum). Here, the flavors of a margarita, gin and tonic, Sazerac and mojito inspire some delicious dishes.
4 Dishes Inspired by Classic Cocktails
Oysters with Margarita Mignonette
With sweet citrus notes of lime and subtle savoriness from tequila, this margarita-inspired mignonette pairs perfectly with briny oysters.
Get the Recipe: These Citrusy Oysters Are Inspired by a Classic Margarita
“Gin and Tonic” Kampachi Crudo
Inspired by the gin and tonic, this elegant appetizer highlights Japanese kampachi (also known as yellowtail) with edgy flavors of tart lemon and peppery radish.
Get the Recipe: A Kampachi Crudo for Gin and Tonic Aficionados
Juicy Sazerac Glazed Pork Chops
With a velvety butter sauce inspired by the famed New Orleans cocktail, the Sazerac, this Cajun-inflected dish is a perfect pair for Pinot Noir.
Get the Recipe: These Sazerac-Inspired Glazed Pork Chops Are All About Bold Cajun Flavor
Lamb Scottadito alla Mojito
The bright mojito-inspired pan sauce in this recipe both cuts through the rich, juicy meat and riffs on the classic pairing of lamb and mint.
Get the Recipe: Mojito-Style Lamb Scottadito Is a Rum-Spiked Take on an Italian Classic
This article originally appeared in the April 2023 issue of Wine Enthusiast magazine. Click here to subscribe today!
Last Updated: June 6, 2023
