Flaming Blue Jesus Cocktail Recipe

The Flaming Blue Jesus is a cocktail that's as intense as its name suggests. Known for its fiery presentation and potent combination of spirits, it's a favorite among thrill-seekers and party-goers.

• Origins: While the exact origins are murky, it's believed to have been created in the American bar scene as a daring shooter.
• Popularity: It gained notoriety in the 1980s and 1990s, often served in bars looking to add some spectacle to their drink offerings.
• Audience: This drink is best suited for those who enjoy a strong, bold cocktail and aren't afraid of a little fire in their drinking experience.

The Flaming Blue Jesus is a potent mix with a complex flavor profile. It's strong and warming, with a peppermint freshness that cuts through the richness of the Southern Comfort and the sharpness of the vodka and tequila. The fiery element adds a smoky note if you let it burn just a bit before blowing it out.

• The cocktail's name is a nod to its bold nature and the 'divine' experience some claim it provides.
• The blue flame is due to the alcohol content in the 151 proof rum, which burns with a blue hue.
• It's often served as a challenge or a rite of passage in some party circles.

1. In a shot glass, carefully layer the Southern Comfort, vodka, peppermint schnapps, and tequila.
2. Gently pour the 151 proof rum on top.
3. Ignite the rum with a lighter and let it burn for 5 seconds.
4. Blow out the flame and serve immediately.

• Layering: Pour each layer slowly over the back of a spoon to achieve distinct layers.
• Safety First: Always use a heat-resistant glass and be cautious when lighting the drink.
• Serving: Serve with a straw to avoid sipping the still-warm top layer.

Food Pairings

• Salty snacks: The strong flavors of the Flaming Blue Jesus cocktail can be complemented by simple salty snacks such as nuts or pretzels. These can help absorb some of the alcohol and offer a basic canvas for the complex flavors of the drink to shine.
• Fried appetizers: Items such as fried pickles or jalapeño poppers provide a crispy texture and spiciness that can stand up to the potent mix of spirits in the cocktail.

Drink Pairings

• Water: Between these fiery shots, it’s wise to keep hydrated. Plain water can cleanse the palate and reduce the chances of a hangover.
• Light beer: A light, crisp beer can balance the intensity of the cocktail, acting as a refreshing chaser.

Dessert Pairings

• Dark chocolate: The bitterness of dark chocolate can be a pleasant contrast to the sweet and minty elements of the drink.

• Southern Comfort: You can substitute with another peach liqueur or bourbon for a similar flavor profile.
• 151 Proof Rum: If it's too strong, use a lower proof rum or overproof rum that's available to you, but be cautious as it may not ignite.

Twist 1: Flaming Green Elf

• Replace Peppermint Schnapps with Green Chartreuse.
• Use 1oz of Vodka to amplify the herbal notes.

Recipe: Layer the spirits as before, but top with Green Chartreuse before igniting. This twist will give an herbaceous kick and a greener flame, turning your cocktail into a mystical potion from the forest.

Twist 2: Flaming Berry Jesus

• Substitute Southern Comfort with Chambord.
• Keep the quantity of Vodka and Schnapps the same.

Recipe: Start by layering the Chambord, followed by vodka, peppermint schnapps, and tequila. The top-off and ignition step remains the same. This change will infuse your drink with a berry twist, for a fruiter, less spicy experience.

Twist 3: Flaming Gold Saint

• Swap out Southern Comfort for Goldschläger.
• Use equal parts of all ingredients (0.5oz each) except for the 151 proof rum.

Recipe: Combine the Goldschläger, vodka, peppermint schnapps, and tequila in layers. Top with the rum and light it on fire. The gold flakes in the Goldschläger will make your drink glisten and add a cinnamon spice, blessing your taste buds with a divine experience.