Flaming Sambuca Recipe

Flaming Sambuca Nutrition Facts

Calories:150

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:11g

Alcohol %:42

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Flaming Sambuca is a popular party drink that is known for its dramatic presentation. The drink is typically served in a shot glass and set on fire before drinking. The Sambuca itself is an Italian anise-flavored liqueur that is usually colorless, but can also be deep blue (Sambuca Black) or bright red (Sambuca Red). The flaming aspect of the drink is said to enhance the flavors of the Sambuca, making it a favorite among those who enjoy strong, flavorful drinks.

How Flaming Sambuca Tastes?

The Flaming Sambuca has a strong, sweet, and slightly spicy taste. The anise flavor of the Sambuca is prominent, with a hint of licorice. The flaming process gives the drink a warm, slightly smoky flavor.

Interesting facts about Flaming Sambuca

  • The Flaming Sambuca is often served with three coffee beans, representing health, happiness, and prosperity.
  • The drink is typically consumed in one gulp after being set on fire.
  • The Sambuca used in this drink is often over 40% alcohol, making it a very strong drink.

Ingredients

  • Sambuca: 1.5 oz(45ml)
  • Coffee beans: 3

Sambuca

Use: 1.5 oz Sambuca, an Italian anise-flavoured liqueur, is the star of this show. It's sweet and has a licorice taste that's magnified when set aflame. Stick with the 1.5 oz to keep it just enough to ignite without turning your bar into a fire show. Going overboard? You lose your eyebrows. Skimping? You lose the drama.

Mary Mitkina

Coffee Beans

Use: 3 beans The coffee beans are not just a garnish; they represent health, wealth, and happiness. Plus, they add a subtle roasted flavor. Skip them, and you might as well call it a half-hearted shot. Swop them for chocolate covered espresso beans, and the transition between the shot and a sweet treat is smoother than a jazz sax solo.

Emma Rose

Recipe. How to make Flaming Sambuca Drink

  1. Pour the Sambuca into a shot glass.
  2. Add three coffee beans to the glass.
  3. Set the Sambuca on fire and let it burn for a few seconds.
  4. Extinguish the flame and drink in one gulp.

Pro Tips

  • Be careful when setting the Sambuca on fire. Make sure to extinguish the flame before drinking.
  • The coffee beans are traditionally chewed after drinking the Sambuca for a burst of flavor.
  • For a cooler flame, you can chill the Sambuca before serving.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

  • Cheese Plate: A selection of rich and creamy cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, or Gorgonzola balance the strong anise flavor of Sambuca.
  • Chocolate Desserts: The subtle hints of licorice in Sambuca complement the sweetness of dark chocolate, making for a delightful end to a meal.
  • Nutty Pastries: Almond croissants or pistachio cookies pair well, echoing the shot's coffee bean garnish.

Drink Pairings

  • Espresso: A strong espresso can follow the shot to continue the coffee flavor journey.
  • Amaretto: For a sweeter palate, an Amaretto on the side provides a nice contrast to the Sambuca's stronger flavors.

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What you could change in Flaming Sambuca

  • If you don't have Sambuca, you can substitute it with another anise-flavored liqueur like Ouzo or Absinthe.
  • If you don't have coffee beans, you can skip them. They are more for presentation and a slight flavor enhancement.

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And of course - twists🍹

The Blue Flame

Ingredients: 1.5 oz Blue Sambuca, 3 Coffee Beans Recipe: Use Blue Sambuca for a different visual flair. The flavor is similar, but the brilliant blue provides a stunning contrast to the usual fiery orange.

The Minty Touch

Ingredients: 1.5 oz Sambuca, 3 Fresh Mint Leaves Recipe: Add mint leaves instead of coffee beans. Light it up, and when you blow it out, the fresh mint aroma will cool the senses in a ripple of freshness.

Cinnamon Spark

Ingredients: 1.5 oz Sambuca, 1 Cinnamon Stick Recipe: Instead of coffee beans, use a cinnamon stick. Light it, watch the sparks fly, and enjoy the warm, spicy notes it adds to the Sambuca.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Flaming Sambuca

What is the best type of sambuca to use for a Flaming Sambuca?

It is recommended to use a high-quality clear Sambuca for the best flavor. However, you can use black or red Sambuca for a different taste and presentation.

Is Flaming Sambuca safe to drink?

Yes, provided the flame is properly extinguished before drinking. Never attempt to drink a flaming cocktail without extinguishing the flame first.

What other cocktails can I make with Sambuca?

Sambuca can be used to make various cocktails such as Sambuca Sour, Mediterraneo, and Black Jack, among others.

Why is there a tradition of setting Sambuca on fire?

Setting Sambuca on fire is said to enhance its flavors. It adds a warm and slightly smoky touch to the drink.

Can I prepare a Flaming Sambuca without a shot glass?

Yes, you can use any glass that can endure heat, but the traditional way of serving Flaming Sambuca is a shot glass.

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