Green Fairy Cocktail Recipe
Green Fairy Nutrition Facts
Calories:160
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:4g
Alcohol %:29
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
Contents
History
The Green Fairy is a cocktail that's as mystical as its name. It's primarily made with absinthe, a spirit known for its vibrant green color and high alcohol content. The cocktail was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially among artists and writers who believed it stimulated creativity. It's a strong, potent drink, perfect for those who appreciate the unique flavor of absinthe.
How Green Fairy Tastes?
The Green Fairy is a complex cocktail with a strong, herbal flavor. It's slightly bitter due to the absinthe, but the addition of sugar and water helps to balance it out. The cocktail also has a hint of anise, giving it a refreshing, licorice-like taste.
Interesting facts about Green Fairy
- The Green Fairy is often associated with the Bohemian culture of late 19th-century Paris.
- The cocktail gets its name from the French 'La Fée Verte', which translates to 'The Green Fairy'.
- Absinthe, the main ingredient in the Green Fairy, was banned in many countries in the early 20th century due to its supposed hallucinogenic properties.
Ingredients
Absinthe
Absinthe, the star of this show, has a high alcohol content and a potent flavor profile dominated by anise and herbal botanicals. The 1.5 oz serving is just enough to provide the characteristic kick without overwhelming the palate. If you use more, you might end up with a drink too strong to enjoy; use less, and you'll lose the essence of the Green Fairy. No real alternatives here, as absinthe's unique flavor is irreplaceable in this cocktail.
Alex Green
Sugar
Sugar cuts through the bitterness and the heat of absinthe, with one cube being sufficient to balance the drink without making it overly sweet. Using too much sugar could overpower the subtle notes of the absinthe, while omitting it entirely could result in a harsh and less approachable drink. Other sweeteners like honey or agave could be used, but they would bring their own flavors and potentially alter the classic character of the cocktail.
Emma Rose
Water
Water serves to dilute and 'louche' the absinthe, turning it into a milky, opalescent mixture and mellowing its intensity. Two ounces is ideal for achieving the desired dilution and texture. Too much water, and the cocktail becomes too weak; too little, and the absinthe may be too strong. Ice water is the traditional choice, but using chilled still water is also acceptable.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Green Fairy Drink
- Pour the absinthe into a glass.
- Place the sugar cube on a spoon and rest it on the rim of the glass.
- Slowly pour the water over the sugar cube, allowing it to dissolve into the absinthe.
- Stir gently and serve.
Pro Tips
- Use cold water to help dissolve the sugar cube.
- Pour the water slowly to maintain the cloudy appearance of the cocktail.
- Serve in a traditional absinthe glass for an authentic experience.
Perfect Pairings
Food Pairings
- Cheese: A variety of cheeses, particularly strong flavored ones like blue cheese or aged cheddar, balances the strong taste of absinthe.
- Seafood: Oysters or other shellfish complement the herbaceous notes of the Green Fairy.
- Chocolate: Dark chocolate is a classic pairing, as its bitterness interacts favorably with the anise and herbal qualities.
Drink Pairings
- Coffee: A shot of cold espresso on the side can contrast the sweetness and enhance the bitter notes.
- Sparkling Water: For a palate cleanser in between sips, sparkling water is excellent.
- Herbal Tea: A fresh brew of mint or chamomile can harmonize with the botanicals of absinthe.
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What you could change in Green Fairy
If you can't find absinthe, you can substitute it with pastis or anisette. However, keep in mind that these substitutions will slightly alter the taste of the cocktail.
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Black Fairy
- Substitute traditional absinthe with a black absinthe.
- Follow the original recipe steps with this darker, more intense spirit.
- The Black Fairy delivers a bolder flavor and a darkly intriguing color to the cocktail.
Green Fairy with a Sparkle
- Using sparkling water instead of still water.
- Proceed as per the original recipe.
- Adds effervescence that lightens the drink and gives a more refreshing mouth-feel.
Citrus Fairy
- Add a twist of lemon peel to the drink after stirring.
- Follow the original recipe with this simple addition.
- The citrus oils offer a bright, fresh aroma that nicely contrasts with the absinthe's herbal notes.
In case you forgot basics how to make Green Fairy
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Green Fairy
What is the reason behind absinthe's vivid green color?
Absinthe gets its distinctive green color from the herbs that are used during its production process. These herbs include green anise, sweet fennel, and various other herbs.
Does absinthe really have hallucinogenic properties?
This is a common myth. Absinthe does not have hallucinogenic properties; its psychoactive effects were likely exaggerated.
What is the reason behind the ritual of sugar and water dilution for an absinthe-based drink?
The water and sugar dilution process, otherwise known as the absinthe ritual, mellows the potentially bitter taste of the spirit and blurs the liqueur to create a characteristic 'louche' effect.
Is there any specific season or occasion in which Green Fairy Cocktail is popularly served?
While there's no specific season or occasion for serving the Green Fairy, some people associate it with Mardi Gras or adventurous nightime gatherings due to its high alcohol content and unique presentation.
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