Hair Of The Dog Cocktail Recipe
Hair Of The Dog Nutrition Facts
Calories:150
Fat:0g
Protein:1g
Carbohydrates:10g
Alcohol %:20%
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 Hair Of The Dog cocktail is a classic hangover cure, hence the name. It's believed to have originated in the 16th century, with the phrase 'hair of the dog that bit you' meaning to cure a hangover with more alcohol. It's a favorite among those who enjoy a strong, robust cocktail.
- Origin: 16th century
- Ideal for: Hangover cure
- Strength: Strong
How Hair Of The Dog Tastes?
The Hair Of The Dog cocktail is a strong, robust drink with a spicy kick. It's tangy, savory, and slightly sweet, with a rich, full-bodied flavor that lingers on the palate.
Interesting facts about Hair Of The Dog
- The Hair Of The Dog cocktail is often used as a hangover cure.
- The phrase 'hair of the dog' comes from an old belief that you could cure a dog bite with the hair of the dog that bit you.
- Despite its strong flavor, the Hair Of The Dog cocktail is surprisingly easy to drink.
Ingredients
- Bourbon: 2 oz(60ml)
- Tomato juice: 4 oz(120ml)
- Lemon juice: 1 oz(30ml)
- Worcestershire sauce: 2 dashes
- Tabasco: 2 dashes
- Salt: 1 pinch
- Pepper: 1 pinch
- Celery stalk: 1 (for garnish)
Bourbon
The rich, smoky flavor of bourbon lays the foundation for this cocktail, adding depth and warmth. If you skimp on the bourbon, the drink loses its kick, whereas too much can overpower the other flavors. A whiskey could be used as an alternative, contributing a slightly different flavor profile depending on the variety.
Alex Green
Tomato Juice
Tomato juice adds body and a tangy, savory base that's essential to the cocktail's character. Not enough, and the drink is too boozy; too much, and it's like sipping a spiked V8. No juice? You've missed the 'tomato' in this cocktail's BLT.
Mary Mitkina
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice brings a freshness and acidity that balances the richness of the tomato and bourbon. Without it, the cocktail might feel flat. Lime juice could work in a pinch, adding a slightly more tropical twist.
Emma Rose
Worcestershire Sauce
It's the umami bomb! This sauce adds complexity and depth with its fermented tanginess. Leaving it out robs the drink of part of its savory soul. A soy sauce could be a less complex substitute, but don't overdo it!
Alex Green
Tabasco
Heat alert! Tabasco brings the spice that wakes you up and cuts through the other dense ingredients. Too timid with Tabasco, and the drink becomes a gentle giant. No Tabasco? Try a pinch of cayenne pepper or a different hot sauce for a change of fiery scenery.
Mary Mitkina
Salt
The pinch of salt is the subtle enhancer, rounding out flavors and bridging ingredients. It's small but mighty; forget the salt, and the flavors might not sing in harmony. Kosher or sea salt could be used for a slightly different mineral note.
Emma Rose
Pepper
The bite of the pepper adds a slight heat and complements the other spices. Without it, you lose a layer of complexity. Try smoked paprika for a smoky kick, if you're out of pepper.
Alex Green
Celery Stalk
Not only does it add a visually appealing garnish, but the celery stalk also offers a crunchy, refreshing palate cleanser. No stalk? A pickle spear could add a zesty crunch in its stead.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Hair Of The Dog Drink
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add the bourbon, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, salt, and pepper.
- Shake well.
- Strain into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a celery stalk.
Pro Tips
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Tabasco and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Deviled Eggs: The creamy texture and the mustard spice complement the robust flavors of the cocktail.
- Fried Calamari: Its crispy texture and light taste balance the drink's heartiness.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms pair well with the savory notes of the cocktail.
Main Courses
- Burgers: A classic American burger matches the boldness of the bourbon and acidity of the tomato juice.
- Grilled Steaks: The richness of a grilled steak goes hand-in-hand with the spicy and savory cocktail.
- Breakfast Foods: Since this cocktail is a classic hangover remedy, pairing it with breakfast items like omelets or bacon and eggs can be quite satisfying.
Snacks
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can balance the savory aspects of the cocktail.
- Nuts: Especially spiced or salty, nuts provide a crunchy contrast to the liquid refreshment.
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
- Iced Tea: A refreshing palate cleanser between sips.
- Coffee: As an alternative pick-me-up, coffee's bitterness can act as a counterpoint to the cocktail's richness.
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What you could change in Hair Of The Dog
- Bourbon can be substituted with vodka or gin.
- Tomato juice can be substituted with V8 or Bloody Mary mix.
Explore all drinks starting with H here
And of course - twists🍹
The Southern Mary
Substitute the bourbon with Southern Comfort for a sweeter, peach-flavored undertone. This twist offers a lighter, fruitier take that could appeal to those who find the original a bit too bracing.
The Green Dog
Swap out the tomato juice for tomatillo-based green juice, adding slices of jalapeño for garnish. The Green Dog is zestier and has an herby, spicy kick, ideal for adventurous palates.
The Canine Fizz
After shaking the original ingredients, top the glass with club soda for a fizzy finish. The effervescence of the Canine Fizz makes for a lighter drinking experience, perfect for a brunch twist.
In case you forgot basics how to make Hair Of The Dog
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
Learn everything on garnishingFind the cocktail you'd love!
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Frequently Asked Questions on Hair Of The Dog
What is the best type of bourbon to use in the Hair Of The Dog cocktail?
You can use any type of bourbon that you prefer, but a bourbon with a rich, smooth flavor will complement the other strong flavors in the cocktail.
Can I add other spices to the Hair Of The Dog cocktail?
Yes, you can add other spices according to your preference, like hot sauce for extra kick or horseradish for a unique twist.
What's the perfect time to have Hair Of The Dog cocktail?
While it's often consumed as a hangover cure in the morning, you can enjoy this cocktail at any time of the day.
Can I use a different type of juice instead of tomato juice in the Hair Of The Dog cocktail?
Traditionally, tomato juice is used in a Hair Of The Dog cocktail, but for a different taste, you could try using carrot or beetroot juice.
What is the ideal glassware to serve Hair of The Dog cocktail in?
Though you can serve it in any glass, traditionally it is served in a highball glass filled with ice.
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