Himalayan Ghost Cocktail Recipe
Himalayan Ghost Nutrition Facts
Calories:200
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol %:40
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 Himalayan Ghost is a cocktail that was first created in the high-altitude bars of Nepal. It was designed to warm up the climbers who were braving the harsh conditions of the Himalayas. The cocktail quickly gained popularity among the locals and tourists alike, and it's now a staple in many bars around the world. It's a favorite among those who enjoy a strong, warming drink with a hint of spice.
How Himalayan Ghost Tastes?
The Himalayan Ghost is a strong, warming cocktail with a spicy kick. The taste is a unique blend of smoky, sweet, and spicy, with a hint of citrus. The heat from the ginger and the chilli is balanced out by the sweetness of the honey and the tartness of the lime.
Interesting facts about Himalayan Ghost
- The Himalayan Ghost was first created in Nepal.
- It's a warming cocktail, designed to help climbers deal with the cold conditions of the Himalayas.
- Despite its name, the cocktail doesn't contain any ghost peppers.
Ingredients
A few good options for Himalayan Ghost are:
- Brockmans
- Silent Pool Gin
- Hendrick's Gin
Whiskey
Whiskey is the spirit backbone of this drink, providing a robust and deep flavor. Use 2oz for a balanced strength; any less may get overpowered by the other ingredients, more could hijack the drink into bourbon brutishness. An alternative could be rye for a spicier twist or Scotch for a smoky layer.
Mary Mitkina
Ginger
This zesty root adds a spicy, piquant kick, that can help settle the stomach and warm the soul. Muddling it well is key for a full flavor infusion. No ginger, no zing – and we're making a ghost, not a spiritless specter! Sub it with galangal if you want a more earthy punch.
Emma Rose
Chilli
Chilli provides a bit of heat, just one piece so it doesn't turn into a flame thrower. Substituting with cayenne or paprika could vary the heat profile, giving you a ghost with a different kind of haunt.
Alex Green
Honey
Nature's sweetener here offers a calm amidst the storm of flavors. One tablespoon should suffice; it's about harmony, not turning the drink into Winnie the Pooh's dream. Omitting honey makes the drink sharper, but maple syrup could be a flavorful alternative.
Mary Mitkina
Lime
This citrus fruit is for that tangy twist; it's what gives this ghost its spirited howl. One piece should do it – too much and we're sailing the sour seas, too little and it's barely a whisper. Lemon could step in if lime is elusive, with a brighter, less tropical note.
Emma Rose
Ice
It chills, it dilutes, it's the unsung hero. As needed because every hero knows their limit; too much and the drink's as watered down as a ghost in a washing machine, too little and it hardly cools the flames.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Himalayan Ghost Drink
- Muddle the ginger and chilli in a shaker.
- Add the whiskey, honey, and lime juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
- Strain the cocktail into a glass and serve.
Pro Tips
- Use a good quality whiskey for the best taste.
- Adjust the amount of chilli according to your taste.
- If you like your cocktails sweeter, you can add more honey.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizer Pairings
- Grilled shrimp: The smoky flavor pairs wonderfully with the spicy kick of the cocktail.
- Samosas: The spices in Indian samosas complement the spiciness and zestiness of the Himalayan Ghost.
Main Course Pairings
- Barbecue ribs: The sweetness of the barbecue sauce can provide a nice balance to the heat of the cocktail.
- Tandoori chicken: The robust flavors of tandoori mesh well with the boldness of the whiskey and the heat of the ginger and chilli.
Dessert Pairings
- Lemon tart: The citrusy dessert could enhance the lime's fresh flavor in the cocktail.
- Dark chocolate: The bitterness can stand up to the strong flavors and provide a delightful contrast.
🍹 Discover the Top 50 All-Time Recipes! 🍹
Enter your email, and we'll send the exclusive list straight to your inbox.
We respect your privacy and take protecting it seriously
What you could change in Himalayan Ghost
- You can substitute the whiskey with rum or brandy.
- If you don't have fresh ginger, you can use ginger syrup or ginger liqueur.
Explore all drinks starting with H here
And of course - twists🍹
Smoky Himalayan Ghost
- Ingredients: 2oz Scotch (preferably one with a pronounced smokiness), the rest the same.
- Recipe: Follow the original, but with a smoky Scotch.
- This twist will send shivers down your spine with a whisper of peat and smoke that swirls with the Himalayan heat like a bonfire in the mountains.
Green Ghost
- Ingredients: Replace whiskey with 2oz of green Chartreuse, and chilli with a small slice of jalapeño.
- Recipe: Muddle the ginger and jalapeño, then mix with green Chartreuse, honey, and lime, following the same steps afterward.
- A mystical blend of herbal flavors, this twist will feel like a stroll through a haunted herbal garden, with a hot bite lurking behind each leaf.
Honeyed Ghost
- Ingredients: Replace honey with 1tbsp agave nectar, and add a cinnamon stick for garnish.
- Recipe: Muddle ginger and chilli, then add whiskey, agave nectar, and lime, following the original method. Garnish with cinnamon stick.
- The agave brings a smoother sweetness and an ethereal quality, while cinnamon whispers ancient secrets as it dances with the ginger and chilli flames.
In case you forgot basics how to make Himalayan Ghost
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 strainThe key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.
Learn everything on how to muddleFind the cocktail you'd love!
If you want to drink something else - you can use our AI-augmented search to find the best cocktail for you!
Completely free!
Frequently Asked Questions on Himalayan Ghost
Can I use any type of whiskey for this cocktail?
Yes, you can use any type of whiskey but using a good quality whiskey is advised for the best taste.
Is this cocktail served hot or cold?
The Himalayan Ghost is served cold. Despite this, it's named as a 'warming' cocktail because of the warming sensation the drink gives due to its ingredients.
What glassware should I use to serve this cocktail?
The Himalayan Ghost is typically served in a sturdy, clear glass to highlight its golden color and rustic charm.
What garnish can be used for this cocktail?
This cocktail is typically garnished with a slice of lime and a small red chilli.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?
Yes, you can substitute the whiskey with a non-alcoholic ginger ale or apple juice. The taste will be different but it can still provide a warming sensation.
More similar recipes to Himalayan Ghost!
Explore new cocktails you'd love!
Saenggang Soju
The Saenggang Soju cocktail has a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet taste. The ginger adds a zesty kick, while the soju provides a smooth and clean finish.
Grounded Embiggening
The Grounded Embiggening is a complex cocktail with a refreshing, citrusy start, followed by a deep, earthy undertone. It has a slight sweetness that balances the bitterness of the spirits used. The finish is long and warming, leaving a lingering taste of spice and citrus.
Bobby Burns
The Bobby Burns cocktail is a robust, full-bodied drink with a rich sweetness from the vermouth and a hint of herbal complexity from the Benedictine. The Scotch whisky provides a smoky, malty backbone that's both warming and comforting.
Penicillin
The Penicillin cocktail is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, spicy, and smoky flavors. The honey and lemon provide a bright, refreshing sweetness, while the ginger adds a warm, spicy kick. The blended Scotch whisky gives the drink a smooth, rich base, and the Islay Scotch lends a distinct smoky, peaty finish.
Copperhead
The Copperhead cocktail has a refreshing, slightly sweet, and herbal taste. It is well-balanced, with a hint of citrus and a subtle spicy kick from the ginger.
Indian
The Indian Summer cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The sweetness of the mango and the tanginess of the lime juice are perfectly balanced by the warmth of the ginger and the subtle heat of the chili pepper. The addition of rum adds a smooth and slightly smoky note to the drink, making it a well-rounded and satisfying cocktail.
Hot Toddy
The Hot Toddy is a warm, soothing, and comforting cocktail with a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. The sweetness of honey and the warmth of whiskey are complemented by the tanginess of lemon and the subtle spiciness of cinnamon and cloves.
Navy Grog
Navy Grog is a well-balanced cocktail with a complex flavor profile. It's strong, yet refreshing, with a combination of sweet, sour, and spicy notes. The rum provides a rich, warm base, while the citrus juices add a bright, tangy element. The honey and spices round out the flavor, giving the drink a touch of sweetness and depth.
Three Dots and a Dash
The Three Dots and a Dash cocktail is a delightful combination of sweet, sour, and fruity flavors. It has a rich and complex taste, with notes of citrus, honey, and spices. The rum adds a warming, smooth finish to the drink.
Long Island Iced Tea
The Long Island Iced Tea is a complex blend of flavors, combining the sweetness of cola and sour mix with the boldness of multiple spirits. It is a strong, yet surprisingly smooth cocktail with a slightly bitter aftertaste.
Caipirinha
The Caipirinha has a refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet taste. The combination of lime and sugar provides a perfect balance of sour and sweet, while the cachaça adds a unique, earthy flavor. The drink is strong, yet smooth and easy to sip.
Sidecar
The Sidecar is a delightful mix of sour, sweet, and strong flavors. The combination of cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice creates a smooth and refreshing taste, with a hint of warmth from the cognac.
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned has a rich, complex taste that is both sweet and bitter. The whiskey provides a strong, warming base, while the sugar and bitters add a touch of sweetness and a hint of spice. The orange and cherry garnish add a subtle fruity note.
Whiskey Sour
The Whiskey Sour is a well-balanced cocktail with a tangy, sour taste from the lemon juice, a subtle sweetness from the simple syrup, and a rich, warming sensation from the whiskey. The egg white adds a smooth, creamy texture.
Rusty Nail
The Rusty Nail is a smooth, sweet, and slightly spicy cocktail with a strong, warming whiskey backbone. The honey and herbal notes from the Drambuie complement the smoky, peaty flavors of the Scotch.
Mojito
The Mojito is a refreshing, sweet, and slightly sour cocktail with a hint of mint and a subtle rum kick. It is a well-balanced drink that is both invigorating and easy to sip.
Margarita
The Margarita is a well-balanced cocktail with a bright, citrusy flavor. It is both sweet and sour, with the tanginess of lime juice complementing the sweetness of the orange liqueur. The tequila adds a strong, earthy backbone, while the salt rim enhances the overall taste and adds a savory touch.
Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing, slightly spicy, and tangy cocktail with a hint of sweetness. The combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice creates a well-balanced and invigorating flavor profile.
Bloody Mary
The Bloody Mary is a savory, spicy, and tangy cocktail with a strong tomato flavor. The vodka adds a subtle kick, while the Worcestershire and hot sauce provide a complex depth of flavor. The lemon juice adds a touch of acidity, and the celery salt and black pepper give it a slight earthiness.
Dark 'N' Stormy
The Dark 'N' Stormy has a bold, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The rich, dark rum provides a strong base, while the ginger beer adds a refreshing, zesty kick. The lime juice adds a touch of tartness to balance out the sweetness.
Painkiller
The Painkiller cocktail is a delightful mix of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. The combination of pineapple and orange juices creates a fruity base, while the coconut cream adds a rich, creamy sweetness. The dark rum provides a strong, warming backbone, and the freshly grated nutmeg on top adds a subtle hint of spice.