Jamaican Dirty Banana Cocktail Recipe

Jamaican Dirty Banana Nutrition Facts

Calories:350

Fat:8g

Protein:2g

Carbohydrates:35g

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

History

The Jamaican Dirty Banana is a popular cocktail in Jamaica and other Caribbean countries. It's a tropical, creamy drink that's perfect for sipping on a hot day on the beach. The cocktail is believed to have originated in the 1970s in Jamaica's all-inclusive resorts. It's a hit among those who love creamy, sweet cocktails with a hint of tropical flavors.

How Jamaican Dirty Banana Tastes?

The Jamaican Dirty Banana is a sweet, creamy cocktail with a rich, velvety texture. The rum gives it a slight kick, while the banana and coffee flavors blend perfectly to create a tropical, indulgent drink.

Interesting facts about Jamaican Dirty Banana

  • The Jamaican Dirty Banana is often served in a hurricane glass, which enhances its tropical appeal.
  • Despite its name, the cocktail does not look 'dirty'. It's actually a creamy, light brown color.
  • The cocktail is sometimes garnished with a slice of fresh banana or a cherry.

Ingredients

Dark Rum

Dark rum contributes a rich, molasses-like sweetness along with a kick of alcohol that gives the drink its backbone. If you skim on it, you'll miss the warm, complex depth it provides. If going overboard, the cocktail might become too boozy and overshadow other flavors. Substitute: Aged rum for a smoother taste or spiced rum for an extra zesty note.

Alex Green

Kahlua

Kahlua adds a coffee-flavored richness which pairs excellently with the creamy banana profile. Less Kahlua would mean missing out on the depth it adds, while too much could make the coffee flavor overpowering. Substitute: Tia Maria or any other coffee liqueur if Kahlua isn't available.

Emma Rose

Banana Liqueur

Banana liqueur provides the signature banana flavor with a sugary sweetness. Too little and the banana taste won't come through; too much could make the cocktail sickly sweet. Substitute: Crème de banane or even a bit of banana puree with a touch of simple syrup could work in a pinch.

Mary Mitkina

Cream

Cream is the body and soul of this drink, offering a luxurious texture. Skimp on it, and your cocktail will feel thin. Overdo it, and you might as well be drinking a milkshake. Substitute: Half-and-half for something lighter or coconut cream for a vegan twist.

Alex Green

Whole Milk

Milk adds smoothness and dilutes the richness just enough without masking flavors. If you forget it, the cocktail might become too thick and potent. Go over, and the cocktail becomes watery. Substitute: Almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.

Emma Rose

Banana

The fresh banana is crucial for the cocktail's authenticity and texture. Without it, you're missing the fresh, fruity heart of the drink. Overuse, and the banana might dominate all. Substitute: You could try substituting with mango for a different tropical twist.

Mary Mitkina

Ice

Ice chills and dilutes the mix to perfection. The drink would be too warm and concentrated without it; too much ice could make it too slushy. No real substitute here as ice is key for consistency, but in a pinch, you can serve it 'on the rocks'.

Alex Green

Recipe. How to make Jamaican Dirty Banana Drink

  1. In a blender, combine the dark rum, Kahlua, banana liqueur, cream, milk, and banana.
  2. Add the ice and blend until smooth.
  3. Pour the mixture into a hurricane glass.
  4. Garnish with a slice of fresh banana or a cherry, if desired.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips

  • Use a ripe banana for a sweeter cocktail.
  • For a frozen version, freeze the banana before blending.
  • If you want a stronger coffee flavor, add a shot of espresso.

Perfect Pairings

Desserts

  • Chocolate Treats: The richness of the chocolate will complement the creamy, sweet nature of the cocktail.
  • Tropical Fruit Plates: A medley of fresh tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and papaya can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the drink's sweetness.
  • Coffee-flavored Desserts: The Kahlua in the drink invites pairing with tiramisu or coffee cake.

Snacks

  • Salted Nuts: The salt will enhance the sweetness of the cocktail.
  • Cheese Platter: Creamy cheeses like brie or camembert can create an interesting flavor dynamic.

Brunch

  • Pancakes or Waffles: With a topping of banana slices and a drizzle of maple syrup, they can be a delicious complement to the richness of the Dirty Banana cocktail.
  • Eggs Benedict: The robust flavors of the cocktail can stand up to the rich hollandaise sauce.

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What you could change in Jamaican Dirty Banana

  • Dark Rum: You can substitute with light rum or spiced rum.
  • Kahlua: You can substitute with any coffee liqueur.
  • Banana Liqueur: You can substitute with banana syrup or banana puree.
  • Cream: You can substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for a tropical twist.

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And of course - twists🍹

Coconut Dirty Banana

Replace the whole milk with coconut milk and the cream with coconut cream. This gives a tropical spin that's dairy-free and vegan-friendly and adds a refreshing coconut flavor that beautifully complements the banana.

Spiced Dirty Banana

Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the blender. These spices will infuse the cocktail with warm, aromatic flavors, perfect for cooler evenings or those who enjoy a little extra zing in their drink.

Mocha Dirty Banana

Swap out half of the Kahlua for chocolate liqueur. This creates a mocha effect, blending chocolate and coffee notes that are indulgent and perfect for those who can't decide between a drink or dessert!

In case you forgot basics how to make Jamaican Dirty Banana

Garnishing 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 garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Jamaican Dirty Banana

What is the origin of the name 'Jamaican Dirty Banana'?

The name stems from the use of banana and dark rum as ingredients in the cocktail, both of which are significant products of Jamaica. It's thought that the 'dirty' part of the name indicates the inclusion of Kahlua, which gives the cocktail its 'dirty' look.

Why is a 'hurricane glass' used for this cocktail?

The curved design of the hurricane glass showcases the creamy texture and color of the cocktail, enhancing its visual appeal. The shape also makes it easier to hold and stabilize, especially for a larger, blended drink like the Jamaican Dirty Banana.

Can I make the Jamaican Dirty Banana non-alcoholic?

Yes, there are many ways to adapt the recipe for a non-alcoholic Jamaican Dirty Banana. Instead of rum, use a coffee or banana extract, or opt for additional banana for flavor. Instead of Kahlua, use coffee or chocolate syrup.

How can I make a vegan version of the Jamaican Dirty Banana?

For a vegan version of the Jamaican Dirty Banana, substitute the cream and milk with a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk or coconut milk. Also ensure that your chosen brands of dark rum, Kahlua, and Banana liqueur are vegan.

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