Painkiller Cocktail Recipe

The Painkiller cocktail was created in the 1970s at the Soggy Dollar Bar in the British Virgin Islands. It quickly gained popularity among sailors and tourists, and has since become a staple in tropical bars around the world. The Painkiller is a favorite among those who enjoy fruity, tropical drinks with a hint of spice.

• Originally created in the British Virgin Islands
• Popular among sailors and tourists
• A staple in tropical bars around the world

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.

• The Painkiller is often considered the official cocktail of the British Virgin Islands
• The name 'Painkiller' is trademarked by Pusser's Rum, which is the original rum used in the cocktail
• There are four official variations of the Painkiller, with each version increasing the amount of rum

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
2. Add the dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, and coconut cream
3. Shake well until chilled and combined
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with crushed ice
5. Top with a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
6. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry

• Shake the cocktail well to ensure all ingredients are well combined
• Use freshly squeezed juices for a more authentic taste
• Chill the glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold for longer

Food Pairings

• Grilled Seafood: The tropical flavors of the Painkiller cocktail complement the charred, smoky flavor of grilled shrimp or fish.
• Spicy Dishes: Balance the heat of Thai or Caribbean cuisine with the sweet, refreshing notes of the cocktail.
• Fruit Salads: Enjoy with a fresh fruit salad that echoes the citrus and pineapple flavors in the drink.
• BBQ: The sweetness of the Painkiller can cut through the richness of barbecued meats.

Drink Pairings

• Cold Brew Coffee: For a non-alcoholic option, the bitterness of cold brew can offset the sweetness of the Painkiller.
• Beer: A crisp, light lager can cleanse the palate between sips of this sweet cocktail.

• Dark Rum: Can be replaced with light rum for a milder flavor
• Pineapple Juice: Mango juice can be used for a different tropical twist
• Coconut Cream: Coconut milk can be used as a lighter alternative

Spiced Painkiller

• Substitute dark rum with spiced rum: Use spiced rum to add extra warmth and depth.
• Add a splash of ginger beer: This gives the drink a spicy kick and some effervescence.

The taste will be more complex with a slightly spicy and fizzy twist, perfect for those who like their tropical drinks with a bit more character.

Coco-Lime Painkiller

• Add 1/2 oz of fresh lime juice: The lime juice introduces a sharp tanginess.
• Garnish with toasted coconut flakes: Adds texture and a roasted flavor.

This variant offers a zesty, sharper edge, complementing the creamy coconut, and the roasted garnish provides a fun crunch and nutty aroma.

Virgin Painkiller

• Dark rum substitute with non-alcoholic dark rum alternative or more pineapple juice: To make it non-alcoholic.
• Use a cinnamon stick for garnish: Gives an alcohol-free aromatic experience. The non-alcoholic version maintains the tropical flair and creaminess but is suitable for all ages and occasions.