Greetings, dear friends of Paulina Cocina! As so often on this blog, we invite you to join us for a drink. These 12 vodka cocktail recipes range from classics to variations, others sweet and fruity.
Vodka is one of the most popular and versatile alcoholic beverages worldwide. It is distinguished by its neutral flavor, meaning it has few distinctive tastes due to its distillation process, and its popularity is due in part to its ability to mix well with other ingredients .
The alcohol content of vodka varies, but generally ranges between 35% and 50% ABV. However, don't be alarmed or discouraged if you prefer less alcoholic flavors, as there are lower-alcohol versions known as "light" or "smooth" vodkas.
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About vodka drinks
Russia, the birthplace of vodka
The history of vodka dates back to Eastern European countries, such as Russia and Poland. Although its exact origin is debated, it is believed to have been first produced in Russia in the 9th century.
The first documented record of vodka production dates back to the 9th century in Russia, where it was used primarily for medicinal and religious purposes . For a long time, vodka was distilled in small quantities and in the form of homemade liquor. In the 14th century, Moscow began to regulate and tax production and trade.
Poland also claims paternity of vodka
In the 16th century, Poland also developed its own tradition of vodka production. Poles used different ingredients such as grains and potatoes and applied more advanced distillation methods. Polish vodka distillation became a more refined practice and was exported to other European countries.
Vodka was so highly valued in Poland that even Polish royalty had their own brand. The "Zubrowka" brand was the Polish king's favorite vodka and is still produced today.
Meaning of the word vodka
The word “vodka” is derived from the Slavic term “voda” meaning “water” and in fact, vodka was originally considered a “ mead ” , an alcoholic beverage distilled from fermented grains or honey.
The most expensive vodka in the world
Imperial Collection vodka is considered one of the most expensive vodkas in the world. Produced in Russia, it stands out for its exclusivity and its bottle adorned with jewels and precious stones.
2 important things to know before making our vodka drinks
While we've already said that vodka is a very versatile drink that can be mixed with a wide variety of ingredients, there are also some combinations that are not recommended.
Ingredients that can be mixed with vodka
- Fruit juice: Such as orange juice , cranberry juice, pineapple juice, grapefruit juice, or apple juice. These juices add flavor and sweetness to vodka drinks.
- Soft drinks: Such as lemon-lime soda, cola, club soda, ginger ale, or tonic. These soft drinks add fizz and help balance the vodka's flavor.
- Tonic water: This is a common mixer for drinks like the classic “Vodka Tonic .” Tonic has a distinctive bitter taste that complements vodka well.
- Lemon or lime juice: These citrus fruits add a refreshing, acidic touch to vodka cocktails.
- Syrup: Such as mint syrup, fruit syrup (strawberry, raspberry, mango, etc.), or even maple syrup to add a touch of sweetness and additional flavor.
- Coffee liqueur: You can mix vodka with coffee liqueur to create delicious drinks.
- Bitters: Some vodka cocktails benefit from the addition of bitters.
Ingredients that should not be mixed with vodka
- Milk: Mixing vodka with milk can result in an unappealing texture and unpleasant taste.
- Beer: Combining vodka with beer can be quite heavy on the stomach and is not usually a popular mix.
- Red wine: Vodka and red wine don't usually pair well together, as the flavors can clash and not complement each other properly.
12 vodka drink recipes
Martini
The Martini is an elegant classic that combines vodka with dry vermouth and is served with an olive or lemon peel as a garnish. The Dry Martini is one of those drinks we can identify just by looking at the glass it's served in.
Cosmopolitan
A modern and sophisticated cocktail that combines vodka with cranberry juice, orange liqueur, and lime juice. Although the drink can be made with regular vodka, the original recipe requires lemon-flavored vodka.
Moscow Mule
The Moscow Mule is a refreshing drink combining vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice, served in a copper mug that became a distinctive symbol of this cocktail. It became popular in the 1940s and was created to promote both Russian vodka and ginger beer.
Bloody Mary
Bloody Mary is a salty and spicy cocktail that mixes vodka with tomato juice, hot sauce, lemon juice, and seasonings like Worcestershire sauce and pepper. This salty and spicy drink is the most popular and consumed in the world and has become a classic in the cocktail scene.
Black Russian
A simple drink that blends vodka and coffee liqueur, creating a dark and flavorful drink. The drink is made straight from a short, wide glass ("On the Rocks") with two ice cubes. It was created in honor of an American diplomat in 1940.
White Russian
A vodka-based drink that also mixes coffee liqueur and cream, creating a creamy, smooth, and delicious combination. The White Russian is a variation on the classic Black Russian and derives its name from the cream added on top. The drink is served over ice in a glass.
Lemon Drop
A sweet and tangy drink that combines vodka with fresh lemon juice and sugar syrup, served with a sugar rim. It's described as a variation or take on the Martini. It's usually prepared and served chilled over ice and strained.
Sea Breeze
A refreshing combination that blends vodka with cranberry and grapefruit juice, perfect for hot days. The Sea Breeze was created in the late 1920s, during Prohibition. Although the recipe was originally different than it is today, it wasn't until the 1950s that the drink we know today was established.
Espresso Martini
An energizing cocktail that combines vodka, coffee liqueur, and strong espresso, creating a perfect blend of intense flavors. Also known as vodka espresso, it's not a true martini as it doesn't contain gin and vermouth.
Sex on the Beach
A tropical drink that blends vodka with orange juice, cranberry juice, and a touch of peach liqueur. It's an alcoholic cocktail invented in the 1980s in Miami, and the ritual of preparing this drink requires great care and attention to detail.
Blue Lagoon
A vibrant cocktail that combines vodka with blue curaçao and lemonade, creating a colorful and refreshing drink. It's typically garnished with a slice of orange or lemon and is named for its vibrant blue color.
Vodka Sunrise
A visually stunning drink that combines vodka with orange juice and a touch of grenadine, creating a gradient effect in the glass. It's a perfect drink for hot summer days and a great option for those looking to try something different.
