Awadhi Velvet Old Fashioned

Description: Inspired by the regal elegance of Awadhi cuisine and the rich, silky texture of butter-washed bourbon, this sophisticated twist on the classic Old Fashioned mingles luxurious Eastern flavors. Saffron and cardamom infuse their aromatic warmth, while a house-made jaggery and date syrup adds subtle sweetness and depth. Finished with a delicate mist of rosewater and a garnish of edible gold leaf, this cocktail is a true celebration of heritage and opulence. Ingredients: - 60 ml unsalted butter-washed Jim Beam bourbon - 10 ml jaggery-date syrup (see below) - 2 dashes saffron-cardamom bitters (see below) - 1 drop rosewater - Edible gold leaf, for garnish - Flamed orange peel, for garnish Jaggery-Date Syrup: - 100g jaggery - 50g seedless dates, chopped - 150 ml water Simmer together until dates are soft and jaggery dissolves, then strain. Saffron-Cardamom Bitters: Infuse a neutral bitters base with a pinch of saffron strands and 4 crushed cardamom pods for at least 48 hours; strain and bottle. Glass: Serve in a heavy, premium old fashioned glass, over a large clear ice cube. Instructions: 1. In a mixing glass, combine butter-washed bourbon, jaggery-date syrup, and saffron-cardamom bitters with ice. 2. Stir until well chilled and diluted. 3. Strain into an old fashioned glass over a large clear cube of ice. 4. Add a drop of rosewater on the surface. 5. Express the oils of a flamed orange peel over the drink and drop it in. 6. Garnish with a small edible gold leaf on top of the ice for a royal touch. This cocktail evokes the grandeur of Lucknow’s Nawabi palaces while harmonizing seamlessly with both Awadhi and Asian flavors—a showstopper for your premium drinks menu.