Nothing comes remotely close to the monsoons in India – the enchanting petrichor, the rhythmic pitter-patter of rain, and that constant urge to bite into piping hot, crispy, and chatpata street food. And if you’re in Mumbai particularly, nothing compares to a piping hot vada pav – freshly fried and served with a generous garlic and coriander chutneys and fried chillies!
The mere thought of it makes us drool, but you know what can go exceptionally well with a vada pav? A decadent, warm drink that complements the beloved street snack. So, here’s us recommending you about 5 classic cocktails with vada pav that will simply elevate your rainy-day mood to a whole new level!
Chutneys And Cocktails: 5 Classic Cocktails With Vada Pav
Whiskey Sour
Whiskey Sour needs no introduction – it is a classic drink that will surely be perfect for a monsoon day. Made with whiskey, lemon juice, simple syrup, and often some egg white, it packs a punch by combining citrus flavors with the smooth silkiness of egg whites. And if it’s paired with a piping hot vada pav, you’re in for a treat of the taste buds.
The tartness of the lemon cuts right through the heat of the iconic garlic chutney. On the other hand, the sweetness and smoothness of the drink perfectly complements the crunch of the vada pav. Also, we recommend squeezing some lemon juice over your vada pav for that extra citrusy zing. You can also add a pinch of chaat masala or garnish the drink with a lightly charred lime wheel to add a little razzle dazzle!
Bloody Mary: Vada Pav’s Spicy Soulmate
Don’t go by its eerie name – the drink is one of the best to have on a rainy day. The cocktail is a classic drink made with a blend of vodka, tomato juice, tabasco, Worcestershire sauce, and various other spices. With so many spices and the signature burn of vodka, the cocktail makes for a good drink when you’re in the mood to spice up your cocktail drinking experience.
And when you pair it with a good bite of vada pav, prepare yourself for a burst of flavors. The spicy flavors of Bloody Mary don’t clash with the spiciness of the garlic chutney and chillies – they work together in harmony for an oh-so-spicy ting! Plus, the soft texture of the pav mellows down the bold flavors – that way you won’t need to reach out gasping for a gulp of water!
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Moscow Mule: Ginger-y Goodness
Here’s a cocktail that not only refreshes your taste buds but also rejuvenates your soul. A classic Moscow Mule is made with a zingy mix of vodka, lime juice, and spicy ginger beer. With the goodness of ginger, crisp vodka, and zesty lime juice, the iconic cocktail feels like a warm hug in a copper mug.
The deep-fried crunch of the vada pav pairs well with the bold, peppery freshness of the Moscow Mule. The refreshing taste of the ginger beer is not just light, slightly acidic, and delicious but also cuts through the spiciness of the vada pav. For the best experience, try to have the drink as chilled as possible – and don’t forget to generously smother your vada with the different chutneys.
Dark ‘n’ Stormy: Perfect For The Mumbai Storms
Mumbai’s rainstorms turn the entire city into a floating island of sorts – and while that isn’t the most ideal situation, why not enjoy the rains with a Dark ‘n’ Stormy. The drink is made with just three ingredients – dark rum, ginger beer, and lime. The drink, with just three ingredients, makes for an easy-to-prepare cocktail even when you’re at home.
The combination of the sweet, zingy beer and lime perfectly balances the spicy kick of the vada pav. Plus, with the addition of dark rum, you get that perfect dose of booze with a delicious snack. A Dark ‘n’ Stormy is one of the best classic cocktails with vada pav simply because of its subtle yet impactful flavor. The combination of all the flavors leaves you with an intense, slightly sweet, and spicy kick – ideal for monsoon sipping.
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Margarita: A Classic Like No Other
A classic Margarita is a fan favorite for a reason. With just tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, a Margarita is tart, zesty, salty, and oh-so-delicious! While it pairs effortlessly well with spicy food items like chicken poppers, cajun chicken, and vegetable/meat skewers, try it out with a desi vada pav – you’ll thank us later!
The citrusy notes of the Margarita cut through the sharp taste of tequila and leave a warm mouthfeel. The spices balance each other well without being overpowering – be it the garlic chutney, the fried chillies, or the lime. And when it comes to vada pav, you cannot compromise with any mediocre drink on the block – you need a classic drink to accompany your favorite street snack. Best served with a side of crunchy batter bits and an open view of the downpour.
Summing Up
If you’re searching for classic cocktails with vada pav, now your search is over! With these 5 classic cocktails, we’re sure you’ll make your rainy day experience more enjoyable. After all, what is more fun and cozy than a decadent cocktail in one hand and a vada pav in the other. So, the next time the clouds turn grey and rain pours down, remember to not only romanticize Mumbai ki baarish but also make the experience a little boozy!
