Blue Hawaiian: A Tropical Escape in a Glass
The Blue Hawaiian cocktail is a vibrant, tropical drink that embodies the spirit of summer with its bright blue hue and refreshing taste. A favorite at beach bars and tropical resorts, this cocktail is perfect for those looking to escape to an island paradise, even if just for a moment.
History
The Blue Hawaiian was created in 1957 by Harry Yee, a legendary bartender at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki, Hawaii. Tasked with creating a drink that would showcase the blue color of Curaçao, a liqueur made from the dried peel of the Laraha citrus fruit, Yee crafted this now-classic cocktail. The Blue Hawaiian quickly became popular due to its visually striking color and its refreshing, tropical flavor profile. Over the decades, it has remained a staple of tiki culture and a go-to drink for anyone seeking a taste of the tropics.
Flavor Profile
The Blue Hawaiian is a well-balanced blend of tropical sweetness, citrus tang, and a subtle alcoholic kick. The rum brings a light, slightly sweet note that pairs perfectly with the fruity flavors of pineapple juice. Vodka adds a neutral base that strengthens the drink without altering its flavor. Blue Curaçao not only gives the cocktail its iconic color but also introduces a subtle citrus flavor that complements the sweetness of the pineapple juice. The sweet and sour mix ties everything together, providing a zesty contrast that keeps the drink from being overly sweet. The result is a refreshing, vibrant cocktail that transports you straight to a sun-soaked beach.
BLUE HAWAIIAN
3
minutesHurricane glass or highball glass
Pineapple flag and cherry
Sip, relax, and let the Blue Hawaiian transport you to a paradise of tropical flavors.
Ingredients
1 oz. Rum
1 oz. Vodka
½ oz. Blue Curaçao
2 oz. Pineapple Juice
2 oz. Sweet & Sour Mix
Directions
- Add 1 oz. of rum, 1 oz. of vodka, ½ oz. of blue curaçao, 2 oz. of pineapple juice, and 2 oz. of sweet & sour mix into a cocktail shaker. Add ice.
- Secure the lid on your shaker and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This will chill the ingredients and blend the flavors.
- Strain the mixture into a hurricane glass filled with ice. This ensures your cocktail stays chilled and refreshing.
- To finish, garnish your Blue Hawaiian with a pineapple flag (a piece of pineapple with a cherry on top, skewered together). This not only adds a touch of flair but also enhances the tropical vibe of the drink.
- Your Blue Hawaiian is ready to be enjoyed. Whether you’re by the beach, poolside, or just dreaming of a tropical getaway, this cocktail is the perfect companion.
