Grab Some Grenadine
This fruit-flavoured syrup is a common ingredient in mocktails
Grenadine is often found in a number of non-alcoholic drink recipes. Both for its flavour, and bright pink colour.
Grenadine is one of those mysterious ingredients that is used in many non-alcoholic cocktails and other drinks, but isn't that well-known as to what it actually is. I always thought it sounded exotic and was a bit disappointed when I learned the truth.
It's simply a red fruit juice and sugar syrup. There are various blends available, but typical grenadine is mainly black currant juice, along with raspberry or blackberry. Some of the major brands don't even contain any real juice anymore. They are just a mixture of corn syrup and flavourings. Not very exciting if you think about it. The name "grenadine" comes from the French word for pomegranate, which is "grenade". Grenadine used to be made mainly with pomegranate juice.
Though grenadine can be found in many kinds of drinks, it's most commonly used in non-alcoholic versions of many popular cocktails (aka mocktails), such as the Shirley Temple. It's also sometimes used in fruit or dessert dishes, to add some extra sweet flavour as well as intensify the colour (usually used with pink or red fruit, like strawberries or cherries).
Shirley Temple Recipe
The Shirley Temple is a classic non-alcoholic recipe that is often served to children when the adults are indulging in harder spirits. It's fizzy and pink, which makes it fun.
- 4 oz ginger ale
- 2 oz orange juice
- 2/3 oz grenadine
Pour ginger ale and orange juice together over ice in a highball glass. Add grenadine over top and garnish with a slice of lemon.
Roy Rogers Recipe
Another recipe that is popular with kids, though most kids today won't know who Roy Rogers is. This drink might appeal to older children, as it doesn't look like a juice drink (like the Shirley Temple).
- 4 oz ginger ale
- 2 oz lemon-lime soda
- 1 tbs grenadine
Combine all 3 in a highball glass and stir. Add ice and serve with a slice of orange and a cherry.
Pussy Foot Recipe
If you prefer your drinks without the fizz, here is one with more juice and no carbonated soda.
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 2 oz grapefruit juice
- 2 oz orange juice
- 1/2 oz grenadine
Shake all juices and grenadine together, and serve with a straw in a tall glass.
Alice Cocktail Recipe
Another fruity juice drink, but with a creamy touch as well. A more mellow choice.
- 4 oz cream
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- 1 oz orange juice
- 1 oz grenadine
Mix together and shake well. Strain into a cocktail glass and serve.
If you prefer your drinks to have more kick, you can find real cocktail recipes here.
