Sidecar co*cktail | Sultry, Classy and Delicious | Dishes Delish (2024)

The Sidecar co*cktail is a classic concoction that harkens back to the Roaring Twenties, embodying the spirit and zest of the Jazz Age. Known for its smooth, citrus-kissed flavor profile, this co*cktail blends the warmth of cognac with the tang of lemon juice and the sweet complexity of Cointreau or triple sec.

Served in a coupe glass, it adds a touch of sophistication. The Sidecar is both a nod to tradition and a timeless choice for connoisseurs seeking a balanced and refined drink. Whether shaken for a solo evening treat or stirred for a gathering of friends, the Sidecar never goes out of style.

What is the Sidecar co*cktail?

The Sidecar co*cktail is a traditional blend, often associated with elegance and sophistication. This classic concoction primarily comprises cognac, lemon juice, and Cointreau.

Cognac, the primary spirit in this co*cktail, is a type of French brandy hailing from the Cognac region of France, renowned for its deep flavor profile and rich aroma. Famous brands include Rémy Martin. Including Cointreau, a type of orange liqueur, adds an exquisite citrus twist to the drink. It also hails from France and is acclaimed for its perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness.

The Sidecar co*cktail’s origins are steeped in mystery, and the co*cktail’s creator remains unknown. However, two popular tales prevail. The first attributes its creation to an unknown bartender at The Ritz hotel in Paris during World War I.

The second story claims that the Sidecar was created by a bartender named Pat MacGarry at Buck’s Club in London, also around World War I. Despite these conflicting tales, one thing is sure: the Sidecar co*cktail has stood the test of time, continuing to delight co*cktail fans with its exquisite flavors.

Why the right glass makes a difference

I love having various types of glassware in my collection for co*cktails because the glassware sets the mood for the drink. Think about it. Would you feel differently about a martini if it was served in a rock glass? I know I would!

I always try to match the drink with the stemware. And it’s fun to own different glasses! At least, it is for me.

Here are thecoupe glassesI use. If you don’t have a coupe, go with the classic martini glass.

Recipe Tips

• Shaking Duration: The duration of shaking the co*cktail is crucial. Over-shaking can dilute the co*cktail, while under-shaking can leave the ingredients poorly mixed. Aim for a good 15 seconds to get the perfect blend.
• Ice Cubes: Use regular-sized ice cubes to avoid excess dilution. Smaller ones melt faster and could make your drink watery.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice. The difference in taste between fresh and bottled juice is noticeable and significantly impacts the co*cktail’s quality.
• Chilled Glasses: Consider pre-chilling your glasses in the freezer for a few minutes before pouring the co*cktail. This helps keep your drink cool for a longer duration.

Tips on cutting citrus twists

• There are a few different ways of cutting twists out of citrus. The most popular way, especially around bartenders and chefs is a channeling knife. It takes a little practice to get the proper pressure to cut uniform strips, but once you get it, you can recreate this citrus twist consistently.
• If you don’t have a channeling knife, another great way to get an excellent citrus twist is to cut a thin wheel from the fruit. Then, you cut out the flesh and also cut a slice to break the circle.
• Or you can use a knife to cut/shave into the skin. I don’t like cutting a twist this way because it is hard to control the width, but it will do in a pinch.
• The easiest way to twist the citrus is to wrap the strip around a thin object like a chop stick. If you don’t have chop sticks in your house, then you can use something else that is thin or even your pinky finger.

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Some people add a sugared rim to their glass, but I urge you to try it without the sugar. I find that most co*cktails aren’t enhanced by added sugar. I think it ruins our palate.

How to make the sidecar co*cktail

Pre-step

Fill a co*cktail shaker halfway with ice and gather the glasses. Cut two lemon twists for the garnish and set aside.

After measuring out each ingredient, pour it into the shaker.

Step one

Gather the ingredients: Cognac, Cointreau, or another orange liqueur like triple sec, and lemon. (A)

Step two

Measure 4 ounces of the cognac. (B)

Step three

Measure 2 ounces of Cointreau. (C)

Step four

Measure 2 ounces fresh lemon juice. Notice the lemon twists in the background. (D)

Step five

Cap the shaker and shake vigorously for 15 seconds. Strain and divide the sidecar co*cktail between the two glasses. Add one lemon twist to each glass.

Let’s look at the vertical view.

Isn’t that pretty?

It’s time to grab my Ginger Rogers dress, bob my hair, and sip this classic co*cktail.

I hope you enjoyed the sidecar co*cktail recipe.

Other classic co*cktails

• Vodka dirty martini
• New York sour
• Bourbon Manhattan

And as always, may all your dishes/drinks be delish!

If you’ve tried thisrecipe, I’d love to know your thoughts in the comments below. I love hearing from you! You can alsoFOLLOW MEonFACEBOOK,TWITTER,INSTAGRAM,andPINTERESTto see more of my delicious food and delightful co*cktails!

Originally posted March of 2016.