Understanding Pandan in Asian Cuisine
Pandan, a tropical plant with fragrant leaves, plays a significant role in both South and Southeast Asian cuisine. Known for its grassy, vanilla-infused flavor and distinctive green hue, pandan is often used in curries and sweet treats alike. Its unique taste is complemented well by ingredients such as coconut cream, making it a versatile choice in culinary applications.
Pandan’s Increasing Popularity in the West
In recent years, pandan has garnered attention beyond its native regions, becoming a sought-after ingredient in the West. This rising popularity is evident in various drinks and desserts that showcase its delightful flavor profile. Bartenders and chefs alike are now incorporating pandan into craft beverages, discovering its potential to enrich cocktails and desserts with an exotic twist.
Pandan in Modern Cocktails
One notable example of pandan’s integration into cocktails can be found at Miami cocktail bar, The Sylvester. There, the creative mixologists have paired pandan with sweet aged rum, dry sherry, tropical fruits, and condensed milk in a drink aptly named Gator’s Milk. This concoction not only highlights pandan’s unique taste but also embraces its dessert-like qualities, appealing to those who appreciate innovative flavor combinations.
