Tequila, garam masala-washed pineapple juice, hibiscus & fresh lime — GupShup NYC
Garam masala — literally 'warm spice blend' — contains cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, black pepper, coriander, and cumin in varying proportions depending on region and family. GupShup's bar team created a garam masala oil by infusing the spice blend in coconut oil, then fat-washing the pineapple juice with it: the oil absorbs the hydrophobic aromatic compounds from the spices, imparts them to the pineapple juice through agitation, then solidifies and separates cleanly when frozen. The result is pineapple juice that smells exactly like garam masala but contains none of the spice sediment.
The garam masala fat wash is the key technique here. If you don't have time for it, add a dash (2–3 drops) of cardamom bitters + 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon directly to the shaker — less complex but still interesting. The hibiscus syrup adds a tart, floral redness that works well with both pineapple and garam masala. Dehydrated pineapple rings make an elegant garnish and are available at specialty food stores.
GupShup (meaning 'gossip' or 'chatter' in Hindi and Urdu) is a celebration of Indian social culture through food and drink. The cocktail menu draws from the full breadth of the subcontinent — paan-inspired drinks, lassi riffs, spiced old fashioneds — with an energy that matches the name. One of the most vibrant Indian drinking experiences in New York City.
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