📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Rum
Alcohol 14%
Calories 350 calories
Fat 10g
Protein 2g
Carbohydrates 40g
Prep time 5 minutes
Ever wanted to whip up a tropical drink that feels like a vacation in a glass? The Kiwi Colada is just that—a sweet, tangy cocktail that captures the essence of an island getaway. We’ll explore its vibrant flavors, rich history, and how to craft this luscious libation, so join us on this delicious journey! ⬇️
History
The Kiwi Colada is a twist on the classic Piña Colada, which originated in Puerto Rico. This version celebrates the kiwi fruit, bringing a New Zealand flair to the tropical blend. Its creation is a testament to the evolving nature of cocktails, as mixologists worldwide continue to innovate and inspire.
- The original Piña Colada has been a beloved cocktail since its invention in the 1950s.
- Kiwi Colada emerged as a creative variation, substituting traditional pineapple with kiwi fruit.
- The cocktail gained popularity for its unique flavor and vibrant green color, evoking lush island landscapes.
The taste of a Kiwi Colada?
A Kiwi Colada tastes like a tropical breeze—sweet, creamy, and bursting with the fresh, tangy flavor of kiwi. It’s like sipping on a cool, fruity cloud with a hint of Caribbean rum warmth.
I find the Kiwi Colada irresistible because it’s a delightful blend of exotic flavors that dance on the palate, creating a refreshing experience with every sip.
Interesting facts about Kiwi Colada
- Kiwi is an excellent source of vitamin C, which makes Kiwi Colada a cocktail with a nutritious twist.
- Despite its name, the kiwi fruit is not native to New Zealand but comes from China originally.
- Kiwi Colada can be adapted into a non-alcoholic version, making it a fun tropical drink for all ages.
Ingredients
- Rum: 1.5 oz (45ml)
- Kiwi fruit puree: 2 oz (60ml)
- Coconut cream: 1 oz (30ml)
- Crushed ice: 1 cup
A hurricane glass is the ideal vessel for serving a Kiwi Colada, as its curved shape showcases the drink’s vibrant green hue. An alternative could be a highball glass, which still allows the drink’s colors to shine through.
Recipe. How to make Kiwi Colada
- Add 1.5 oz of rum, 2 oz of kiwi puree, 1 oz of coconut cream, and a cup of crushed ice into a blender.
- Blend until smooth, pour into a chilled glass, and garnish with a slice of kiwi or a tropical umbrella.
While the Kiwi Colada is a treat, it’s worth noting that it can be high in sugar. To make it healthier, try using natural sweeteners or less sugar. Kiwi fruit adds a nice vitamin boost, but moderation is still key.
Food Pairings
Finding the perfect food to complement the Kiwi Colada can elevate the tropical experience. Certain flavors can enhance the drink’s fruity and creamy notes.
Grilled Chicken
The smoky flavor of grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with the sweet and tangy profile of Kiwi Colada, creating a delicious balance on your palate.
Summer Salads
A crisp summer salad with vinaigrette dressing complements the Kiwi Colada’s creaminess and fruitiness, offering a light and refreshing meal combination.
Fruit Tarts
For a sweet end, fruit tarts with kiwi slices can mirror the cocktail’s flavors and bring a delightful symmetry to your taste experience.
I just love the playful mix of flavors in a Kiwi Colada; it’s like a symphony of sweetness with a hint of tartness that really makes it stand out.
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh kiwi puree for the most vibrant and true-to-fruit flavor in your Kiwi Colada.
- Chill your glasses before serving to keep the drink colder for longer.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with garnishes—a sprig of mint or a dusting of grated nutmeg can add an extra dimension to your cocktail.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Kiwi Colada, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Kiwi Colada
- Rum: Can be replaced with vodka for a lighter taste.
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of coconut cream to control the sweetness level.
- Texture: Add more or less crushed ice to achieve your desired consistency.
Kiwi Colada Variations
Spicy Kiwi Colada
- Ingredients: Add a small piece of jalapeño to the blend for a kick.
- Recipe: Muddle the jalapeño with kiwi before blending with the other ingredients.
Berry Kiwi Colada
- Ingredients: Incorporate a handful of mixed berries for a berry twist.
- Recipe: Blend the berries along with the kiwi and other ingredients until smooth.
Green Tea Kiwi Colada
- Ingredients: Infuse the drink with a splash of chilled green tea for an antioxidant boost.
- Recipe: Mix the green tea with the other ingredients in the blender and serve chilled.
To make a non-alcoholic Virgin Kiwi Colada, simply omit the rum and blend the kiwi puree, coconut cream, and ice. It’s a fruity, creamy delight that’s perfect for any age!
Q&A
Can I make Kiwi Colada in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the kiwi puree ahead of time and keep it in the fridge. Just blend with ice and coconut cream when you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best way to garnish a Kiwi Colada?
A slice of fresh kiwi on the rim or a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top can really make the presentation pop. Get creative!
Is there a way to make Kiwi Colada dairy-free?
Sure thing! Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version that’s just as delicious.
Can I use canned kiwi instead of fresh?
Fresh kiwi is best for flavor, but in a pinch, canned kiwi, well-drained and patted dry, can work too.
How can I make my Kiwi Colada more refreshing?
Add a dash of lime juice for an extra zesty kick that’ll amp up the refreshment factor!
Are there any special techniques for blending a perfect Kiwi Colada?
Start blending on low to chop the ice, then ramp up to high for a smooth finish. Remember, you want creamy, not slushy!
