Try the Bufala Negra recipe to relax! Blend Bourbon, fresh basil, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar for a perfect fall cocktail.
Prep time:
1 minute
Mixing time:
1 minute
Servings:
1
Calories:
151
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 4 fresh basil leaves
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- Ginger beer - to top off
- Ice cubes
- Basil sprig - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Old Fashioned Glass
- Shaker
- Measuring Jigger
- Strainer & Fine-strainer
Instructions
- Prep Glass: Fill your Old Fashioned glass with ice cubes, stir and set it aside.
- Add Basil and Sugar: Drop 1 tsp brown sugar together with 4 fresh basil leaves into a shaker.
- Add Balsamic Vinegar: Measure and add 1 tsp balsamic vinegar to the mix.
- Add Bourbon: Pour 2 oz Bourbon into the shaker.
- Shake: Fill your shaker with ice and shake for about 10-15 seconds.
- Strain: Fine strain your mixture into the old fashioned glass over fresh ice.
- Top with Ginger Beer: Top off the drink with ginger beer to taste.
- Garnish: Add a basil sprig for garnish if desired.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Bourbon: If you don't have Bourbon, I've used rye whiskey for a spicier kick or dark rum for a sweeter profile.
- Basil Leaves: Mint can work as an alternative if you're out of basil.
- Brown Sugar: White sugar or honey can substitute brown sugar, but they will alter the depth of sweetness.
- Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of apple cider vinegar can replace balsamic in a pinch, though it will be less rich.
Making a Pitcher of Bufala Negra:
- Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all ingredients by 8. Use 16 oz of Bourbon, about 32 basil leaves, 8 tsp of brown sugar and balsamic vinegar.
- Mix: In a large pitcher, muddle the basil leaves with brown sugar, then add Bourbon and balsamic vinegar. Stir well.
- Serve: Pour into individual ice-filled glasses, top with ginger beer, garnish with basil sprigs, and serve immediately.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Bourbon Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative; these are available and mimic the flavor profile nicely.
- Proceed As Usual: Follow the original steps using non-alcoholic substitutes to enjoy a booze-free version.
What is a Bufala Negra?
A Bufala Negra is a bourbon-based cocktail made of fresh basil, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, and ginger beer. It’s easy to make and involves simple mixing steps. The unique combination of ingredients gives it a distinctive flavor profile that balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes for an intriguing drink experience.
What is a Bufala Negra made of – The ingredients
Have these ingredients on hand for a Bufala Negra:
- Bourbon: Delivers a smooth, rich foundation with notes of caramel and oak.
- Fresh Basil: Infuses the drink with a fresh, aromatic herbal flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a touch of molasses richness.
- Balsamic Vinegar: Introduces a tangy, savory depth that balances the sweetness.
- Ginger Beer: Provides a spicy kick and effervescent finish to the cocktail.
