New Orleans Signature Drink Recipe: Hurricane
Be blown away by one of NOLA’s most famous cocktails
What is a Hurricane cocktail?
The most popular drink with visitors to the French Quarter may just be the sweet red Hurricane, served with a big old cherry and a juicy orange slice. This local libation was created with rum at Pat O’Brien’s bar during World War II when whiskey was hard to come by. The name for the drink came from the glass it’s served in that resembles a hurricane lamp. A perfect place to sip a Hurricane is still in Pat O’s legendary courtyard, overlooking the flaming fountain. You can find them elsewhere around the city as well, and most bartenders will be happy to mix you one. Also try the frozen varieties at drive-thru daiquiri stands and in the French Market.
How to Make a Hurricane Cocktail
Whether you choose to make one from scratch or use the mix, Hurricanes are a delicious cocktail to whip up at home.
Traditional Hurricane Recipe
- 2 oz. light rum
- 2 oz. dark rum
- 2 oz. passion fruit juice
- 1 oz. orange juice
- ½ oz. fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup
- 1 tablespoon grenadine
- Garnish: orange slice and cherry
Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and strain into a hurricane glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cheery and an orange slice.
Pat O’Brien’s Hurricane Recipe
- 4 oz. of Pat O’Brien’s Rum or any good dark rum
- 4 oz. Pat O’Brien’s Hurricane Mix*
- Garnish: orange slice and cherry
Mix ingredients and pour into 26 oz. glass with crushed ice. Garnish with a slice of orange and a cherry. *Mix is sold at the bar, online at www.patobriens.com and around town.