In the world of tropical cocktails, few drinks have a backstory as intriguing as the Doctor Funk. Created by Don Beach in the early 1950s at his famous restaurant, The Don The Beachcomber, the Doctor Funk is said to be inspired by Doctor Bernard Funk, who was none other than Robert Louis Stevenson's physician in Samoa. Legend has it that Doctor Funk concocted and prescribed an absinthe-laced limeade, which eventually evolved into this beloved cocktail.
The Doctor Funk is a refreshing combination of flavors that transports you to a tropical paradise with each sip. Here's how to make it:
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz white rum
– 1 tsp absinthe
– 0.5 oz grenadine
– 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
– 1 oz soda water
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Cocktail umbrella, for garnish
To make the Doctor Funk, start by filling a Collins glass with ice. Add the white rum, absinthe, grenadine, and fresh lime juice to a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously to mix the ingredients together and strain into the Collins glass over the ice.
Top the glass with soda water, adding a refreshing effervescence to the drink. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the flavors. Garnish with a lime wheel and a colorful cocktail umbrella to add a touch of tropical flair.
The combination of white rum, absinthe, grenadine, and lime juice creates a unique flavor profile that is both sweet and tangy. The absinthe adds a hint of herbal complexity, while the grenadine lends a touch of fruity sweetness. The fresh lime juice provides a zesty and citrusy kick, balancing out the flavors perfectly.
The Doctor Funk is best enjoyed on a warm summer day, lounging by the pool or sipping it at a tiki bar. Its tropical vibes and refreshing taste make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts looking for a taste of paradise.
But what about the mysterious history behind the name? According to historical accounts, Doctor Bernard Funk served the original version of this drink as a “medicinal tonic.” It consisted of absinthe, grenadine, lime juice, and soda water. Perhaps this concoction was meant to invigorate and revitalize those who sought the doctor's expertise.
Whether the Doctor Funk was truly a medicinal tonic or simply a delicious creation by Don Beach, one thing is for sure – it has stood the test of time as a classic tropical cocktail. Its intriguing history and delightful flavors make it a must-try for any cocktail aficionado.
So, the next time you find yourself craving a taste of the tropics, mix up a Doctor Funk and let its mysterious history and vibrant flavors transport you to a faraway paradise. Cheers!
What Kind Of Rum Do You Use In Dr Funk?
In order to make a Dr Funk cocktail, you will need to use white rum. White rum is a clear and light-bodied rum that is commonly used in tropical cocktails like the Dr Funk. It is typically made from molasses and has a milder flavor compared to darker rums. The use of white rum in this cocktail allows the other ingredients to shine and create a refreshing and balanced drink. Some popular brands of white rum include Bacardi, Captain Morgan, and Mount Gay. It is important to choose a rum that you enjoy the taste of, as it will contribute to the overall flavor of the cocktail.
Conclusion
The Doctor Funk cocktail is a unique and intriguing drink with a fascinating history. Created by Don Beach in the 1950s, it was named after Doctor Bernard Funk, who was renowned as Robert Louis Stevenson's physician in Samoa. The recipe for this cocktail is said to have been inspired by a limeade concoction that Doctor Funk prescribed to his patients, which included absinthe, grenadine, lime juice, and soda water.
The Doctor Funk cocktail is a refreshing blend of flavors, with the white rum providing a smooth and tropical base. The addition of absinthe adds a hint of complexity and depth, while the grenadine lends a touch of sweetness. The fresh lime juice adds a tangy and citrusy element, balancing out the other ingredients perfectly.
This drink is not only delicious, but it also has an interesting backstory that adds to its allure. It is a testament to the creativity and innovation of mixologists throughout history, who have continually pushed the boundaries of cocktail-making.
Whether enjoyed as a medicinal tonic, as originally prescribed by Doctor Funk, or simply as a delightful and refreshing beverage, the Doctor Funk cocktail is sure to impress with its unique combination of flavors. So, next time you're in the mood for something different, why not give the Doctor Funk a try? Cheers!
