This Is What Gives Cajun Lemonade Its Spicy Kick

If you're looking for a refreshing cocktail to create a stir this season, try the unique combination of spicy and sweet flavors in a glass of Cajun lemonade. The seemingly contrasting flavor notes work surprisingly well together, creating a kick of sweet heat that will impress your guests at any get-together.

Cajun lemonade is based on the French Quarter bar Napoleon House's cocktail called Pimm's Cup. In the Cajun version of this drink, a base of Pimm's No. 1, lemonade, 7Up, and simple syrup is spiced up with vodka or white rum and a dash of Tabasco sauce (which is made using tabasco peppers). However, you can utilize any of your favorite Louisiana hot sauces.

The pleasingly red tabasco peppers contain capsaicin, which will give the cocktail its heat. When consumed, the hot sensation is then tamed by the sweetness of the lemon and sugar. This blend creates an interesting biochemical reaction, which is one reason the jolt of spice in this cocktail works with the sweetness of lemonade.

When drunk or eaten, the heat of capsaicin releases endorphins, which are hormones that create pleasure. Sugar consumption also releases endorphins. The main ingredients in Cajun lemonade essentially create an overwhelming positive response, so it's no wonder the blend of flavors in this cocktail tastes so good to us! The combination of spicy and sweet has a long history in the culinary world, in which the flavors were observed creating a harmonious balance. Sweet and spicy sesame chicken is one example of a Chinese dish that utilizes this classic blend of tastes.

If you' like to try other ways of creating an alcoholic beverage utilizing the spicy flavor, there are numerous ways to adjust the heat in cocktails, such as creating an infusion of peppers in your alcohol of choice and then blending the perfect drink. If a drink without alcohol is more to your liking, though, try a simple blend of lemonade and hot sauce. Adding one or two shakes of Louisiana hot sauce to a favorite variety of store-bought lemonade will add that pleasing sizzle to your sweet drink. If you enjoy the heat, consider adding a couple extra shakes of your hot sauce.