This article discusses how to drink Becherovka, its health benefits and side effects and its best substitute drinks. Read it through!
Becherovka is a traditional Czechoslovakian liquor that has been around since 1807! It is a herbal bitter made with a combination of secret ingredients, including aniseed and cinnamon. This tasty beverage has an alcohol content of 38%, making it stronger than most other liquors.
This distinctive spirit is believed to have originated in Karlovy Vary, also known as Carlsbad, a spa town located in western Bohemia. The first recipe was created by Josef Vitus Becher, who opened one of the first distilleries in the region to produce his signature drink. According to some accounts, he was inspired by local mineral waters used for medicinal purposes.
How to drink Becherovka
1. Mixing Becherovka and Coke
To make your own Becherovka & Coke, start by filling a glass with ice cubes. Pour one part Becherovka over the ice followed by two parts coke. If desired, you can finish off your drink with a few drops of lime juice or orange peel for added flavor.
Now sit back and enjoy this delicious combination! Not only will it taste amazing but you’ll also be able to experience all of its unique aromas and flavors.
2. Enjoying Becherovka Neat
Another way to enjoy this spirit is taking it neat, allowing for the full flavor profile to shine through. The unique blend of spices gives Becherovka a spicy-sweet taste that can be enjoyed on its own or as a mixer in cocktails.
To drink Becherovka neat, pour one shot into a glass over ice and let the aromas fill your senses. Take small sips and savor the flavor before swallowing—you’ll pick up hints of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, clove, and more
3. Mixing Becherovka and Tonic Water or Lemonade
The best part about this beverage is that you don’t need to be a mixologist to enjoy it. To get started, simply fill a glass with ice and add 1-2 shots of Becherovka. For an extra zesty kick, pour in some tonic water or lemonade. Stir until all ingredients are combined and garnish with fresh citrus slices.
4. Taking Becherovka in Vodka Martini or Margarita
One of the most exciting recipes is to combine it with vodka for a truly sophisticated twist on classic martinis or margaritas. If you’re looking for a flavorful new way to enjoy your favorite drinks, then here’s how to make a Becherovka drink!
To make a delicious Becherovka martini or margarita, start by combining 4 ounces of vodka and 2 ounces of Becherovka in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until combined and chilled.
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Best Becherovka substitute drinks
1. Peychaud’s
One great alternative is Peychaud’s, a fruity and spicy cocktail with notes of clove and nutmeg. This drink has been popular since the 1800s and is made from aniseed, gentian root, and a secret blend of spices.
It has a light gold color and tastes sweet with hints of vanilla, licorice, and citrus zest. Like Becherovka, this liqueur is often served neat as an after-dinner drink or used as an ingredient in many classic cocktails such as the Sazerac or Vieux Carre.
2. Green Chartreuse
Green Chartreuse is an excellent alternative to Becherovka thanks to its unique blend of herbs, spices, and plants. It has many of the same herbal notes that make Becherovka so popular, including juniper berries, licorice root, and angelica root.
It also offers other flavors such as honey and saffron which give it a unique complexity and depth of flavor. The drink also has a nice balance between sweet and bitter tastes that will keep your taste buds entertained throughout the night.
Becherovka health benefits
1. It improves digestion and reduces bloating
Firstly, Becherovka helps improve digestion and reduce bloating. Its combination of herbs and spices aid in breaking down food more effectively, reducing gas build-up in your stomach.
It can also act as an appetite suppressant so that you eat less than usual while still feeling satisfied. Secondly, this delicious drink aids in relieving stress and anxiety due to its calming effects. A few sips can help relax your mind and body after a tough day at work or school!
2. Decrease cholesterol levels
Not only does it taste great, but recent studies have shown that Becherovka can offer some impressive health benefits! One of those is its ability to help reduce cholesterol levels. Its main ingredients include aniseed, cinnamon, and star anise – all known for their ability to reduce bad cholesterol levels in the body.
An additional ingredient called valerian root may also contribute to reducing LDL (low-density lipoprotein) or ‘bad’ cholesterol levels as well as increasing HDL (high-density lipoprotein) or ‘good’ cholesterol levels.
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Becherovka side effects
a) Excessive consumption can lead to dehydration
But before you get too excited and dive into a bottle, it’s important to make sure that you’re aware of any potential risks associated with drinking Becherovka.
Just like with any alcoholic beverage, excessive consumption can lead to dehydration and other negative health consequences. That’s why it’s essential to be mindful while drinking this herbal concoction.
Also, there are reports of headaches, dizziness, and nausea occurring as a result of consuming too much Becherovka—so proceed with caution!
b) Can cause liver damage over time
The main ingredients in Becherovka are juniper berries and other herbs and spices, all of which have a variety of health benefits but can also be harmful if consumed in excess. Studies have found that drinking more than 2-3 drinks per week may increase your risk of developing cirrhosis or other types of liver damage.
So, if you’re looking to enjoy the unique taste of Becherovka, make sure you do so responsibly! Moderation is key to avoiding any potential side effects associated with this delicious drink.
Is Becherovka gluten-free?
The answer is a resounding YES! Becherovka is made with a combination of herbs and spices that create its distinct flavor.
While other liquors may contain wheat or barley products, this one contains none at all. It’s crafted using ingredients such as cinnamon bark and cloves which are naturally gluten-free – meaning everyone can enjoy it!
Plus, it’s low in sugar and only has around 20 calories per serving. So, if you’re looking for a unique alcoholic beverage that meets your dietary needs, consider checking Becherovka from the Czech Republic.
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