For many, a New Year's Eve celebration isn't complete without something alcoholic. Many of these Asian cocktail recipes (plus a few Polynesian classics) come from Colleen Graham, About.com's Guide to Cocktails:
In the Red Lotus cocktail the distinct flavor of lychee is accented with the lighter taste of cranberry. It's an interesting play of flavors that is both intensely sweet and delicately refreshing.
Created in honor of the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympic Summer Games, here is a fun drink that takes a twist on the traditional Beillini by replacing the Peach Schnapps with Lychee Liquor. This recipe comes from mixologist Andrew Krauss at New York City’s China 1 Antique Restaurant and Lounge. A reader has given it a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Here is an Asian take on the Bloody Mary, made with chili garlic sauce and Tsingtao Lager, from Chef Martin Yan. Makes 1 cocktail.
This luscious and sweet cocktail features Lichido Liqueur, a fruity blend with vodka, Cognac, lychee, guava essences and white peach juice. The garnish is a single lychee which can be found, canned or fresh, at most Asian markets. If you're a fan of lychees you will truly appreciate the flavors of this unique variation of the Martini and its signature liqueur.
A beer cocktail with a twist, this drink combines the smooth flavor of Tsingtao Pure Draft with the refreshing taste of ginger. This Ginger Beer Fizz recipe is by Chef Martin Yan.
Developed in Singapore in the early 1900's, the Singapore Sling is a smooth, slow, sweet cocktail. This recipe is just one variation.
Mai Tai translates from Tahitian to mean "Out of this World." A fitting description for this cocktail.
A pineapple and coconut delight for hot days, the Chi-Chi is a wonderful tropical frozen cocktail that is something a little different than the average Margarita.
Another drink made with litchi liqueur.
Finally, for guests who don't drink alcohol, here is a mango flavored variation of the classic Orange Julius.
Our Guide to Cocktails says that, when mixed, this punch looks like a tranquil blue lagoon and has the potential to be a stunning presentation with the right punch bowl and decorations.
