Mardi Gras Cocktails: From Low-Proof to Drinks with a Kick

As the Mardi Gras celebrations get underway in New Orleans, it's the perfect excuse to dust down those bartending skills, and get muddling, shaking and stirring, wherever you are.

Below we've rounded up some of our best mocktails and low-proof cocktails, from the marga-cheater to the LOWgroni, as well as the fail-safe three-ingredient classics that all say it's party time.

And, if you want some great food to go with your cocktail menu, check out Mardi Gras food you can eat at home.

While you're working your bar magic, why not listen to our new podcast: Yankee goes Gumbo.

Mardi Gras Cocktails

Low-Proof Cocktails and Mocktails

Marga-cheater

If you want to tame a classic Margherita, try the Marga-cheater with the same flavour profile but without the alcoholic kick. To make a perfect Marga-cheater, all you need is 1 1/4 oz tequila, 3/4 oz triple sec, 1/2 oz fresh lime juice, salt for rimming the glass and a slice of lime. Pairs well with tacos and pico de gallo.

Watch how to make a Marga-cheater in the clip below:

LOWjito Mojito

If you love this traditional Cuban highball, but not the foggy start to the morning after, try the low-alcohol mojito, or the LOWijto as we call it, which captures those zingy flavours, without the headache. All you need is 1 1/2 oz Cuban rum, 3/4 oz fresh lime juice, 3 bar spoons of white cane sugar, 3 sprigs of fresh mint and sparkling water.

Find out how it's done in the clip below:

CosLOWpolitan

The ever-popular cosmopolitan is given a low-alcohol makeover in this tried and tested version, the perfect cosLOWpolitan which retains the thrill without the forgetfulness. You will need 1/2 oz squeezed lime, 1/2 oz triple sec, 1 oz vodka, 3 oz cranberry juice, orange peel and ice.

LOWgroni

If an Italian negroni says 'aperitivo' time to you, try our sweet and bitter alternative in a LOWgroni. It's just as balanced, but without the hazy after-effects. All you need is 1 oz red vermouth, 1 oz bitters, 1 oz gin, half a slice of fresh orange and ice.