AAPI Heritage Month: Pairings from our Founder
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month, which is something that can be celebrated in a variety of ways. Our founder, Dominique Gonzales, is Pacific Islander, and this month we want to celebrate her heritage through some pairings of traditional Filipino dishes that Dominique enjoys. Try out these pairings and let us know what you think on our instagram, @root_elixirs.
For our first pairing, we decided to create an appetizer food and drink pairing that can be served as a snack or before a meal. Lumpia, a traditional Filipino spring roll, is served either deep fried or fresh, and is usually served with a sweet chili dipping sauce. This delicious bite is surprisingly easy to make, and can also be found pre-made at many asian supermarkets. To make your own Lumpia, try out this recipe. Alongside a sweet and savory dish, we decided to pair a complementary sweet and savory beverage.
Twist on the classic “Puny*ta” Filipino Cocktail
- 4 oz Root Elixirs pineapple passionfruit
- 2 oz Calwise Spirits Blonde Rum
- 3 oz unsweet iced tea
- Garnish with dried pineapple
The second pairing we decided on is with a very popular traditional Filipino dish, chicken adobo. Chicken adobo is a delicious, tangy, slightly sweet and spicy dish made by slowly simmering chicken legs in a rich, delicious sauce. This dish is a staple of many Filipino gatherings, and it’s definitely that way for a reason. While adobo is also relatively easy to make (recipe here), most Filipino restaurants also have adobo on the menu. To pair with a flavorful dish like adobo, we recommend using a traditional Filipino fruit, Calamansi. Calamansi is a specific type of citrus native to the Philippines, as well as parts of Southwest and East Asia. For the folks who are staying sober, here’s a great mocktail option to enjoy.
Calamansi “Mojito” Mocktail
- 1/4 fresh Calamansi, muddled with sugar
- 5 oz Root Elixirs Ginger beer
- 2 oz Lyres White Cane Spirit
- Garnish with fresh mint and Calamansi slice
These pairings are great options for your next dinner party, cocktail or mocktail hour, or casual hang-out. Make sure to follow @root_elixirs on instagram for more delicious pairings, and happy AAPI heritage month!