TIKI Tuesday: The Bearded Clam

I wanted to do some lighter posts and am going to strive to do a Tiki Tuesday, where I mix and discuss a particular Tiki drink.  I hope to not just do a how to recipe, but talk a bit about where it's from, history and other fun things.

That said, my first focus will be on the Bearded Clam, a drink created by the folks at the wonder Frankies in Las Vegas.  This is an awesome bar off strip that creates a combination of seedy, punk take on the standard tiki vibe and it is amazing.

The Bearded Clam is one of my favorite drinks, definitely fruity and sweet, but also with some complex herbal layering.  A little reminiscent of a mojito, this drink is not going to taste overly boozy, and is a nice pairing with a light dish.  I chose a hoisin glazed pork meatloaf with green beans.  Finally, I can't deny part of the allure of this drink is the mug associated with it.  Like the drink, it may initially feel a little simple, but the complexities soon follow.  And honestly, what says exotica better than a four armed woman bringing you drinks?

To start:  Ingredients:

10 mint leaves

4 lime wedges

1.5 ounces of light rum

1 ounce of simple syrup

1 ounce of passion fruit syrup

2 ounces of club soda

Garnish:  Raspberries and an mint sprig

STEP 1:  In a mixing glass, muddle the mint, lime, rum, and syrups.  I am lazy, and I did this in a clear measuring cup so I could gauge my pours.  Liquids first, then added everything else.  For the novice 'muddle' means to gently crush with a stick or a pestle or wooden stick.  You don't mash it to a paste, but you do want to 'bruise' the lime and mint so the juices flow together.  

STEP 2:  Ice and shake.  I threw some of my han solo ice cube in there, capped it with an old fashioned glass, and shook it up, primarily because I didn't feel like breaking out my mixer.

Step 3:  Throw some more ice into a 14 ounce double old fashioned in, and pour your drink in.  You should have room at the top to fill it up with the club soda.  Give it a whirl with a mixer, add your garnish, and presto.. a bearded clam!  Enjoy!