Chinese Screwdriver

Zhongshi Luosi Qizi (中式螺丝起子)

Refreshingly sweet, orange citrus is combined with a powerful hit of Chinese white liquor in this Asian fusion inspired cocktail.

Whenever I think back to family meals in Sichuan, I always remember fondly sitting around the table eating spicy food while periodically toasting members at the table. Shot after shot of Chinese White Liquor would be drunk and chased with Minute Maid Orange Juice. I combined my memories of that experience into this classic cocktail.

A Screwdriver is a well-known cocktail even in China. It’s known by its literal translation Screwdriver Cocktail (螺丝刀鸡尾酒) as well as the more simplified Screwdriver (螺丝起子). This cocktail can be requested at any bar in China, typically with Vodka and Orange Juice. The quality and type of Orange Juice can vary significantly from 100% not-from-concentrate Juice to extra sweet ‘orange drink’ containing little actual fruit juice. As for Vodka, bar staples like Grey Goose and Smirnoff are pretty standard. The biggest twist in this Chinese version is simply replacing the Vodka with Chinese White Liquor.

Freshly squeezed Orange Juice and top-shelf Chinese White Liquor would definitely elevate this cocktail to bar status. However, cheap White Liquor and Minute Maid Orange Juice from a bottle unlock a somewhat nostalgic place in my mind. In true Chinese fashion, this cocktail is made ‘neat’ without any added ice. However, for those who like there cocktails frosty cold, feel free to make this in a highball glass filled with ice – i.e., on the rocks. This drink can be quite strong so having it ice cold will help it go down smoother. The ideal ratio is 2 oz of Chinese White Liquor to 4 oz of Orange Juice. As noted, Chinese White Liquor can be quite strong so feel free to adjust the ratio to 1.5 oz of Chinese White Liquor and 4.5 oz of Orange Juice.

Prep Time: 5 min

Cook Time: 0 min

Total Time: 5 min

Serving: 2 people

Ingredients

Garnish
1 Orange

Per Drink
1.5 oz (44) to 2 oz (60 ml) Chinese White Liquor (Baijiu 白酒)
4 oz (120 ml) Orange Juice

Directions

1.) Slice the Orange in half from end to end. Place an Orange half cut side down on the cutting board with the ends facing to the sides. Cut down across this half at 1-inch intervals to get perfect cocktail Orange garnishes. Set these aside in a bowl.

2.) Pour in the Chinese White Liquor into a rocks glass and top with the Orange Juice.

3.) Garnish the glass with an Orange slice and serve the Chinese Screwdriver immediately.

 

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