Chicago Handshake (Illinois) – Malört Beer Shot Combo
Taste the gritty Chicago Handshake: a Malört shot chased by beer—will you embrace Illinois's resilient ritual?
I’m introducing the Chicago Handshake, Illinois’s gritty ritual of downing a 1.5-ounce shot of bitter Malört liqueur chased by a cold beer like Pabst Blue Ribbon. This mid-20th century tradition emerged from Chicago’s working-class bars, symbolizing resilience and camaraderie. To prepare, measure the Malört, take the shot first, then follow with a quick beer swig for balance. You’ll find tips on variations, like swapping beers or adding lime, just ahead.
History
The Chicago Handshake, a beloved cocktail combo of Malört—a bitter, wormwood-based liqueur with Swedish origins popularized in Chicago—and a chaser beer like Pabst Blue Ribbon, emerged in the mid-20th century as a quintessential part of the city’s working-class bar culture, symbolizing resilience and local grit.
Regionally, variations might swap beers for local brews or add twists like a lemon wedge, highlighting Chicago’s diverse immigrant influences and serving as a marker of authenticity in Midwestern dive bars.
This tradition holds significance as a rite of passage for newcomers, testing tolerance and fostering camaraderie.
It’s commonly served at casual social events, sports gatherings, or as a welcoming shot in Chicago taverns, embodying the city’s unpretentious spirit.
Ingredients
– Shot Glass and Beer Glass: Sure, these aren’t ingredients per se, but can we talk about how they’re the quiet MVPs?
Grab a standard 1.5-ounce shot glass for the Malört – precise, simple, and oh-so-necessary for getting that portion just right without second-guessing yourself.
Pair it with a regular beer glass or can, something sturdy and easy to hold, because in the world of casual drinks, the right tools make you feel like you’ve got it all figured out, even if deep down we’re all just winging it a little.
Who knew something so basic could add that extra layer of, dare I say, sophisticated fun?
Preparation
Let’s jump into making this classic combo, where a shot of that infamous Malört meets a cold beer for a taste adventure that’s equal parts challenge and reward.
First things first, you’ll need to measure out 1.5 ounces of Malört into your shot glass—think of it as arming yourself for a flavor showdown, because precision here keeps things from getting too wild.
Once that’s sorted, grab your beer and get ready for the main event; it’s all about that perfect pour and pairing to make the experience smooth, even if the taste makes you pause and wonder what you’ve gotten into.
Now, for the step-by-step action—because who doesn’t love a good list to guide you through?
- Step 1: Pour 1.5 ounces of Malört into the shot glass, making sure it’s level so you don’t end up with a surprise extra sip that might leave you rethinking your drink choices.
- Step 2: Open your beer and pour it into a glass if it’s not already, giving it a quick chill if needed—nothing fancy, just enough to have that crisp contrast ready.
- Step 3: Take the shot of Malört first, then follow it up with a swig of beer to chase away the bite, turning what could be a tough moment into a satisfying ritual.
And just like that, you’ve got your Chicago Handshake ready to go, a simple setup that packs a punch of personality.
You might find yourself chuckling at how something so straightforward can feel like a mini adventure, especially if you’re new to this and double-checking your measurements like a pro.
Keep in mind, it’s all about timing and enjoyment, setting the stage for those tips and twists we’ll cover next.
Tips and Variations
If you’re diving into the Chicago Handshake for the first time, remember that getting your measurements just right can make all the difference—grab a jigger to pour that 1.5 ounces of Malört precisely, because who wants a surprise that leaves you puckering more than necessary, right?
For a fun twist, swap in a lighter beer like a pilsner instead of the usual lager to soften the herbal punch of Malört, or maybe experiment with adding a splash of lime juice to your shot for a zesty chaser that turns the whole ritual into a playful game of flavor roulette, keeping things fresh and, let’s face it, a little less intimidating for your taste buds.
Precision is key, though, so don’t skimp on that jigger if you’re aiming for that perfect balance without turning your night into a comedy of errors.
Hi There! I'm Stephanie Miller: Elementary teacher from Columbus, OH sharing grandma's treasured American recipes! 50 years young, yoga enthusiast & kitchen storyteller. Welcome to my food family! 🍰❤️
