The White Russian, A.K.A the Caucasian, is one of my favorite drinks. As a bartender in SoCal I made hundreds of them. In my lifetime I have consumed countless White Russians. Ten years ago, in deer camp, I made Caucasians for the boys–it immediately became a tradition.
After years of experimenting I think I’m finally satisfied with my perfect, simple, recipe.
Two things are a must: crushed ice and Kahlua. The crushed ice because, well, you have to eat all the yummy ice while drinking, and after finishing, your White Russian. And the Kahula because it just wouldn’t be the same.
The other two ingredients, cream and vodka, are negotiable. I like Ketel One, because it’s smooth and has a natural sweetness to it. And pick a beautiful organic cream like this one. But in a pinch, half and half will do.
Presentation: I think we should stick with a theme here, that being the classic Jeff Bridges film “The Big Lebowski”. Throughout the movie, The Dude only drinks White Russians in a “lowball” or “rocks” glass. So in deference to The Dude, please use one of these glasses.
The recipe is simple:
2 parts vodka
1 part Kahlua
1 part cream
Start with the rocks glass, and fill two thirds with crushed ice. Add the vodka and Kahula, and then top with cream. Give it a light stir–this is important. You want to be able to see the lovely swirled light and dark liquids. If you overstir you’re left with a brown mess. Embrace the swirl. Serve immediately. Best enjoyed in a bowling alley with friends.
“Right, Dude.”