The Fried Chicken And Watermelon Cocktail

3.3 from 24 ratings

Two things that seemingly don't go together — in your drinks, no less — end up being pretty delicious in this cocktail. Made by Josh Goldman from Los Angeles' anticipated new restaurant, Mess Hall, this drink was perfect for the Finger Lickin’ Good Fried Chicken Fest. After all, who doesn't want a piece of fried chicken after a sweet cocktail?

Servings

servings

Ingredients

2 ounce bourbon
2 chunks (1 inch-by-1 inch) watermelon
3/4 ounce lemon juice
3/4 ounce simple syrup
5 pound chicken skin
1/2 quart buttermilk
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne

Directions

Lightly muddle all ingredients in a tin. Long hard shake, and double strain into a coup. Place chicken skin garnish (recipe below) on the side of the coup.
Trim the fat off of the chicken skin. Only use pieces larger than 1-inch-by-1-inch. Place chicken pieces into a plastic container and cover with buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.
Melt enough shortening (over low heat) to come just 1/3-inch up the side of a 12-inch cast-iron skillet or heavy fry pan. Once shortening liquefies, raise heat to 325 degrees F. Do not allow oil to go over 325 degrees F.
Drain chicken in a colander. Combine salt, pepper, and cayenne. Liberally season chicken with this mixture. Dredge chicken in flour and shake off excess.
Fry in oil until golden brown. Chicken skins will curl when fried. Drain chicken on a rack over a sheet pan. Do not set chicken directly on paper towels or brown paper bags.