Electric Current Fizz: A Modern Twist on a Classic Cocktail

The Electric Current Fizz is a cocktail with deep roots in the late 19th century, originally featured in George Kappeler's 1895 book, Modern American Drinks.

 

In its original form, this drink was part of the "bracers" family—tonics believed to have medicinal properties by the heavy-drinking public of that era.

 

Essentially, it was a Silver Fizz accompanied by an egg yolk seasoned with vinegar, served on the side.

 

Fast forward to today, and Melbourne's renowned bartender, Michael Madrusan, has reimagined this classic.

 

In his modern rendition, the vinegar is replaced with two staples from the Bloody Mary repertoire: Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco.

 

This contemporary version offers a harmonious blend of flavors, balancing the gin's botanicals with the tartness of lemon and the subtle sweetness of simple syrup.

 

The egg white contributes a silky texture, while the soda water adds a refreshing effervescence.

 

Serving the seasoned egg yolk alongside the drink introduces a savory element, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

 

For those eager to recreate this innovative cocktail at home, here's the recipe:

 

Ingredients (Serves 1):

 

- 2 ounces London dry gin

 

- 3/4 ounce lemon juice

 

- 3/4 ounce simple syrup (1:1 ratio of sugar to water)

 

- 1 egg white (reserve the yolk for garnish)

 

- 1 ounce well-carbonated soda water

 

For the Prairie Oyster Garnish:

 

- Reserved egg yolk

 

- A pinch of salt

 

- A pinch of black pepper

 

- Dash of Worcestershire sauce

 

- Dash of Tabasco sauce

 

Instructions:

 

1. In a shaker, combine the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white.

 

2. Add a small piece of ice and shake vigorously until the ice dissolves; this helps emulsify the egg white.

 

3. Fill the shaker with more ice and shake hard.

 

4. Strain the mixture into a fizz glass or a short Collins glass.

 

5. Top with soda water.

 

6. For the garnish, carefully place the reserved egg yolk into a shot glass, ensuring it remains intact.

 

7. Season the yolk with salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco to taste.

 

8. Serve the cocktail alongside the seasoned egg yolk.

 

When consuming, the idea is to first enjoy the Prairie Oyster by swallowing the seasoned yolk whole, followed by sipping the Electric Current Fizz.

 

This sequence offers a unique interplay of flavors and textures, making for a memorable drinking experience.

 

Michael Madrusan's reinterpretation of the Electric Current Fizz is a testament to the evolving nature of cocktail culture, blending historical elements with modern tastes to create something truly special.

 

Whether you're a cocktail aficionado or a curious enthusiast, this drink is sure to electrify your palate.