Flaming Dr. Pepper is a mixed drink that originated in the United States in the early 1970s. The drink is strongly associated with Texas – particularly the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex area – although its exact origin is unclear.
Reports vary about its origin story, but it’s generally accepted that the drink was created in the early 70s in either Dallas or Forth Worth, Texas. Some people believe it was invented in the parking lot of Leon’s Lounge music venue as a way to inject a little more “spice” into the regular beer selection.
Other reports say that it was invented by a military serviceman in Austin, Texas who was homesick for his hometown bar’s signature drink – the Flaming Dr Pepper.
The ingredients of a Flaming Dr Pepper are surprisingly simple: a shot of Amaretto and a glass of beer. The process of serving the drink, however, is somewhat theatrical. The ingredients are shaken together and then poured over a cherry, which has been soaked in a high-proof liquor (usually Everclear).
This causes the drink to ignite, creating a dramatic visual effect. While it’s flaming, the drink is passed around the table, allowing each person to sip from the flaming glass.
Flaming Dr Pepper has become an iconic part of the drinking culture in Texas and the Midwestern US. It can be found on menus at pubs and bars, and at parties and other social events.
Who invented the Flaming Dr. Pepper?
The Flaming Dr. Pepper drink is a unique alcoholic concoction that combines a shot of vodka or grain alcohol with a beer. The vodka is usually set on fire and then dropped into the beer just before the drink is served.
The resulting drink is a creamy, sweet, and slightly smoky beverage. Although the origins of the drink are unclear, it is generally agreed upon that the Flaming Dr. Pepper was first invented by Ted Pizio, a bartender from Marshall, Texas in 1975.
Pizio created the drink after a customer suggested the combination, and it quickly became a popular order among locals in the area. After the invention of the Flaming Dr. Pepper at Pizio’s bar, similar drinks began to appear in other bars across the United States, Europe, and Australia.
In recent years, the unique concoction has become extremely popular among college students and millennials.
What is the point of flaming drinks?
The point of flaming drinks is to add a layer of flavor to the drink, as well as a bit of showmanship. Flaming drinks are often made with higher-proof spirits, and when the alcohol is ignited, it gives off vapors that have a different flavor and smell than the undiluted liquor.
Heating the drink with fire can also bring out subtle flavors that you may not get with a standard drink. Additionally, flaming drinks can look really exciting and entertaining, especially when done correctly.
Why do bartenders light drinks on fire?
Bartenders light drinks on fire for several reasons. One is to add a unique visual presentation to the drink. For example, a dramatic flambé can be used to add a special presentation to certain cocktails, such as a Jungle Bird or Flaming Dr. Pepper.
It also gives a dramatic flair to food presentations or other cocktail creations.
Lighting drinks on fire can also enhance flavor in certain cocktails. For example, igniting a rum mixture can bring out the smokiness in the spirit. The smoky flavor can then be infused into the drink while the heat caramelizes some of the other elements.
The high heat of the flame can also release the flavors of ingredients such as citrus oils, liquors and liqueurs, creating a powerful and flavorful liquid that’s only possible when flames are incorporated.
Additionally, bartenders often light drinks to create a sense of “theater” for the guests, especially for special occasions. Guests may feel that their drinks are extra special when the bartender uses a dramatic flambé technique to add drama and excitement to the experience.
In short, bartenders light drinks on fire for several reasons, including to add drama and unique visuals, to enhance flavors, and to create a sense of “theater” for special occasions.
Is it safe to drink flaming shots?
No, it is not safe to drink flaming shots. When any kind of liquid is set on fire, it produces an open flame which is extremely dangerous. Not only can the flame cause serious burns, but when a flammable liquid is used, it can also cause an explosion.
When a flaming shot is consumed, you may accidentally swallow the burning liquid which can can cause further harm. Additionally, the fumes produced by the fire may cause irritation to the throat and lungs.
For these reasons, it is highly advised that you avoid consuming flaming shots.
Does lighting a drink on fire remove alcohol?
No, lighting a drink on fire does not remove the alcohol content. It will, however, slightly burn off the alcohol, but due to the high temperature of the flame, only a small amount will be reduced. The burnt alcohol will remain present in the drink in some form, but the smell and taste of it will be noticeably altered.
Additionally, the process of lighting alcohol on fire carries a high risk of creating a potentially dangerous flaming liquid. Therefore, it is not recommended to do this and most states have laws prohibiting the intentional lighting of alcoholic beverages.
How do you drink a flaming drink?
In order to drink a flaming drink, you need to have the right equipment and the right precautions in place. You should always make sure to have a fire extinguisher handy, avoid using flammable materials, and only use the flame for a brief moment.
First, gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a clean glass or copper mug, a metal spoon, a flame-proof mat, and a shot glass. Then, pour your drink into the shot glass and ignite it using a long match or a butane torch.
Place the mug upside down on the flame-proof mat, with the spoon placed in the mug’s handle. Carefully pour the drink from the shot glass into the upside-down mug held by the spoon. The flame should go out when the mug is filled, as the heat and oxygen is extinguished.
After it has gone out, you can flip the mug right-side up and drink the flaming concoction.
Remember to always practice fire safety when drinking a flaming drink. Make sure to always shake out the match before disposing of it, and never leave the flame unattended. Additionally, have a fire extinguisher nearby, in the event that the flame does not extinguish itself quickly.
What drinking alcohol is flammable?
Yes, alcohol is flammable! Liquor or distilled spirits like vodka, whiskey, or rum can generally reach at least 40% alcohol, but some can reach up to 95%. Any drink containing a high amount of alcohol will be highly flammable and can lead to serious burns if handled improperly.
It is important to be aware of the alcohol content of the beverage you are consuming and to handle it with caution. When mixed with other liquids, the alcohol content can be reduced, however, it is still flammable and needs to be treated with care.
It is not safe to drink and drive with any alcoholic beverage, no matter what the amount of alcohol is present.
What two drinks make Dr Pepper?
Dr Pepper is a commercial carbonated sweetened soft drink that is traditionally made with a blend of 23 flavors, which is kept a closely guarded secret. Although there is speculation about what the two main ingredients might be, no one knows for sure since the recipe has been closely guarded by the Dr Pepper Company since its invention in 1885.
Commonly accepted ingredients include carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid, caramel color, sodium benzoate, and natural and artificial flavors. It is believed that the main flavors are prune juice, cherries and possibly a hint of licorice.
Other ingredients might include sugar, caffeine, potassium benzoate, and ascorbic acid.
What shot do you set on fire?
The most common type of shot that is typically set on fire is a flaming shot. Flaming shots require hard alcohol, such as rum or whiskey, and some type of combustible liquid, such as 151 proof rum or high-proof vodka.
When taken, the shot is ignited and then quickly consumed. The drinker must drink the flaming shot quickly, as the alcohol will burn off quickly, leaving an unpleasant taste. Flaming shots can be dangerous, and the flames produced can burn skin, clothing and surrounding surfaces.
Therefore, it is important to always be cautious and exercise caution when attempting any type of flaming shot.
