Doctor Funk No. 2

Pro tips

• Squeeze fresh lime juice immediately before mixing to preserve acidity and brightness.
• Chill the glass with ice before building the drink to keep the cocktail cold longer.
• Add the absinthe last as a float or stir briefly for subtle integration—do not over-mix.
• Use quality grenadine (homemade or top-shelf brands) to avoid cloying sweetness from cheap versions.

Substitutions

• Dark rum → Jamaican overproof rum (increases heat and intensity)
• Grenadine → Pomegranate juice (lighter sweetness; reduce to 3/8 oz and add 1/8 oz simple syrup for balance)
• Falernum → Omit and add 1/4 oz simple syrup plus 2–3 drops of clove bitters (approximation only)

Storage & make-ahead

This is a fresh cocktail meant to be consumed immediately. Do not store pre-mixed.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · bar spoon · coupe or rocks glass

Can I add more absinthe to this cocktail?

Yes. The original recipe uses just a dash, but you can increase it to taste for a more pronounced anise flavor and aromatic intensity.

What is falernum and can I substitute it?

Falernum is a spiced syrup with almond, clove, and lime notes. There is no direct substitute, but you can omit it and add 1/4 oz simple syrup plus a pinch of ground cloves for a similar effect.

Should I use fresh lime juice or bottled?

Always use fresh lime juice. Bottled juice lacks the brightness needed to balance the sweetness of the grenadine and falernum.

What type of dark rum works best?

Use a full-bodied aged dark rum such as Jamaican or demerara rum (e.g., Myers's or El Dorado) for rich molasses and spice notes that complement the drink.

How much soda water should I add?

Top the drink with soda water to taste, typically 2–4 oz, depending on desired dilution and carbonation level.