Kampot Pepper Tamarind Ginger Fizz

Best pepper to use: Black Kampot Pepper
Servings: 1 drink
Total time: 7 minutes
Type: Mocktail, with cocktail option

This drink is inspired by flavors many Cambodians know well: tamarind, ginger, lime, and pepper. It is tangy, lightly sweet, spicy-warm, and refreshing. The tamarind gives the drink a deep sour note, the ginger adds heat, and freshly cracked Kampot pepper finishes it with aroma and warmth.

Ingredients

For one drink

• 1 tablespoon tamarind concentrate or tamarind paste

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• 1–2 teaspoons honey, palm sugar syrup, or simple syrup

• ½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger

• ⅛ teaspoon freshly cracked Black Kampot Pepper

• ½ cup cold sparkling water

• Ice

For garnish

• Lime slice

• Mint, basil, or cilantro

• Tiny pinch of freshly cracked Kampot pepper on top

Cocktail option

Add 1.5 oz dark rum, bourbon, tequila, or gin before topping with sparkling water.

Instructions

1. Make the base

In a glass, mix the tamarind, lime juice, honey or syrup, and grated ginger until smooth.

Taste it before adding the sparkling water. It should be tangy, lightly sweet, and a little sharp.

2. Add the Kampot pepper

Add a small pinch of freshly cracked Black Kampot Pepper.

Do not add too much at first. The pepper should come through at the end, not overpower the drink.

3. Add ice and sparkling water

Fill the glass with ice. Pour in the sparkling water and stir gently.

4. Garnish and serve

Add a lime slice and fresh herbs. Finish with one tiny crack of Kampot pepper on top right before serving.