master-cooks | The Expert Approved Cocktail Pairings To Try With Brunch Eggs

Brunch is an opportunity to blend breakfast favorites with a touch of midday indulgence, and the right cocktail can enhance the flavors of classic egg dishes. For eggs Benedict, a traditional mimosa, with its citrusy brightness, complements the richness of hollandaise sauce. The bubbly effervescence of Champagne cuts through the dish's creamy elements, creating a balanced taste. If you prefer scrambled eggs, a Bloody Mary is an excellent choice. The savory, spicy notes of this cocktail pair well with the eggs’ subtle flavors, while garnishes like celery or olives add an extra layer of taste. For those who enjoy an omelet packed with veggies and cheese, try a refreshing Bellini. The fruitiness of the peach purée in a Bellini contrasts beautifully with the savory elements of the omelet. Lastly, a frittata, with its hearty and versatile nature, goes well with a light, crisp white wine spritzer. The wine’s acidity and bubbles provide a refreshing counterpoint to the dish's density. These expert-approved pairings not only elevate the dining experience but also highlight how the right drink can bring out the best in brunch egg dishes, making your meal both satisfying and memorable.

Mimosas are a brunch classic for good reason

A common thread among all the experts' opinions was the idea that brunch cocktails should be light, especially since egg dishes are often rich and hearty. They particularly emphasized champagne cocktails, with Amanda Davenport noting, "A bubbly cocktail pairs wonderfully with the texture of eggs." Additionally, champagne can aid digestion during brunch, which is especially helpful if you've had a night of drinking. Jayson Goldstein remarked, "The bubbles will help settle your stomach and prepare you for that hangover meal your body craves."

Both Goldstein and Charly Naranjo pointed out the popularity of the mimosa, a champagne cocktail that appears on many brunch menus. Its widespread presence might lead one to believe that mimosas are the quintessential brunch cocktail, and it's easy to understand why. The drink combines orange juice, a staple of breakfast, with bubbly, making it even lighter and more refreshing.

Citrus is king for brunch cocktails

In line with the light cocktail theme, experts recommend citrus flavors for brunch beverages. "You want something bright and fresh, with crisp notes," says Nicole Brisson, who enjoys a Honey Bee cocktail during brunch. This drink combines the tartness of lemon juice with sweet honey syrup and is typically made with rum, though Brisson opts for gin at Bar Zazu. "It features lovely, vibrant flavors that complement rather than overwhelm the meal," the chef notes.

Another cocktail that received several endorsements from our experts is the lesser-known French 75. Despite its name, which references an old French artillery piece, this drink is surprisingly light. It consists of champagne, gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. The inclusion of gin gives it a bit more strength than a mimosa, but the champagne and citrus keep it refreshing. Other citrus-based cocktails, such as a Buck's Fizz (thought to be the inspiration for mimosas) or a classic hurricane, would also be suitable choices. The key takeaway is to maintain a light and vibrant profile.

The Expert-Approved Cocktail Pairings To Try With Brunch Eggs

Mimosas are a brunch classic for good reason

Citrus is king for brunch cocktails

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