Suffering Bastard: A Remedy with a Kick

Name: Suffering Bastard: A Remedy with a Kick
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 7 min
Yield: 1 cocktail
Cuisine: Egypt
Ingredients: 30 ml cognac v.s.o.p.; 30 ml dry gin; 15 ml fresh lime juice; 3 dashes angostura bitter; to-top ginger beer

BY: Mary Saunders

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updated 1 Dec 2023

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IBA Cocktail

The Suffering Bastard isn’t just a cocktail, it’s a piece of history. Created during a time of war, this drink embodies creativity under pressure, combining ingredients with ingenuity to craft a refreshing and robust remedy for the weary.

The Suffering Bastard is a vibrant and restorative cocktail that blends the smoothness of Brandy with the sharpness of Gin. Enhanced by a splash of Lime Juice and Angostura Bitters, its bold yet balanced flavours are topped with Ginger Ale, adding a refreshing fizz.

Served over ice in a highball glass and garnished with a lime wedge, the Suffering Bastard delivers a zesty, invigorating sip. Its unique combination of flavours makes it both a standout classic and a reliable cure for what ails you, from hangovers to a long day’s fatigue.

“

a spirited mix of bold flavours and a touch of medicinal charm.

”

Did you know that Suffering Bastard...

... was originally created as a hangover remedy for Allied troops during World War II?

Who invented this cocktail

Joe Scialom, at the Shepheard’s Hotel in Cairo, 1942, during World War II.

The origin and history of "Suffering Bastard"

The Suffering Bastard was created in 1942 by Joe Scialom, a bartender at the Shepheard’s Hotel in Cairo, during World War II. Known for his resourcefulness, Scialom designed the cocktail to alleviate the hangovers of British officers stationed in Egypt.

Initially called the "Suffering Bar Steward," the drink quickly gained popularity and was renamed for its strong, head-clearing effect. Its reputation grew as troops spread the word, and it soon became a wartime favourite. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience and ingenuity, celebrated in bars worldwide.

Bartender Tips for making the perfect "Suffering Bastard"

To make the perfect Suffering Bastard, try these tips:

Use a high-quality Brandy and Gin for a smoother base.
Freshly squeezed Lime Juice elevates the drink’s zesty profile.
Stir gently to mix, ensuring the Ginger Ale retains its fizz.
Serve over a generous amount of ice for the ultimate refreshment.
Garnish with a lime wedge or mint sprig for a fragrant finish.

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"Suffering Bastard" Variations

Replace Ginger Ale with Ginger Beer for a spicier kick.
Add a splash of Cointreau for a citrusy twist.
Experiment with Bourbon instead of Brandy for a smokier profile.
Serve in a copper mug for a chilled, rustic presentation.
Top with soda water for a lighter, less sweet option.

Whether you’re nursing a hangover or simply looking for a bold and refreshing cocktail, the Suffering Bastard is your perfect companion.

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Current Comments: 6

Alexey33

8 Jun 2024

The ratio of spirits to lime juice is key - too much citrus masks the subtle cognac notes. Try an aged gin to add more complexity to the base spirits.

Maria L.

27 May 2024

Using homemade ginger syrup with soda instead of ginger beer gives more control over the spice level. Japanese gin adds interesting yuzu notes to the mix.

CarlosS

14 May 2024

A splash of dark rum floated on top adds richness. Try switching the cognac for bourbon - different but equally delicious. Strong ginger beer is crucial for the right balance.

Julia87.

1 May 2024

Experimented with different cognac-to-gin ratios. Found 2:1 cognac to gin gives richer depth while maintaining the gin's botanical notes. Peychaud's bitters work well too.

David M.

18 Apr 2024

The gin choice matters - go with something juniper-forward to cut through the ginger beer. Fresh lime juice is essential, bottled won't give the same brightness.

Isabella G.

5 Apr 2024

The VSOP cognac makes a huge difference in smoothness. Try a spicier ginger beer like Fever Tree for more kick. A dash of absinthe adds fascinating complexity.