The Curry Leaf Collins: Refreshing, Herbal & Spicy

Where tradition becomes playful with innovation, you are left with something incredible, such as the Curry Leaf Collins, a cocktail (or mocktail) that revolutionizes what it means to be revitalized. At Hussain Catering, where South Asian spices of flavors meet modern presentation, we are huge fans of taking the traditional and making it new again. And this cocktail is just one example of how traditional cocktails and delicate herbs can blend for something truly unforgettable.

What Is a Curry Leaf Collins?

Imagine the crisp crack of a Tom Collins—now with the spicy heat of fresh curry leaves. Mix in citrus a hint of sugar, and plant complexity, and you have a beverage that calms the mind yet provokes the senses. Serve it however you please—over gin or as an alcohol-free soda-based cooler—it’s revitalizing, herby, and in-your-face bold. It’s not just a beverage. It’s an experience.

Standout Ingredients

And now for flavor. The Curry Leaf Collins is all about harmony, where Eastern spices meet Western mixology:

• Fresh curry leaves – The star of the show. The leaves contribute a peppery, light lemony aroma that’s earthy and undeniably South Asian.

• Lemon juice – For the brightening zip that puts a burst of fun in each sip.
• Simple syrup or jaggery syrup – A splash of sweetness to counterbalance the tart.
• Gin or soda water – Your base—alcoholic or otherwise.
• Ice & soda top-off – Because this drink will be enjoyed cold.

Optional: Black salt or chili rim – For a zesty, spicy kick on the glass rim.

The scent of muddled curry leaves alone is sufficient to stop people in their tracks at a party—it’s that intriguing.

The Inspiration Behind the Drink

The Curry Leaf Collins is not just a trendy twist on a classic—it’s a culinary nod to South Asia’s botanical brilliance. Desi restaurants have been using curry leaves as a pantry staple for generations, tempering dals, chutneys, and curries. Lately, however, chefs and bartenders have embraced these leaves for purposes other than their taste.

Here at Hussain Catering, we enjoy playing it big, especially with ingredients rooted in heritage. Tasting curry leaves in drinks is a way of closing the loop on the familiar in new, unexpected ways.

How We Serve It Here at Hussain Catering

When we serve up the Curry Leaf Collins at our gatherings—whether a Mehndi celebration, upscale brunch, or food fusion tasting—the reaction is always the same:

Wait. What’s in this?

Served over ice, crushed in a tall glass with a garnish of a sprig of curry leaf, it’s a winner in terms of presentation. We like to rim the glass with a mixture of black salt and chili powder for added depth, especially for those who enjoy a splash of hot spice.

Hungry for a non-alcoholic version? No problem. We prepare ours with a curry leaf and lemon shrub, topped with soda and a dash of ginger syrup. It’s herby, tangy, and 100% party-worthy.

Why You Should Give it a Go

• Herbal or spiced drink lover
• Fan of fusion food and Desi innovation
• Seeker of a one-of-a-kind signature drink for your party. Then the Curry Leaf Collins is your go-to try-it-out.

It’s not about being trendy—it’s about having a conversation. This cocktail opens a window to home memories as well as serving up something entirely new and unexpected.

Make it Part of Your Next Celebration

At Hussain Catering, we’re experts at creating experiences that are both nostalgic and new at once. Whether through creative Indian cuisine, house-made mocktails, or vibrant fusion cuisine, we infuse storytelling into each dish—and every cocktail glass.

The Curry Leaf Collins is more than a drink. It’s an ode to heritage, a twist on tradition, and a refreshing invitation to uncover spicy, botanical tastes.

Ready to add this drink to your next menu?

Get in touch with us today and let’s make your event unforgettable—with flavor that says Desi and drinks that say style.