The Big Bang (or Big Bamboo) is a strong shot with two robust and full-bodied rums.
To tone down the intensity of the rum and make it a little more palatable, portions of orange and pineapple juices are added.
Different to some other mixed drinks, the Big Bang requires a full 2-ounce (60 ml) serving of high-proof rum, typically reserved for floating atop flaming cocktails.
This is mixed by a dark rum, followed by the sweet and tangy fruit flavors that help balance the stronger alcoholic kick.
The great thing is that you don’t have to tackle this shot solo—and in fact, you shouldn’t.
The recipe yields four 2-ounce (60 ml) shots, making it perfect for sharing with friends and enjoying together.
Here’s how to make the Big Bang shot rum-based shot at home.
The Big Bang Shot Ingredients
- 151-Proof Rum (2 ounces / 60 ml): Provides a potent base, ensuring the shot has a strong kick.
- Orange Juice (2 ounces / 60 ml): Adds a citrusy sweetness, balancing the strength of the rum.
- Pineapple Juice (2 ounces / 60 ml): Adds a tropical flair, enhancing the shot’s complexity.
- Dark Rum (1 ounce / 30 ml): Adds depth with its rich, caramel notes.
- Simple Syrup (1/2 ounce / 15 ml): Offers sweetness to counterbalance the rum’s intensity.
- Triple Sec (1/4 ounce / 7.5 ml): Mixes a slight orange liqueur sweetness, tying together the fruity flavors.
- Bitters (1 dash): Adds a layer of spice and depth, rounding out the drink.
The Big Bang Shot Recipe
- Preparation:
- Start by assembling your ingredients. Precision is key, as the balance between the strong rum and the sweet and fruity components is what makes this shot so dynamic.
- Combining the Ingredients:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, pour in the 151-proof rum, orange juice, pineapple juice, dark rum, simple syrup, triple sec, and a dash of bitters. The inclusion of high-proof rum and a careful selection of juices and sweeteners is what gives this shot its explosive name and flavor profile.
- Shaking:
- Secure the lid on your shaker and give it a big rough shake. This not only chills the mixture but also ensures that the flavors meld together, creating a smooth shot.
- Serving:
- Strain the well-shaken mixture into four shot glasses. The Big Bang is best served immediately, while it’s ice cold and the flavors are at their peak.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to enjoy a shot with some kick, the Big Bang offers a taste experience that’s as vast as the universe itself.
So gather your ingredients, shake up a cosmic storm, and prepare for a flavor explosion that’s sure to be the highlight of your evening.