There’s something timeless about a warm mug of Grog. It’s simple, bold, and full of character-just like the sailors who made it famous. This drink has been around since the 1700s, and while the ingredients are few, the flavors are anything but boring. I’ve made this drink countless times, especially on chilly nights when I want something cozy but not too sweet. Let me walk you through how to make a classic Grog at home, with a few tips and twists along the way.
Grog
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Good for: Cool evenings, relaxed gatherings, or when you want something warm with a bit of a kick
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) rum – light or dark both work; navy-style is traditional
– 4 oz (120 ml) hot water
– 1/2 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice – about half a lime
– 1 tsp (5 ml) sugar – white, brown, or even demerara
– Optional: pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a spiced version
Equipment
– Heat-safe mug or highball glass
– Stirring spoon
– Measuring jigger or small measuring cup
Method
- Warm your mug. Pour a little hot water into it, swirl it around, then dump it out. This keeps the drink hot longer.
- Add the rum. Pour 2 oz (60 ml) into your mug.
- Mix in the sugar. Add 1 tsp (5 ml) sugar. Stir it with the rum until it starts to dissolve.
- Pour in the hot water. Slowly add 4 oz (120 ml) hot water and stir to combine. Make sure it’s not boiling-just hot enough to warm you up.
- Finish with lime juice. Squeeze in 1/2 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice. Stir again and give it a quick taste. Adjust sweetness or citrus as needed.
Tips & Tricks
– Always use fresh lime juice. Bottled stuff just doesn’t have the same brightness.
– If you like things a little richer, try using brown sugar or even a spoonful of honey.
– Want a spiced touch? Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg right into the mug.
– Don’t boil the water-too hot and it can dull the rum’s flavor.
Make-Ahead Note
You can prep a larger batch by combining the rum, lime juice, and sugar in advance. When it’s time to serve, just pour into mugs and top with hot water. Great for parties or cold-weather get-togethers.
Storage
Leftover Grog (without water added) can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat the portion you want and add hot water when you’re ready to enjoy.
Substitutions
– Rum: Swap with bourbon for a deeper, smokier flavor.
– Sugar: Use honey or agave for a more floral or earthy sweetness.
– Lime juice: Grapefruit juice works for a slightly bitter, aromatic twist.
– Non-alcoholic: Use warm ginger tea, apple cider, or a splash of ginger ale in place of rum for a cozy zero-proof version.
What It Tastes Like
A good Grog is warm, citrusy, and just sweet enough. The rum brings a gentle heat, the lime adds brightness, and the sugar smooths it all out. It’s not fussy-but it sure is comforting. I often say it’s like a hot toddy’s laid-back cousin.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Grog with:
– Grilled meats: The lime cuts through the richness, and the rum pairs beautifully with char.
– Salted nuts: Perfect for a snacky happy hour.
– Tropical fruits: Pineapple, mango, or papaya bring out the drink’s natural sweetness.
Fun Facts
– The name “Grog” comes from Admiral Edward Vernon, nicknamed “Old Grog” for his grogram coat.
– The word “groggy” actually came from drinking too much of it!
– Originally used to stretch sailors’ rum rations and keep them hydrated, it’s now just a great way to warm up.
Variations to Try
Spiced Grog
– Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sugar for a cozy twist.
– Great around the holidays or when you want something extra warming.
Island Grog
– Splash in a bit of coconut water and a dash of bitters.
– It adds a tropical vibe that’s great for summer evenings.
Green Tea Grog
– Swap the hot water for brewed green tea.
– It’s earthy, refreshing, and a great way to cut back on sugar.
Virgin Grog (Kid-Friendly)
– Skip the rum and use warm water, lime, and honey.
– It’s soothing and still full of flavor-especially good if you’re feeling under the weather.
Common Questions
What kind of rum is best?
A light, navy-style rum is traditional, but dark rum adds more depth. Try both and see what you like best.
Can I make it ahead for a group?
Yes! Just mix up the rum, sugar, and lime juice in a pitcher. When guests arrive, pour into mugs and top with hot water.
Can I serve it cold?
Sure. While hot is classic, cold Grog with ice can be refreshing in warmer weather.
What if I don’t want to use sugar?
You can leave it out, but the drink will be tangier and more rum-forward. Try honey or agave for a natural alternative.
How did sailors store Grog ingredients?
Rum was kept in barrels, lime juice in bottles, and sugar in sacks-stored below deck where it was cool and dry.
Serving Size & Scaling
Making Grog for a crowd? Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Keep the ratios the same and adjust sweetness or citrus to taste.
This has been my go-to cocktail for chilly nights by the fire or when I want something that feels classic but not complicated. Whether you stick with the original or try one of the twists, Grog is a drink that’s easy to love and even easier to make. Serve it up with something salty or sweet, and you’ve got yourself a little taste of history in a mug.
