Home Cook Together. Celebrate Life.

GermanAuthentic Cuisine

Spezi

Serves 4 to 6 Beverage vegetarian, Beverages

Spezi

Spezi is a refreshing Bavarian drink, a simple blend of cola and orange soda, served chilled over ice. It's a staple in German homes, enjoyed for its sweet and tangy balance that quenches thirst with a citrusy twist.

This drink is a favorite across Germany, especially in Bavaria, where it's made without fuss. The combination of cola and orange soda creates a unique flavor that's both familiar and exciting, often garnished with a slice of orange for a hint of freshness.

Ingredients

  • 200 mlcola
  • 200 mlorange soda
  • ice cubes — to serve
  • orange slice — to garnish

Method

  1. Begin by ensuring that both the cola and orange soda are well chilled. Place them in the refrigerator for at least a couple of hours before you plan to make the Spezi. This step is crucial as the cold temperature enhances the refreshing quality of the drink, which is a hallmark of the German café or beer-garden experience.
  2. Once the sodas are chilled, measure out 200 ml of cola and 200 ml of orange soda. Use a measuring cup to ensure accuracy, as the balance of flavors is key to achieving the traditional taste of Spezi.
  3. Take a tall glass and fill it with a few ice cubes. The ice will help maintain the drink's chill and add a refreshing crispness. Be careful not to overfill the glass with ice, as this can dilute the flavors.
  4. Pour the measured cola into the glass over the ice cubes. Tilt the glass slightly and pour slowly to preserve the carbonation, which is essential for the effervescent quality of the drink.
  5. Next, gently pour the measured orange soda into the glass, again tilting the glass and pouring slowly. This method helps to maintain the carbonation and ensures the flavors blend smoothly without losing their distinct aromas.
  6. Stir the mixture gently with a spoon just enough to combine the two sodas. Avoid vigorous stirring to prevent the loss of carbonation, which gives Spezi its characteristic fizz.
  7. Serve the Spezi immediately to enjoy it at its optimal temperature and effervescence. Garnish with a slice of orange on the rim of the glass for a traditional touch, adding a hint of citrus aroma as you sip.
Cover of Authentic German Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic German Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic German Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the German volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.