Everything about panther milk, a historic Spanish cocktail

Panther Milk – a Historic Spanish Cocktail If you're ever visiting Sevilla, the capital of southern Spain's Andalusia region, and fancy a drink with a bit of history attached, you should try Panther Milk – a sweet, creamy cocktail that's been around for decades. Ask for it by its Spanish name – Leche de Pantera – and the bartender will instantly know what you're after. Interestingly, Panther Milk actually has nothing to do with leopards or jungle cats – the name is thought to have been inspired by the black color of the drink and the fact that it's strong enough to "mow down a panther". The ingredients for Panther Milk are shrouded in mystery, but it's generally agreed that it contains condensed milk, rum, gin, and cinnamon. Some versions also have dark chocolate, brandy, or brandy-soaked cherries in them. Panther Milk first became popular in the bars around Seville's naval base in the 1950s, when Spanish soldiers returning from Africa and the Middle East introduced local drinks to their friends. Since then, Panther Milk has become a firm favorite with locals and tourists alike and can be found on the menu at most Seville bars and restaurants. It's often served as a pre-dinner aperitif or as a dessert drink to round off a meal. The exact recipe for Panther Milk varies from place to place and bartender to bartender, but the base ingredients always remain the same – condensed milk, spirits, and spices. The resulting drink is silky-smooth, with a rich, sweet taste that's balanced by the spice from the cinnamon. Although Panther Milk is deceptively easy to drink thanks to its creamy texture, it's strong enough to give you a solid buzz after just one glass. To make Panther Milk at home, you'll need the following ingredients: - 2 cups of sweetened condensed milk - 1 cup of white rum - 1 cup of gin - 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon - Dark chocolate shavings (optional) To prepare the drink, simply combine all the ingredients (except the chocolate) in a large mixing bowl and whisk until smooth and creamy. Pour into a glass over ice and garnish with shaved dark chocolate if you like. Panther Milk can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for up to a week. Panther Milk isn't just a drink – it's a cultural institution that's deeply embedded in Seville's history and traditions. Whether you're sipping on a glass in one of the city's lively bars or making it at home, you're connecting with a centuries-old Spanish tradition and experiencing the taste of history. If you're visiting Seville, make sure you try Panther Milk at least once – it'll give you a whole new appreciation for this vibrant, colorful city!