A homemade pálinka seller will likely be selling other fruit-related wares, like jam. You definitely don’t have to be fluent in Hungarian to make this type of purchase, but it can help to learn and speak a few phrases so you can build credibility with the sellers. For instance, use “kapható” (kuh-pah-to), the Hungarian word for “available,” to see what’s in stock.
Search “buy pálinka online” in a search engine to find a wide variety of shopping options. You can buy some bottles of pálinka for as low as $12-22.
Only fill the wide, bottom bowl section of the glass with pálinka—not the entire thing. [7] X Research source If you’d really like to pace yourself, start with a 1. 5 fl oz (44 mL) serving of the drink before pouring yourself any more. [8] X Research source Pálinka experts advise against using shot glasses for pálinka, since they don’t let you enjoy all of the drink’s different flavor notes and aromas. [9] X Research source
Pálinka comes in a variety of flavors, including apricot, plum, pear, cherry, and apple. [11] X Research source With that being said, there’s no rule against drinking pálinka like a shot! If gulping the drink quickly is more your style, feel free to do so.
Always double-check the bottle before pouring yourself a glass of pálinka, or ask a waiter or bartender what the alcohol percentage is before sampling some. According to EU law, pálinka can’t be any higher than 80% alcohol. [13] X Research source
Pálinka can also be used as an aperitif, or a drink served before a big meal. [15] X Research source
Some pálinka makers will add some extra sugar into the fermented fruit to boost the alcohol volume.
This recipe makes 1 serving of the cocktail.
This makes 1 serving of a pear pálinka cocktail.
Garnish this cocktail with a dash of powdered cinnamon. This recipe makes 1 serving of plum pálinka cocktail.
You might pair a bowl of plum pudding with a glass of plum pálinka or ţuică, or enjoy a glass of apple pálinka with a slice of apple pie.
