
The wait for Bridgerton Season 4 is over, and the excitement is palpable. This time, the spotlight shifts to Benedict Bridgerton, the artistic and often aimless second son who has long been a fan favourite. For those of us in India, the show has always felt oddly familiar despite its British Regency setting. The focus on family honour, the meddling mothers, and the vibrant, colourful festivals mirror our own social structures in a way that makes the ton feel like a distant, lace-covered cousin. With Benedict’s story finally taking centre stage, the theme of the season is the Masquerade Ball. It is a moment of mystery, costume, and elegance. However, you do not need a Bridgerton sized inheritance to throw a viewing party that would make Lady Danbury proud. Here are six budget friendly cocktail and finger food pairings to elevate your next ball.
1. The Lady In Silver Fizz And Spiced Potato Tartlets
In honour of Sophie Baek, the mysterious woman who captures Benedict’s heart, we have the Lady in Silver. This drink is a simple but elegant Gin and Tonic with a twist. Use any affordable gin and top it with plenty of tonic water and a squeeze of lime. To get that silver shimmer without expensive edible glitter, simply freeze blueberries or silver foil wrapped grapes to drop into the glass. Pair this with spiced potato tartlets. Instead of traditional samosas, use ready made puff pastry shells or tart bases. Fill them with a spiced potato and pea mixture, seasoned with cumin and a touch of lemon. It provides a familiar crunch while fitting perfectly into the dainty requirements of a Regency party.
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2. The Sketchbook Sour And Devilled Eggs With Mustard
Benedict is the artist of the family, often found in sketches or bohemian art dens. His drink should be a bit bolder. A Dark and Stormy made with dark rum and ginger beer is spicy and sophisticated. You can find local ginger ales that do the job perfectly at a low price point. Match this with spiced devilled eggs. Hard boil your eggs, mash the yolks with a bit of mustard, mayonnaise, and a pinch of chaat masala or paprika for that extra kick. It is a high protein, low cost snack that looks incredibly posh when plated on a simple white platter.
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3. The Whistledown Whisper And Minty Cucumber Rounds
No Bridgerton party is complete without a nod to the scribe who keeps the ton in check. The Whistledown Fizz is a light, bubbly concoction of sparkling water, a splash of elderflower syrup or honey, and a hint of lemon. It is refreshing and keeps your wits sharp for catching all the season’s secrets. The classic pairing for a light fizz is the cucumber sandwich, but we are keeping it budget friendly and low effort. Slice cucumbers into thick rounds, dollop a tiny bit of cream cheese mixed with mint on top, and sprinkle with black pepper. It is crisp, clean, and costs next to nothing.
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4. Violets Rose Spritzer And Cardamom Shortbread
Violet Bridgerton is the heart of the home, and her presence is as soft as a rose garden. This cocktail involves mixing rose syrup, which is a staple in many Indian households, with chilled lemonade or a light white wine. It is floral, feminine, and visually beautiful. To balance the floral sweetness, serve cardamom shortbread or nankhatai. The aromatic spice of the cardamom creates a lovely contrast with the rose drink. This pairing feels like a heritage high tea, making it perfect for the more sentimental moments of Benedicts journey.
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5. The Viscounts Martini And Herbed Chicken Skewers
Anthony Bridgerton may have settled into domestic bliss, but his presence still looms large. An Earl Grey Martini is the height of Regency chic. Cold brew some Earl Grey tea, mix it with a splash of vodka and a touch of honey, and shake it with ice. Pair this sophisticated drink with simple herbed chicken skewers. Marinate small pieces of chicken in yoghurt, garlic, and dried herbs, then pan fry them until golden. They are easy to eat while standing and provide the sustenance needed for a long evening of gossip.
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6. Featherington Fruit Punch And Masala Popcorn
The Featheringtons are known for being bright, bold, and occasionally loud. Their signature punch is a vibrant mix of seasonal fruit juices, sliced oranges, and a splash of ginger ale for some fizz. It is colourful and incredibly easy on the wallet. Since the Featheringtons represent the high drama of the series, masala popcorn is the only logical pairing. Toss your popcorn with butter, turmeric, and a hint of chilli powder. It is the ultimate snack for when the masks finally come off and the scandals are revealed.
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