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Why Did British Sip This Gunfire Cocktail For Breakast? 

By Jasmine Kaur

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This ancient British cocktail was served for breakfast to soldiers once upon a time. Here’s why. 

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What Is Gunfire Cocktail? 

For the unversed, gunfire is made with rum and black tea. The delicious concoction was referred to as early morning tea among the British soldiers in ancient days. 

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Origins 

It is said that the British army concocted this drink during the 18th century to be served to lower rank officers before a morning attack. 

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Importance And Symbolism 

The drink symbolized Dutch courage and was also drunk before a parade passed by. The cocktail was also offered to officers who were on duty during festivities. 

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Different Versions 

In New Zealand and Australia, you’d find a black coffee version of this cocktail that is served as part of gunfire breakfast to soldiers before dawn services. 

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How To Make Gunfire?

Add water to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Mix tea powder and stir. Fill a glass with rum and pour black tea over it before serving. 

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