Burger and a Grape Snow Cone: The Sweet Nostalgia of Summertime

The Story Behind Burger and a Grape Snow Cone

The phrase "burger and a grape snow cone" comes from the lyrics of country singer Alan Jackson's 2002 song "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere." The song, a duet with Jimmy Buffett, tells the story of two working men who decide to start drinking early in the day because "it's five o'clock somewhere."

In the chorus, Jackson sings:

"I could pay off my tab, pour myself in a cab
And be back to work before 2
At a moment like this I can't help but wonder
What would Jimmy Buffett do?
But it's only half-past 12 and I don't care
It's five o'clock somewhere"

The lyrics paint a picture of leaving work early to enjoy an afternoon of drinking. Later in the song, Jackson goes on to sing:

"Blow up your TV, throw away your paper
Go to a water park, eat some cotton candy
Then later on, a burger and a grape snow cone"

Here, "a burger and a grape snow cone" signifies taking a carefree afternoon to indulge in classic summertime foods like burgers and snow cones.

The Origins of the Grape Snow Cone

Snow cones date back over a hundred years to the late 19th century. They were originally created by pouring flavored syrup over crushed ice. The icy treat likely originated in Asia, where crushed-ice desserts were popular in places like China and Japan. Snow cones eventually made their way to the US, becoming especially popular in the Southern states where the warm climate called for cooling refreshments.

Early snow cones mostly came in fruit flavors like cherry, lemon, and grape. Grape became a classic snow cone variety, delighting kids and adults alike with its sweet, purple flavor. The grape snow cone went on to become a nostalgic symbol of carefree summer days.

Why Grape Snow Cones Are a Summertime Favorite

There are a few reasons why grape-flavored snow cones hit the spot on a hot summer day:

• They're cold and refreshing. The icy texture cools you down fast.
• They're sweet and flavorful. The sugary grape syrup makes a tasty treat.
• They evoke nostalgia. Many adults fondly remember enjoying grape snow cones as kids.
• They're low commitment. Snow cones are an easy snack that don't fill you up.
• The purple color is fun. Grape snow cones turn your whole mouth vibrant purple!

Enjoying a grape snow cone brings back memories of carefree childhood summers spent playing outside and taking breaks to cool off with a cold, sweet treat. Even as adults, biting into a fluffy mound of purple ice transports us back to those golden days of summer vacation.

Grape Snow Cones as a Cultural Symbol

Over the decades, grape snow cones have become ingrained in American culture and nostalgia. They're right up there with drive-ins, popcorn, and fireworks as classic symbols of an idyllic American summer.

Grape snow cones hold a special place in Southern culture in particular. Their popularity here stems from the region's hot, humid climate that demands cooling refreshments. Long, languid Southern summers just seem to call for the childhood magic of a grape snow cone.

This cultural significance is exactly why Alan Jackson chose "a grape snow cone" to finish off the indulgent daydream in "It's Five O'Clock Somewhere." The purple icy treat encapsulates the escapism the lyrics describe - it's the perfect culmination of an easy, breezy afternoon of classic summertime indulgence.

How to Make the Best Grape Snow Cones

Want to get a taste of that sweet purple nostalgia? Here's a simple recipe to make grape snow cone bliss in your own kitchen:

Ingredients

• 1 cup white grape juice
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch
• Pinch of salt
• 4 cups of shaved ice

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, mix the grape juice, sugar, water, cornstarch and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
2. Once boiling, continue to cook and stir for another minute or two until slightly thickened.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before using.
4. To make the snow cones, place a handful of shaved ice in a paper cone or bowl.
5. Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of the grape syrup over the top, or to taste.
6. Enjoy immediately before the ice melts!

Tips for making the perfect snow cone:

• Use freshly shredded ice, not ice cubes. Cubes dilute the flavor.
• Flavor the syrup to your taste. Add more sugar for sweeter snow cones.
• Work quickly so the ice doesn't melt before serving.
• Let kids top their own snow cones with syrup so they can customize.
• Jazz it up with sprinkles, gummy bears, or chocolate chips!

Where to Find the Best Grape Snow Cones

Of course, for ultimate nostalgia, nothing beats getting your grape snow cone fix from a old-fashioned snow cone stand or trucks. Here are some top spots across the country:

Bahama Buck's

This chain originated in Texas and has now expanded across the South and Midwest. Their Jazzy Grape snow cone combines grape syrup with a hint of lemon.

Kona Ice

These Tiki hut-style trucks can be found nationwide during warmer months. Their signature Grape snow cone is tangy and sweet.

Rita's Italian Ice

Rita's has shops across America serving up snow cones and Italian ices. Their classic grape flavor captures that old-school grape soda taste.

Snobiz

A SoCal favorite, they use real fruit purees in snow cone flavors like Grapemania. It's a super juicy, natural grape taste.

Pelican's SnoBalls

This famed New Orleans sno-ball stand opened in 1945. Their sweet Grapevine sno-ball is a local legend.

Burger and a Grape Snow Cone: An Iconic Pairing

Burgers and snow cones might seem an unlikely combination, but the savory-sweet contrast actually works deliciously. The cool, sugary grape ice perfectly balances the hot, juicy burger.

This pairing also has that nostalgic summer cookout vibe. Burgers hot off the grill just beg to be evened out with a cold, fruity snow cone. It's a dynamic duo that reminds you of the straightforward pleasures of the sunny season.

So next time you fire up the grill or hit a burger joint, chase your juicy burger with a refreshing grape snow cone. The purple treat completes the classic summer feast.

Plus, asking for "a burger and a grape snow cone" lets you channel your inner Alan Jackson. Feel that carefree, "five o'clock somewhere" state of mind take over as you sip the purple ice and let your troubles drift away!

FAQs

Where