Strawberry Basil Gimlet
This is a recreation of the cocktail that changed our outlook on Gin. We always liked gin and tonics and other classics, but adding fruit and other flavors weren’t at the surface of possibilities. Obviously this was years ago and when we were just beginning to appreciate well balanced and interesting cocktails. On this particular night we had told the bartender we were not into gin, and he launched into a full on tasting tutorial around 5 different Gins. After that we were hooked. The variations of gin, from light and floral, to bold juniper and everything in between can influence the flavor is a cocktail like this so if you’re not into gin we suggest a lighter gin like Hendricks, but if you love that juniper go for bold like a Tanqueray.
Some tips and trixx:
We suggest double straining to take out any extra pulp. It may go slowly through the strainer, but you can use a spoon and stir to help it through.
No need to muddle the basil, just throw it in the shaker. Basil is fragile and bruises easily, so if you muddle you’ll get more of the bitter flavors from the basil.
Ingredients:
2 oz Gin
¾ oz Simple Syrup
1 oz Lime juice
3-4 Strawberries
1 basil leaf
Directions:
Muddle strawberries in a shaker
Add all remaining ingredients and ice to the shaker
Shake for 10 to 20 seconds
Double strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass
Garnish with sliced strawberry
To make for ahead for a gathering (makes about 6):
2 cups Gin
1 cups lime juice
1 cup simple syrup
12-16 oz strawberries
6-8 basil leaves
Add strawberries and 1/2 cup of lime juice to a blender.
Blend for 20-30 seconds until pureed.
Strain into a pitcher
Then to the pitcher add Gin, remaining lime juice and simple syrup. Chill until ready to serve.
When ready to drink, add 4oz (½ cup) of the mixture per serving to a shaker with ice and 1 basil leaf.
Shake for 10-20 seconds.
Double strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.