The end of the summer is fast approaching and if you’re like us, you might have an abundance of basil this time of year!
Well, we put our thinking caps on and wanted to bring you a fresh idea to create something delicious with your fresh basil. Meet, our WOT Test Kitchen Basil Gimlet! If you’ve never had one, this one is a must-try.
While a traditional Gimlet is made with gin, we decided to try it with vodka, and it is excellent! We love recipe flexibility and personalizing our dishes to fit your tastes. For this cocktail, if you like a little spicy, give this a try with Thai basil.
This recipe does call for the use of a cocktail strainer. If you don’t have a cocktail strainer, it is a great tool to have not only at the bar but in the kitchen as well. This is a good one from Amazon we love to use in our Test Kitchen.
And if you are looking for another great summer cocktail recipe, try this Paloma or our Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita with Chili Seasoned Rim.
Basil Gimlet
Ingredients
- 6 large basil leaves For a little spice, Thai basil is an option
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice (approx. ½ lime)
- 1 1/2 oz gin or vodka
- 1 oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
- basil leaves
Instructions
- Place the basil leaves in a cocktail shaker, add the simple syrup and lime juice. Muddle the basil leaves with a muddler. You can also use the bottom of a large wooden spoon. Pressing into the basil leaves and liquid helps to release the oils of the basil and all the flavors!
- Fill the shaker with a good amount of ice and pour your favorite spirit along with the St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur over the ice. Shake well for about 30 seconds.
- Using a cocktail strainer, pour the mixture into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a sprig of Thai Basil.
- Use equal amounts of sugar to water. Heat your water on the stovetop, add sugar and cook until dissolved. Cool and keep in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
Enjoy!
Making this cocktail? Be sure and share it with us on the WOT Instagram or on Facebook!
All photos by Lorianne DeVita
