Hey there, I’m Austin from “Beyond The Bayou Blog” Today’s recipe is a special one—it’s my take on the Classic Gimlet. Growing up, I used to watch my dad mix up his signature cocktails for family gatherings. He’d always say, “A good gimlet is like a little burst of sunshine in a glass.”
For this version, I’ve added a twist with homemade lime syrup that brings out the tangy freshness just right. It’s the kind of drink that instantly transports me back to those cozy evenings with loved ones, with a table full of snacks, drinks, and desserts sharing stories and laughter.
I love how the simplicity of a gimlet lets the quality of the ingredients shine through. It’s perfect for those laid-back weekends or when you just want a refreshing sip after a long day. So, let’s raise a glass to good times and great flavors!
Let’s Know How Gimlet Emerged?
The gimlet, like many classic cocktails, has several origin stories. The most credible dates back to the 1880s, credited to Royal Navy surgeon Sir Thomas Gimlette. He suggested adding lime juice to gin rations to prevent scurvy, using Lauchlin Rose’s lime juice cordial. This cordial, invented a decade earlier, sweetened the drink and preserved the citrus.
Regarding its origins, you can view the gimlet as a sweet gin rickey (minus the soda water) or as part of the sour cocktail family. Initially, it was a 50-50 mix of gin and lime cordial, but modern tastes prefer a drier, better-balanced drink, reducing the lime cordial proportion over time.
Overview: How To Make Gimlet?
Today’s cocktail adventure takes us to a refreshing concoction that’s sure to delight your taste buds. In a shaker, I combine 2 ounces of gin with a splash of fresh lime juice and just the right amount of honey and simple syrup to balance the flavors.
After adding ice and giving it a vigorous shake, the mixture transforms into a chilled, invigorating elixir. Strained into a chilled cocktail glass and garnished with a slice of lime, this drink not only looks inviting but also packs a flavorful punch.
It’s the perfect blend of tangy lime, floral gin, and sweet honey, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. So, grab your shaker, and let’s mix up some magic with this gin and lime cocktail!
Gimlet Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker or mason jar
- Cocktail glass
- Ice
- Lime slices (for garnish)
Ingredients
- 2 ounces 1/4 cup gin
- 1 ounce 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 to 1 ounce 1 to 2 tablespoons honey simple syrup,* to taste
- ice
- lime slices for garnish
Instructions
- Combine gin, lime juice, and honey simple syrup in a shaker or jar.
- Add ice, cover, and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lime slice.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
Variations I Will Suggest!
- Try Vodka: For a classic twist, swap gin with vodka to create a traditional vodka gimlet.
- Incorporate Herbs: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh basil or rosemary. You can also infuse your honey simple syrup with these herbs for an extra burst of freshness.
- Add Botanicals: Elevate the taste by including dried juniper berries, peppercorns, cardamom pods, dried ginger, or dried citrus peels during shaking to infuse the cocktail with nuanced flavors.
- Include Cucumber: For a refreshing touch, muddle a few slices of fresh cucumber into the mix. Strain the cocktail and serve with additional cucumber slices as garnish for a delightful presentation
What to Serve with Gimlet?
Is Storing a Good Option for Gimlet?
Storing a gimlet is not ideal as it’s best enjoyed fresh to preserve its flavors and aroma. The lime juice and other ingredients can lose their freshness over time, affecting the cocktail’s taste. It’s recommended to prepare gimlets just before serving for the best drinking experience.
What Is the Difference Between a Gimlet and A Martini?
A gimlet and a martini are both classic cocktails, but they differ in their ingredients and flavors. A gimlet is made with gin, lime juice, and sometimes a touch of simple syrup, offering a tart and refreshing taste. In contrast, a martini features gin or vodka with dry vermouth, resulting in a more sophisticated and dry profile.