Mint Gimlet & Mocktail 8.03 Summer

“I made a pitcher of gimlets with a vodka I brought back from Russia. It's wonderful. Want to try some?”

Ingredients:

For the cocktail:

• 2 oz vodka

• 1 oz lime juice

• 1 oz mint simple syrup*

• 1-2 dashes eucalyptus bitters

• Ice

• Fresh mint and lime wedge to garnish

* To make the mint simple syrup, combine ½ cup white sugar and ½ cup water in a small saucepan and place over high heat. Simmer until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and add 14 g fresh mint leaves and steep for 20 minutes then strain out the solids. 

For the mocktail: 

• 2 oz freshly brewed mint tea

• 1 oz lime juice

• 1 oz mint simple syrup (see above for directions)

• 1-2 dashes eucalyptus bitters

• Ice

• Fresh mint and lime wedge to garnish

Directions:

1.  Combine the vodka, lime juice, mint simple syrup and bitters in a cocktail shaker. Fill with ice then shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. 

2. Strain cocktail into a chilled glass and garnish with fresh mint and a lime wedge. 

3. To make the cocktail, follow the same directions but instead of using vodka, use 2 oz freshly brewed mint tea. 

We all know this is one of Emily’s favorite cocktails, so does it feel weird or sweet that Jack made her them in Summer? Traditionally, a gimlet is gin and lime cordial. These days, it’s often gin, lime juice and simple syrup. In the episode, Jack makes them with vodka. I also made mine with a mint simple syrup and eucalyptus bitters just for something a little fun and different! If you don’t drink alcohol, I also have a mocktail version for you!

Happy cooking from the Hollow!

Catch up on my last A Year in the Life Dish here!