Gimlet
The traditional version of this classic cocktail calls for equal parts gin and lime cordial; this easy method uses lime juice instead to create a clean and more refreshing drink.
Ingredients
To make the lime syrup
- 50²µ/1¾´Ç³ú caster sugar
- 50ml/2fl oz freshly squeezed lime juice
To make the cocktail
Method
For the lime syrup, put the caster sugar in a small non-stick saucepan over a medium heat and pour in the lime juice. Stir and bring to the boil. CAUTION: boiling sugar is extremely hot. Handle very carefully. Use a deep pan to avoid bubbling over.
Once the sugar has dissolved and the syrup is clear, take the pan off the heat and leave to cool. Put your glass (a coupette is preferred for this drink) in the fridge to chill.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Pour 60ml/4 tablespoons of the cooled lime syrup over the ice in the cocktail shaker and add the gin.
Shake vigorously for 8-10 seconds, then strain the gimlet into the chilled coupette glass using a hawthorne cocktail strainer and a fine mesh strainer. If you don’t have a strainer, any kitchen sieve will work just as well. Garnish the drink with a lime wheel if using.
Recipe Tips
Scale up the lime syrup ingredients with a ratio of 1:1 if you’d like to make more. It’s easier to make in larger batches and keeps for about 2 weeks in the fridge.