To make a simple gin smash, you will need the following ingredients:
– Fresh basil leaves
– Lemon juice
– Simple syrup
– Ice
– Gin
1. Start by muddling a handful of fresh basil leaves in a cocktail shaker. This process helps release the oils and flavors from the basil, resulting in a more aromatic and flavorful cocktail.
2. Next, add a splash of freshly squeezed lemon juice to the shaker. The acidity of the lemon juice will balance out the sweetness of the simple syrup and enhance the overall taste of the drink.
3. To sweeten the cocktail, add a drizzle of simple syrup. Simple syrup is made by combining equal parts sugar and water and heating until the sugar dissolves. It provides a consistent sweetness throughout the drink without any sugar granules.
4. Now it's time to add ice to the shaker. The ice will chill the cocktail and dilute it slightly, creating a more balanced and refreshing beverage. Fill the shaker about three-quarters full with ice cubes.
5. Pour in a measure of your preferred gin. The type of gin you choose can greatly influence the taste of your gin smash. Some gins have more botanical flavors, while others have a more citrusy or juniper-forward profile. Experiment with different gins to find your favorite combination.
6. Shake the cocktail vigorously for about 10-15 seconds. This will mix all the ingredients together, chill the drink, and create a slight frothiness.
7. Double-strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass. Double-straining involves using a fine mesh strainer in addition to the shaker's built-in strainer. This step helps remove any small bits of muddled basil or ice chips, resulting in a smoother and cleaner drink.
8. If desired, you can add a few ice cubes to the cocktail glass to keep the drink colder for longer. This is especially helpful if you're sipping on the cocktail slowly.
9. To garnish your gin smash, take a small sprig of fresh basil and gently slap it between your hands to release its aroma. Place the basil sprig on top of the drink as a visually appealing and fragrant garnish.
Enjoy your homemade gin smash! The combination of fresh basil, lemon juice, and gin creates a delightful and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different variations by adding other ingredients such as berries or cucumber for a unique twist. Cheers!