Basil Gimlet
Photo by Thomas J. Story
Move over, mint: Basil’s spicy flavor puts a fresh spin on the traditional gimlet. Make the syrup before guests arrive—it keeps up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
How to Make It
Step 1
1
Make basil syrup: In a large microwave-safe measuring cup, combine sugar, 3/4 cup water, and basil.
Step 2
2
Microwave on high until sugar dissolves, 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 3
3
Let basil steep in syrup 20 to 30 minutes, then strain (you'll have enough syrup for 4 drinks).
Step 4
4
Fill 2 highball glasses with ice. Into each glass, pour 3 tbsp. gin, 4 tbsp. basil syrup, and 2 tbsp. lime juice. Stir and serve, garnished with basil sprigs.
Step 5
5
Tip: Add lemon juice and chilled water to the leftover syrup and serve over ice for basil lemonade.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar
1 large bunch basil, coarsely chopped
Ice
6 tablespoons gin
4 tablespoons lime juice
Basil sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Step 1
1
Make basil syrup: In a large microwave-safe measuring cup, combine sugar, 3/4 cup water, and basil.
Step 2
2
Microwave on high until sugar dissolves, 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 3
3
Let basil steep in syrup 20 to 30 minutes, then strain (you'll have enough syrup for 4 drinks).
Step 4
4
Fill 2 highball glasses with ice. Into each glass, pour 3 tbsp. gin, 4 tbsp. basil syrup, and 2 tbsp. lime juice. Stir and serve, garnished with basil sprigs.
Step 5
5
Tip: Add lemon juice and chilled water to the leftover syrup and serve over ice for basil lemonade.
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