Making A Gin Basil Smash

Imagine a warm summer evening, the sun setting, and the perfect way to cool down is with a Gin Basil Smash. This cocktail is a refreshing and herbaceous mix that combines the zing of fresh basil with the crispness of gin. I remember the first time I made this drink; I realized how important it was to bruise the basil well to release its natural oils.

To get started, you’ll need 2 ounces of gin, 3/4 ounce of fresh lemon juice, 3/4 ounce of simple syrup, and a handful of fresh basil leaves. Muddle the basil in a shaker to ensure every bit of flavor is extracted. Add the rest of the ingredients with ice, shake it up, and double strain into a glass. This prevents any stray basil bits from ending up in your drink, which I learned the hard way after an otherwise perfect summer barbecue.

Experiment with different types of gin if you like – each one lends a slightly different character to your cocktail. Personally, I love using a London Dry for its bold flavors, but a New Western gin can offer a surprising twist. With a few tries, you’ll find the combination that makes your Gin Basil Smash unforgettable.

Your Ingredients

When making a Gin Basil Smash cocktail, it’s essential to choose the right gin, fresh basil, and the perfect balance of citrus and sweeteners. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting this refreshing drink.

Gin Selection

The gin is the star of your Basil Smash, so choosing the right one is vital. Opt for a London Dry Gin like Tanqueray or Beefeater, which brings a crisp, juniper-forward profile that complements basil well. If you prefer something a bit more aromatic, try a botanical gin such as Hendrick’s or Bombay Sapphire. These gins enhance the herbaceous notes in your cocktail.

I once used a heavy-spiced gin, which overpowered the basil; stick to something clean and balanced. Measure out 2 ounces of gin for each cocktail. Quality matters, so don’t skimp on this ingredient.

The Role of Basil in Your Basil Smash

Fresh basil is what makes this cocktail unique. Always choose fresh basil leaves that are vibrant green and aromatic. Avoid wilted or brown leaves, as they won’t impart the desired flavor. Pick about 8-10 basil leaves for each drink.

Gently slap the basil leaves between your hands before muddling to release their essential oils without making them bitter. I’ve learned that over-muddling can make the drink taste grassy, so press lightly.

Citrus and Sweeteners

Lemon juice and simple syrup balance the herbal and botanical flavors perfectly. Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor—bottled juice just doesn’t compare. You’ll need about 0.75 ounces of lemon juice per cocktail.

To sweeten, use simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water. 0.75 ounces of simple syrup per drink is typically balanced. If your sweet tooth is demanding more, adjust to taste, but be cautious—a cocktail that’s too sweet can lose its refreshing edge.

Remember, freshness is key. Fresh lemons and newly made simple syrup elevate the drink. For those just starting, a little practice with balancing these ingredients ensures a perfect Basil Smash every time.

Mixing and Serving

Creating a gin basil smash cocktail requires precision in mixing and serving. You’ll need to muddle the ingredients perfectly, shake them thoroughly, and garnish the drink to enhance its presentation.

Muddling to Perfection

Start by gathering your ingredients: 2 oz gin, 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice, 3/4 oz simple syrup, and 5-6 fresh basil leaves. Place the basil leaves at the bottom of a cocktail shaker.

Using a muddler, press gently but firmly to release the basil’s oils and aromas without tearing the leaves. Muddling too aggressively can make the basil bitter, so find that sweet spot.

For an extra tip, if you don’t have a proper muddler, the back of a wooden spoon can work in a pinch. Just be sure to use a smooth, rounded end to prevent damaging the leaves.

Shaking It Up

Once your basil is muddled, add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill it with ice to about three-quarters full.

Seal the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. The mixing releases the botanical flavors from the gin and combines all the ingredients seamlessly.

After shaking, use a fine strainer to double-strain the cocktail into a chilled rocks glass. This step removes any small basil pieces or ice shards, giving you a smooth drink. I remember once skipping this step, ending up with a gritty cocktail – definitely a mistake to avoid!

How To Garnish Your Drink

Garnishing the gin basil smash adds a visual flair and an aromatic touch. Here, a fresh basil sprig works wonders. Lightly slap the sprig between your palms to release its scent before placing it atop the drink.

If you’re feeling adventurous, add a slice of lemon or a few blackberries for an extra pop of color. When I hosted a home gathering, I once substituted mint for basil, giving a fresh twist to the classic garnish.

Serve your drink in a rocks glass for an authentic experience or experiment with a cocktail glass. Enjoy your perfectly mixed and beautifully garnished gin basil smash!