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 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!