Basil Gimlet Recipe
choice of vodka or gin, lemongrass cordial, lime, basil
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Frequently paired with
The best thing to pair and share with Basil Gimlet
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Cocktail
Optional Lemongrass Cordial (if you don't have it)
Method
Optional Lemongrass Cordial (make ahead, yields ~1 cup)
Prepare cordial
Combine 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar in a small saucepan. Add bruised lemongrass stalks and lime zest. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer 8–10 minutes to infuse. Remove from heat, let cool to room temperature, then strain out solids through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Chill. Cordial will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Build the Basil Gimlet
Muddle basil
Place 6 fresh basil leaves in the base of a mixing glass or shaker. Add the lemongrass cordial and fresh lime juice. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press the basil leaves 6–8 times to release aromatic oils — avoid shredding them into tiny pieces to prevent bitterness.
Add spirit and ice
Add 2 oz gin or vodka to the shaker. Add a generous handful of ice (about 1 cup) to chill and slightly dilute the cocktail.
Shake
Shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is cold and slightly frosted. This chills the drink and further integrates the basil and lime flavors.
Double-strain and serve
Double-strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or martini glass using a Hawthorne strainer and a fine-mesh sieve to catch any basil particles and small ice shards. This yields a smooth, clear drink.
Garnish and finish
Garnish with a small basil sprig and a lime wheel or wedge on the rim. Optionally express a lime twist over the surface to add extra aroma. Serve immediately.