📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 14%
Calories 171 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0.1g
Carbohydrates 7.2g
Prep time 2 minutes
Thirsty for a drink that’s simple yet sophisticated? The Gimlet is a classic cocktail that’s all about the refreshing tang of lime mixed with the smoothness of gin. Let’s dive into its storied history, vibrant taste, perfect presentation, and how to craft one yourself at home. Ready to become a Gimlet guru? Let’s go! ⬇️
History
The Gimlet was born in the high seas as a delightful remedy to prevent scurvy among British sailors. It has since sailed into bars worldwide, becoming a beloved classic. The cocktail’s simplicity and effectiveness have cemented its status in the cocktail hall of fame.
- The name “Gimlet” is thought to have been named after Sir Thomas Gimlette, a British Royal Navy Surgeon.
- Gimlette allegedly introduced this drink to the Navy as a means to entice sailors to take their daily dose of lime juice.
- Others say the cocktail is named after the tool called a ‘gimlet’ because of its piercing effect on the drinker.
The taste of a Gimlet?
A Gimlet tastes refreshingly tart with a sweet edge, thanks to the lime cordial, while the gin gives it a complex herbal backdrop. The balance between the zesty lime and the botanical gin creates a harmonious sip every time.
I find the Gimlet’s sharp yet sweet taste perfectly invigorating, especially when the heat turns up in summer.
Interesting facts about Gimlet
- The Gimlet’s popularity surged after being mentioned in Raymond Chandler’s 1953 novel “The Long Goodbye.”
- Originally, Gimlet was made with Rose’s lime juice, a preserved sweetened lime juice.
- This drink can be stirred or shaken, leading to different textures and experiences.
Ingredients
- Gin: 2 oz (60ml)
- Lime juice: ½ oz (15ml)
- Simple syrup: ½ oz (15ml)
A Gimlet is best served in a cocktail glass. The wide brim allows the citrus aroma to enhance the first sip. Alternatively, a martini glass can be used for a more elegant presentation.
Recipe. How to make Gimlet
- Fill a shaker with ice, and add 2 oz of gin and ½ oz of fresh lime juice.
- Include ½ oz of simple syrup for a touch of sweetness.
- Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail or martini glass.
- Garnish with a lime wheel to add an extra zing of lime.
Gimlets are delightful, but they can be sugary. If you’re watching your sugar intake, try substituting the syrup with a natural sweetener. The gin in a Gimlet might not be the healthiest, but it sure does make the drink delicious!
Food Pairings
The right food can turn a sip of a Gimlet into a symphony of flavors. Here’s what to nibble while you sip:
Spicy Appetizers
The sharpness of the Gimlet cuts through spicy flavors beautifully. The drink’s acidity and sweetness can cool down your palate after a bite of something with a kick.
Fresh Seafood
Seafood and citrus are a match made in culinary heaven. The Gimlet’s lime base complements the delicate taste of sushi or ceviche, elevating the overall dining experience.
Grilled Chicken
The tartness of the Gimlet pairs well with the charred, smoky flavors of grilled chicken. It’s a refreshing counterbalance to the savory taste of the meat.
I adore Gimlets for their punchy lime twist—it’s like a burst of summer in every sip!
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh lime juice for the brightest flavor.
- A perfectly balanced Gimlet should have a harmony between sweet and tart—adjust the syrup to taste.
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep the drink extra cold and refreshing.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Gimlet, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Gimlet
- Gin: Can be swapped for vodka if you prefer a smoother taste.
- Sweetener: Agave nectar or honey can replace simple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
- Citrus: Try using a different citrus juice like grapefruit for a unique twist.
Gimlet Variations
French Gimlet
- Ingredients: Gin, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, lime juice.
- Recipe: Mix the ingredients and serve over ice for a floral take on the classic.
Southside
- Ingredients: Gin, lime juice, simple syrup, mint leaves.
- Recipe: Muddle the mint, shake the rest of the ingredients, and serve for a mojito-esque version.
Cucumber Gimlet
- Ingredients: Gin, lime juice, simple syrup, cucumber slices.
- Recipe: Muddle cucumber with syrup and lime, add gin, shake, and strain for a refreshing variant.
For a non-alcoholic version of a Gimlet, simply replace the gin with soda water. Add lime juice and simple syrup to taste, and garnish with a lime wheel.
Q&A
Can Gimlets be made ahead of time?
Absolutely, prep your Gimlet mixture without ice and store it in the fridge. Just add to a shaker with ice when you’re ready to serve.
Is the Gimlet a summer-only drink?
No way! Its zesty flavor can brighten up even the coldest winter day, making it perfect year-round.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
You could, but fresh juice is always best for flavor. The difference is like night and day!
What’s the best gin to use for a Gimlet?
A London dry gin is traditional, but feel free to experiment with different brands to find your favorite.
How can I make my Gimlet less sweet?
Easy, just reduce the amount of syrup or use a less sweetened lime cordial.
Are there any non-citrus variations of the Gimlet?
Sure, get creative! Use different fruit purees or flavored syrups to make your own signature version.
