📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 14%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 1g
Carbohydrates 25g
Prep time 3 minutes
Imagine sipping on a Mango-Basil Bramble, a cocktail that’s as refreshing as a summer breeze. This drink blends the sweetness of mango with the herbal notes of basil, creating a taste that’s both unique and delightful. In this article, we’ll explore the history, flavor, ingredients, and even some fun facts about this amazing cocktail. Ready to dive in? Let’s go! ⬇️
History
The Mango-Basil Bramble is a modern twist on the classic Bramble cocktail, which was invented in London in the 1980s. It combines the tropical flavors of mango with the aromatic freshness of basil. This cocktail has gained popularity for its refreshing and unique taste.
- The original Bramble was created by bartender Dick Bradsell in London.
- Mango and basil were added to give the drink a tropical and herbal twist.
- It quickly became a favorite in summer cocktail menus around the world.
The taste of a Mango-Basil Bramble?
The Mango-Basil Bramble tastes like a burst of tropical sunshine with a hint of garden freshness. The sweetness of the mango perfectly balances the slightly peppery and aromatic basil, making it a delightful and refreshing drink.
I personally love drinking Mango-Basil Brambles because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Mango-Basil Bramble
- The cocktail is often served with a basil leaf garnish to enhance its aroma.
- Mango puree gives the drink its vibrant color and rich flavor.
- This drink is popular in beach bars and summer parties.
Ingredients 📃
- Gin: 2 oz (60ml)
- Mango puree: 1 oz (30ml)
- Fresh basil leaves: 4-5 leaves
- Lemon juice: 1 oz (30ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Crushed ice
A Mango-Basil Bramble is best served in a **rocks glass**. This type of glass is perfect for showcasing the vibrant colors and layers of the drink. Alternatively, a **highball glass** can also be used for a taller presentation.
Recipe. How to make Mango-Basil Bramble 🍹
- Muddle *4-5 fresh basil leaves* in the bottom of a shaker.
- Add *2 oz (60ml) gin*, *1 oz (30ml) mango puree*, *1 oz (30ml) lemon juice*, and *0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup* to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.
- Garnish with a basil leaf and a slice of mango.
The Mango-Basil Bramble contains a fair amount of sugar and calories from the mango puree and simple syrup. To make a healthier version, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup and reduce the amount of sugar. Basil offers some health benefits, like aiding digestion, but be mindful of the alcohol content.
Food Pairings
Certain foods complement the flavors of a Mango-Basil Bramble, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
Grilled Chicken
The savory and slightly charred flavors of grilled chicken pair wonderfully with the sweet and herbal notes of the cocktail.
Seafood
Light seafood dishes, like shrimp or scallops, balance the fruity and refreshing flavors of the Mango-Basil Bramble.
Tropical Fruit Salad
A tropical fruit salad with mango, pineapple, and papaya enhances the cocktail’s fruity profile, creating a harmonious flavor combination.
I really enjoy the taste of Mango-Basil Brambles—the cool mint and zesty lime make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
🍸 Mix up your beverage routine
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Bartender Advice
- *Muddle* the basil leaves gently to release their oils without tearing them.
- Use *fresh mango puree* for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Shake the cocktail *vigorously* to ensure all ingredients are well mixed and chilled.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Mango-Basil Bramble, 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 Mango-Basil Bramble
- Gin: Can be replaced with vodka for a different base spirit.
- Mango puree: Can be substituted with peach puree for a different fruit flavor.
- Simple syrup: Can be replaced with honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener.
Mango-Basil Bramble Variations
Peach-Basil Bramble
- Ingredients: Gin, peach puree, basil leaves, lemon juice, simple syrup.
- Recipe: Follow the same steps as the Mango-Basil Bramble, but use peach puree instead of mango puree.
Strawberry-Basil Bramble
- Ingredients: Vodka, strawberry puree, basil leaves, lime juice, simple syrup.
- Recipe: Follow the same steps as the Mango-Basil Bramble, but use vodka and strawberry puree instead of gin and mango puree.
Mint-Mango Bramble
- Ingredients: Gin, mango puree, mint leaves, lemon juice, honey syrup.
- Recipe: Follow the same steps as the Mango-Basil Bramble, but use mint leaves instead of basil leaves and honey syrup instead of simple syrup.
For a Virgin Mango-Basil Bramble, simply omit the gin and replace it with sparkling water or club soda. This way, you can enjoy all the refreshing flavors without the alcohol.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of gin is best for a Mango-Basil Bramble?
A floral or citrus-forward gin works best to complement the fruity and herbal notes of the cocktail.
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?
Fresh basil is recommended for the best flavor and aroma, but in a pinch, you can use dried basil, though the taste won’t be as vibrant.
Is it necessary to use mango puree?
Yes, mango puree gives the drink its signature flavor and texture. However, you can experiment with other fruit purees if you prefer.
Can I make a large batch of Mango-Basil Bramble for a party?
Absolutely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix in a large pitcher. Serve over ice and garnish individually.
What can I use instead of simple syrup?
You can use honey, agave syrup, or even a sugar-free sweetener if you’re looking to cut down on sugar.
How do I make the drink less sweet?
Reduce the amount of simple syrup or mango puree, or add more lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
