📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Pimm’s
Alcohol 6%
Calories 150 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 16g
Prep time 5 minutes
Imagine you’re lounging in a garden on a sunny day, and you’re handed a drink that is the essence of summer in a glass. That’s the Pimm’s Cup, a cocktail with a mix of fruity and herbal flavors, served with lots of ice and refreshing garnishes. Let’s dive into the story and essence of this classic British drink together, shall we? ⬇️
History
The Pimm’s Cup cocktail comes from London, where it began as a health tonic in the mid-1800s. It quickly became popular at social events because of its refreshing taste. Today, it’s a staple at British summertime gatherings, like Wimbledon and garden parties.
- The drink was invented by James Pimm, a farmer’s son who owned an oyster bar in London.
- Pimm’s No. 1, the base spirit of the cocktail, was first served in a small tankard called a “No. 1 Cup,” hence the name.
- The cocktail gained fame through its association with the Wimbledon tennis tournament, becoming a British summertime icon.
The taste of a Pimm’s Cup?
A Pimm’s Cup tastes like a burst of summer with its fruity and spicy flavors. It’s sweet, but not too sweet, with a hint of citrus and a spicy depth from the herbs.
I personally love the Pimm’s Cup because it’s like a garden party in a glass, full of lively flavors that dance on the tongue.
Interesting facts about Pimm’s Cup
- Pimm’s No. 1 is a gin-based liqueur infused with herbs and spices.
- The cocktail often features a “fruit salad” of garnishes, including cucumber, mint, and strawberries.
- Despite its British origins, the Pimm’s Cup has also become a staple drink in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Ingredients
- Pimm’s No. 1: 2 oz (60ml)
- Lemonade or Ginger Ale: 4 oz (120ml)
- Fresh Lemon Juice: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Garnish (Cucumber, Mint, Orange, and Strawberry): Varied amounts
Highball glass is the go-to for a Pimm’s Cup because its tall shape showcases the colorful garnishes and allows plenty of room for ice. As an alternative, a mason jar can also be used, adding a rustic charm to the presentation.
Recipe. How to make Pimm’s Cup
- Pour 2 oz (60ml) of Pimm’s No. 1 into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Add 4 oz (120ml) of lemonade or ginger ale over the ice.
- Squeeze in 0.5 oz (15ml) of fresh lemon juice.
- Garnish with slices of cucumber, mint sprigs, orange slices, and strawberries.
- Stir gently and serve immediately with a straw.
Pimm’s Cup cocktails are delightful but remember they contain sugar. To make a healthier version, try using natural sweeteners or less lemonade. Although Pimm’s No. 1 has alcohol, the drink is often diluted with lemonade or ginger ale, which reduces the overall alcohol content.
Food Pairings
Certain foods can enhance the flavors of a Pimm’s Cup, making the entire dining experience more enjoyable. Here are some classic pairings:
Afternoon Tea Sandwiches
The lightness of cucumber sandwiches or egg salad sandwiches complements the refreshing quality of a Pimm’s Cup perfectly.
Grilled Seafood
Grilled shrimp or fish, with their smoky and tender flavors, balance out the herbaceous and fruity notes of the cocktail.
Summer Salads
A fresh summer salad with berries and a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the crispness of the Pimm’s Cup.
I’m quite fond of the Pimm’s Cup for its ability to transport me to a sunny English garden with each sip, no matter where I am in the world.
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Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh fruits and herbs for garnishes to ensure the most vibrant flavor.
- For a more personalized touch, experiment with different fruit combinations to find your perfect match.
- Chill the glass before serving to keep the cocktail cool and refreshing for longer.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Pimm’s Cup, 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 Pimm’s Cup
- Lemonade: Can be swapped for tonic water for a less sweet, more bubbly texture.
- Garnishes: Try adding fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
- Pimm’s No. 1: Experiment with Pimm’s No. 3 (brandy-based) for a warmer, richer flavor.
Pimm’s Cup Variations
Pimm’s Royal Cup
- Ingredients: Pimm’s No. 1, Champagne, Cucumber, Mint
- Recipe: Replace lemonade with Champagne for a luxurious fizz.
Winter Pimm’s Cup
- Ingredients: Pimm’s No. 3, Apple Juice, Cinnamon, Orange
- Recipe: Use warm apple juice instead of lemonade and garnish with a cinnamon stick.
Spicy Pimm’s Cup
- Ingredients: Pimm’s No. 1, Ginger Beer, Lemon, Fresh Chili
- Recipe: Swap lemonade for ginger beer and add a thin slice of chili for a kick.
For those who prefer a non-alcoholic treat, a Virgin Pimm’s Cup is just as lovely. Mix equal parts of cold tea and ginger ale, then add a splash of lemon juice and the usual fruit and mint garnishes.
Q&A
What is the best time of year to enjoy a Pimm’s Cup?
While traditionally a summer drink, you can enjoy a Pimm’s Cup year-round, tailoring the garnishes and mixers to the season.
Can you make a Pimm’s Cup ahead of time?
Sure! Mix everything except the fizzy elements and garnishes, then add them just before serving to keep it fresh and bubbly.
Is it possible to make a batch of Pimm’s Cup for a party?
Absolutely, Pimm’s Cup is perfect for batching. Just scale up the ingredients and add the fizz and garnishes when you’re ready to serve.
What are some non-alcoholic substitutes for Pimm’s No. 1?
You can use non-alcoholic gin or a mixture of tea and fruit juices to mimic the complexity of Pimm’s No. 1.
Can you use other spirits in a Pimm’s Cup?
Traditionally, Pimm’s No. 1 is used, but feel free to experiment with other spirits like vodka or tequila for a twist.
How can I make my Pimm’s Cup even more refreshing?
Try muddling some fresh mint at the bottom of the glass or adding a splash of cucumber water for an extra refreshing kick.
