📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 14%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 10g
Prep time 3 minutes
Imagine you’re about to sip the coolest, most refreshing drink on a hot summer day. That’s the South Side cocktail for you – a delicious mix of mint, lemon, and a touch of sweetness that dances on your tongue. Let’s dive into the world of South Sides together and explore its history, flavors, and the perfect way to enjoy it. ⬇️
History
The South Side cocktail has its roots in the Prohibition era, where it became a favorite among the jazz clubs and speakeasies. It’s a drink steeped in Americana, capturing the spirit of a bygone era with every sip.
- The name ‘South Side’ is believed to have originated from the South Side district of Chicago.
- Some say it was the preferred cocktail of notorious gangster Al Capone whose gang operated out of the South Side.
- Others argue that the South Side was a creation of the 19th Hole at the New York’s National Golf Links.
The taste of a South Side?
When you take a sip of a South Side, you’re greeted with a bright, refreshing burst of citrus and mint. It’s a tad sweet and a bit tart, making it a perfectly balanced summer drink.
I personally love drinking South Sides because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about South Side
- The South Side is often compared to the Mojito, but it traditionally uses gin instead of rum.
- It’s said that the mint in the cocktail was originally used to mask the taste of inferior Prohibition-era liquor.
- During the summer months, South Side becomes a popular choice at tennis and golf clubs.
Ingredients 📃
- Gin: 2 oz (60ml)
- Fresh lemon juice: 1 oz (30ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Fresh mint leaves: 6-8
- Ice cubes: As needed
Cocktail glass is the best type to use when serving a South Side because it showcases the drink’s elegance and allows the aroma of mint to reach the nose. Alternatively, a highball glass can also be suitable, offering a more casual drinking experience.
Recipe. How to make South Side 🍹
- Muddle the fresh mint leaves with 0.5 oz of simple syrup in the bottom of the shaker.
- Add 2 oz of gin and 1 oz of fresh lemon juice into the shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a cocktail glass filled with ice.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint or a slice of lemon.
While a South Side cocktail can be a delightful treat, it’s important to remember it has sugar and calories. You could make a healthier version by using natural sweeteners like honey or agave and adding less of it. The fresh mint and lemon juice do provide some health benefits, such as aiding in digestion and giving a dose of vitamin C.
Food Pairings
The right food can turn a simple cocktail into a symphony of flavors. Here are some perfect matches for your South Side that will elevate your tasting experience:
Light Appetizers
The crispness of the South Side complements the subtle flavors of light appetizers like melon wrapped in prosciutto or cucumber sandwiches. The cocktail cuts through the richness while refreshing the palate.
Spicy Dishes
The cooling effect of the mint and the acidity of the lemon in a South Side can tame the heat of spicy foods. Try it with spicy Thai noodles or fiery buffalo wings for a balanced flavor experience.
Seafood
The South Side’s bright and herby notes make it a natural partner for seafood. Whether it’s oysters on the half shell or grilled shrimp, the cocktail enhances the oceanic flavors.
I really enjoy the taste of South Sides—the cool mint and zesty lime make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
🍸 Mix up your beverage routine
Receive the freshest cocktail recipes and bar trends directly in your inbox.
Bartender Advice
- Always use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for the best flavor.
- Gently muddle the mint to release its oils without turning it bitter.
- Double strain the cocktail to avoid mint bits in your glass for a smoother drink.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic South Side, 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 South Side
- Swap out gin for vodka if you’re looking for a smoother, less botanical flavor.
- Add a splash of club soda for a fizzy take on the classic.
- Experiment with different sweeteners like honey or agave nectar to adjust the sweetness.
South Side Variations
The North Side
- Ingredients: Substitute the gin with vodka and add cucumber slices.
- Recipe: Follow the standard South Side recipe, adding cucumber to the shaker before muddling.
The East Side
- Ingredients: Keep the gin and add cucumber slices along with the mint.
- Recipe: Muddle cucumber with the mint and follow the rest of the South Side instructions.
The West Side
- Ingredients: Use tequila instead of gin and add a pinch of salt.
- Recipe: Shake tequila, lemon juice, simple syrup, mint, and salt with ice, then strain and serve.
A ‘Virgin South Side’ is just as delightful without the alcohol. Just skip the gin and add a splash of soda water for a refreshing, non-alcoholic treat.
Q&A
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh is best! Bottled juice can contain preservatives that alter the fresh flavor of your South Side.
What’s the ideal mint to use?
Spearmint is your go-to for South Sides. It’s less intense than peppermint and complements the citrus beautifully.
Is there a sugar-free version of the South Side?
Absolutely! Use a sugar substitute like Stevia or skip the sweetener altogether if you prefer your drinks tart.
How can I make my South Side look extra fancy?
Add a creative garnish! A mint sprig, a twist of lemon, or even an edible flower can do the trick.
Can I prepare South Sides in advance?
It’s best made fresh, but you can prep the lemon juice and simple syrup ahead of time. Just muddle and shake when you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best way to muddle mint?
Be gentle! You want to lightly bruise the leaves to release the oils, not tear them to bits. This way, you’ll get all the flavor without the bitterness.
