Lemongrass In A Glass: 5 Cocktails That Highlight This Summer Ingredient
Out of the different herbs that are used in Asian culinary cultures, one which stands out for its distinct aroma and slightly sharp flavour is lemongrass. Often used in the preparation of soups, broths and curries, lemongrass brings into these recipes a grassy, savoury and slightly spicy tinge which builds fragrant and flavourful tasting notes in these dishes.
And through decades, as mixology cultures have evolved, so too, bartenders have incorporated this fresh ingredient in the making of different herbal cocktails complete with a savoury touch. In summers, lemongrass is an especially interesting addition to drink blends not only because it is complete with bright and citrusy notes, but because it is also versatile enough to work with different spirits that are used to blend these seasonal mixes.
Read on below to know more about some of the lemongrass cocktails that are blended particularly in summer weather:
Lemongrass Gin Fizz
One of the most popular lemongrass-infused drinks that can be prepared during summer is a lemongrass gin fizz. While hosting an outdoor brunch or luncheon gathering featuring an Asian theme, you can go for this blend brought together by adding 30 ml Tanqueray No. 10 Gin or any other premium gin of choice to about 1 tablespoon of lemongrass syrup. Top this off with 60 ml soda water or tonic water for the signature fizz. Gin tends to go well with foods like egg noodles and spicy curries and when imbued with lemongrass, the cocktail blends precisely into the overarching Asian theme.
Lemongrass And Vodka Collins
A savoury twist on the classic cocktail, lemongrass syrup builds another layer of herbaceous notes into an already savoury blend. Prepare the mix using 30 ml Ciroc Ultra Premium Vodka or any other premium vodka of choice and add to it just a hint of lime juice to infuse the drink with a tinge of citrus. Top it off with a splash of ginger beer or club soda to build a layer of sharp, zingy notes in this drink inspired by Asian flavours. Pair it with appetisers like Vietnamese rolls or glass noodles while serving the cocktail at a summertime, Asian-inspired affair.
Lemongrass Infused Margarita
Prepare a variation of the margarita that is complete with a touch of lemongrass to make this herb the core ingredient of the cocktail. Add 2 tablespoons of lemongrass syrup to a mix of 30 ml Don Julio Blanco Tequila or any other premium tequila of choice and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Follow the classic margarita recipe complete with the salt rim garnish and add to it a lemongrass sprig for the finish touch. The drink will acquire an earthy, zingy and citrusy touch which is well-suited to an Asian menu planned for a summertime evening gathering.
Lemongrass Sparkler
Another quintessential summertime cocktail is a classic sparkler prepared using 30 ml sparkling wine or even champagne. Introduce the flavours of lemongrass into this mix to add to it even more of summertime, herby notes that blend suitably with the effervescence of the sparkling wine. Add about 25 ml Gordon’s Original London Dry Gin or any other premium gin of choice to the mix to highlight the savoury notes in the blend and serve the cocktail at a summer brunch gathering or evening cocktail party.
Lemongrass And Rum Cooler
A favoured tropical spirit for preparing summer cocktails is a good quality dark rum. This caramelised and bitter liquor goes well with the herbal notes of lemongrass to craft a complex mix of grassy and tart flavours. Bring together 30 ml Captain Morgan Dark Rum or any other premium rum of choice with 2 tablespoons lemongrass syrup and just a splash of pineapple juice for an added tropical touch. Pair this bright, summertime mix with spicy curries and grilled meats at a summertime dinner or barbecue.
Also Read: Why Raw Mango Is The Ultimate Summer Ingredient For Fresh Beverages
Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
