Basil Lime Smash Recipe
white grape verajus, lime super juice, basil simple syrup
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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Basil Simple Syrup (makes ~8 oz)
Method
Basil Simple Syrup
- 1
Make the syrup
Combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture just comes to a simmer (do not boil vigorously). Remove from heat.
- 2
Add 1 cup fresh basil leaves to the hot syrup, gently pressing them into the liquid with a spatula so the oils release. Let steep for 20 minutes off the heat for a bright basil flavor.
- 3
Strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a clean jar, pressing on the basil to extract liquid. Discard (or reserve) the solids. Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Syrup will keep 1–2 weeks refrigerated.
Basil Lime Smash Cocktail
- 4
Place 6 fresh basil leaves in a cocktail shaker or mixing glass.
- 5
Add 0.75 oz fresh lime juice, 0.75 oz basil simple syrup, and 2 oz white grape verjus to the shaker.
- 6
Optional: add 1 oz gin or a light white spirit if you want an alcoholic version. If keeping it mocktail, omit the spirit.
- 7
Gently muddle the basil leaves with the liquids 6–8 times — press to release aromatic oils but avoid shredding the basil into tiny bits.
- 8
Fill the shaker with ice (crushed is ideal for a smash) and shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds to chill and slightly dilute the mixture.
- 9
Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice (or a chilled coupe if serving neat). Use a fine strain if you want to remove small basil fragments.
- 10
Top with 1 oz club soda if you prefer a lighter, spritz-style drink. Gently stir once to combine.
- 11
Garnish with a fresh basil sprig and a lime wheel or wedge. Clap the basil between your palms once and place it atop the drink to heighten the aroma.