Strawberry Caipiroska Recipe

1. Wash and hull

Rinse the strawberries under cold water, remove the green tops, and pat dry.

2. Chop the strawberries roughly into quarters so they release juice more easily.

3. Combine the chopped strawberries, granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons water in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.

4. Gently simmer for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the sugar dissolves into a thick, jammy syrup. Do not let it boil vigorously.

5. Remove from heat, stir in 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, and let cool for 5 minutes.

6. If you prefer a smooth syrup, press the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing with the back of a spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. For a pulpy syrup, skip sieving and keep the fruit bits.

7. Transfer the syrup to a jar and chill in the refrigerator until ready to use. Makes about 6–8 tablespoons.

8. Cut the whole lime into 8 wedges. Reserve one small wedge for garnish if desired.

9. In a sturdy old-fashioned or rocks glass, place 4 lime wedges and 2 tablespoons strawberry syrup.

10. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, firmly muddle the lime wedges with the syrup to release the lime oil and juice and to combine flavors. Do not over-muddle to avoid excessive bitterness from the pith.

11. Fill the glass about three-quarters full with crushed ice (roughly 3/4 to 1 cup).

12. Pour 2 oz vodka over the ice and gently stir 6–8 times to chill and blend the ingredients.

13. If you want a slightly lighter drink, top with a splash (about 1 tablespoon) of club soda and stir once gently.

14. Garnish with a halved fresh strawberry on the rim and a mint sprig if using. Add the reserved lime wedge or tuck it into the glass.

15. Serve immediately with a short stirring straw so the drink can be re-mixed as the ice melts.