Basil Hayden Recipe
Make Basil Hayden Recipe in just 7m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Cocktail
Garnish
Method
Cocktail
Prepare basil and glass
Muddle 4 of the fresh basil leaves in the bottom of a shaker with the simple syrup. Press gently to release oils; avoid pulverizing into a paste to keep the herbaceous brightness.
Combine ingredients
Add the bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and ice to the shaker. Add the remaining 2 basil leaves on top (these will macerate slightly during shaking). If you prefer a slightly spiced complexity, add 1 dash of Angostura bitters.
Shake
Cap the shaker and shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the outside of the shaker is cold and the mixture is well-chilled and slightly diluted.
Strain
Double-strain the cocktail into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice using a Hawthorne strainer and a fine mesh strainer to remove bits of basil. If you want a longer, lighter drink, pour over fresh ice and top with 1 oz club soda and stir gently once.
Garnish & Serve
Garnish with a fresh basil sprig: clap the sprig lightly between your palms to awaken the aroma and place it on top of the drink. Serve immediately.