Recipe

Basil-Vodka Gimlet

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Photo by Oui, Chef

This recipe was entered in the contest for Your Best Poolside Cocktail
wssmom's Testing Notes: Oui, Chef's basil-vodka gimlet is a summertime must! The pitch-perfect blend of basil and lime, with just the right amount of sweetness added, gets acquainted for a few minutes before the...
Oui, Chef's basil-vodka gimlet is a summertime must! The pitch-perfect blend of basil and lime, with just the right amount of sweetness added, gets acquainted for a few minutes before the addition of vodka,and the resultant combination absolutely sings! We recommend using a top-shelf vodka. Storing the bottle in the freezer before adding gives the drink a nice quality. We could definitely see using a pear or orange vodka for a little different twist. Two happy thumbs up! - wssmom

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Chef
Oui, Chef's Notes: I am for the most part a wine and beer guy, but every now and again I reach for something a bit stiffer. In the cold months that would be a bourbon, and in the summer, this drink. I first...
I am for the most part a wine and beer guy, but every now and again I reach for something a bit stiffer. In the cold months that would be a bourbon, and in the summer, this drink. I first had a basil gimlet (with gin) at a restaurant years ago, and even though I'm not a gin drinker, fell in love with the thing and vowed to come up with a vodka version ASAP. This concoction is the result of that effort launched so many years ago, and is a perfect poolside sip. - Oui, Chef

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Serves 2

6 large, fresh basil leaves, torn into strips Ask a question about this ingredient

Finely grated zest of 1/2 a lime Ask a question about this ingredient

Juice of 1 lime Ask a question about this ingredient

1/2 ounce simple syrup Ask a question about this ingredient

2 1/2 ounces vodka Ask a question about this ingredient

Put the basil strips, lime zest, lime juice and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker. Crush the leaves and the juices with a muddler and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the liquid to infuse with the basil flavor.
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Add the vodka, then fill the shaker 2/3 full with ice. Cover and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Strain the elixir into 2 chilled martini glasses, top each with a small sprig of basil and enjoy!
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Rinse and repeat!
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