Description
What better way to use up the last of the summer’s basil? This refreshing drink tastes just like a breezy summer night on the porch. Enjoy!
Ingredients
- FOR THE LEMON BASIL SYRUP:
- 4 cups Packed Basil Sprigs
- 4 cups Water
- 2 cups Sugar
- 10 strips Lemon Zest, About 4″ Long
- FOR THE GIMLETS:
- 1 cup Lemon Basil Syrup
- 1 cup Vodka
- ⅔ cups Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1 cup Ice
- Lemon Zest Or Basil Springs, For Garnish
Preparation
To make the syrup, bring the basil sprigs, water, sugar and lemon zest strips to a boil in a medium pot. Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring often until the sugar is completely dissolved. Turn off the heat, cover the pot and allow it to stand at room temperature for an hour. Strain the syrup through a mesh sieve into a bowl, and then transfer the syrup to an airtight container and chill until cold, about another hour. Discard the remaining solids.
To make a batch of gimlets, combine the 1 cup syrup, vodka and lemon juice in a large shaker with about a cup of ice, and shake until frothy. Serve over ice with a garnish of lemon zest or basil sprigs.
