Are you looking for a unique and refreshing cocktail to impress your friends? Tired of the same old drinks? Then look no further! This Aqua Velva cocktail recipe offers a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors, with a subtle herbal note that makes it both sophisticated and incredibly easy to make. It's the perfect drink for a summer evening gathering or a quiet night in. Perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas or simply delicious dishes for any occasion, this recipe is surprisingly simple and healthy. Homemade cooking doesn’t get much easier than this! This is one of those best recipes you'll want to keep handy.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Gin (London Dry style recommended)
- 1 ounce Fresh Lime Juice
- ¾ ounce Rosemary Syrup (recipe below)
- 2 Dashes Orange Bitters
- Soda Water
- Rosemary Sprig and Lime Wedge for garnish
Rosemary Syrup:
- 1 cup Water
- 1 cup Sugar
- 4 Sprigs Fresh Rosemary
Instructions:
Making the Rosemary Syrup:
- Combine water, sugar, and rosemary sprigs in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it steep for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a stronger rosemary flavor.
- Remove rosemary sprigs and store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 2 weeks.
Making the Aqua Velva Cocktail:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the gin, lime juice, rosemary syrup, and orange bitters to the shaker.
- Close the lid tightly and shake well for about 15 seconds until the shaker is chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with soda water.
- Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a lime wedge.
Tips for the Best Aqua Velva Cocktail:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and rosemary make a world of difference in the flavor of this cocktail.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of rosemary syrup. You can also adjust the sweetness by using less sugar when making the syrup.
- Chill Your Glassware: Chilling your glass will help keep your cocktail cold for longer.
- Don't Over-Shake: Over-shaking can make your drink cloudy. Aim for a good shake, but not an overly vigorous one.
Variations:
- For a sweeter drink: Add a ½ ounce of simple syrup in addition to the rosemary syrup.
- For a more herbaceous taste: Add a few drops of elderflower liqueur.
- For a different twist: Substitute vodka or white rum for the gin.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a calorie count that varies depending on the specific ingredients used. However, as a general guideline, it will be relatively low in calories, likely under 200 calories per serving, and virtually fat-free due to the minimal ingredients. The specific carbohydrate and sugar content will depend on the amount of rosemary syrup used.
This Aqua Velva cocktail is a delicious and easy-to-make drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy responsibly!