Are you looking for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make cocktail to impress your guests or simply enjoy a relaxing evening? Look no further than the Clover Club cocktail! This delightful drink boasts a beautiful blush-pink hue and a subtly sweet and tart flavor profile that's both refreshing and captivating. It’s a perfect example of a classic cocktail that's surprisingly easy to master, making it ideal for both experienced mixologists and those just starting their cocktail journey. Let's dive into this delicious and easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Gin (London Dry style recommended)
- 1 oz Raspberry Syrup (recipe below)
- ¾ oz Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 Egg White (optional, but adds a lovely texture)
- Raspberry & Lemon wedge for garnish
Making the Raspberry Syrup:
- 1 cup Fresh Raspberries
- ½ cup Water
- ½ cup Sugar
Instructions for the raspberry syrup:
- Gently muddle the raspberries in a small saucepan.
- Add water and sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries have broken down and the syrup thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
- Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds. Let cool completely before using.
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, raspberry syrup, lemon juice, and egg white (if using).
- Dry Shake: Close the lid tightly and shake vigorously without ice for about 15 seconds. This step helps emulsify the egg white and create a frothy texture. If omitting the egg white, skip this step.
- Add Ice: Add ice to the shaker.
- Shake Again: Shake well again for another 15-20 seconds until the shaker is thoroughly chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Double strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass. This removes any ice chips and ensures a smooth, elegant finish.
- Garnish: Garnish with a fresh raspberry and a lemon wedge.
Tips for the Best Clover Club:
- Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of this cocktail hinges on the quality of your ingredients. Freshly squeezed lemon juice and good quality gin make all the difference.
- Don't Over-Shake: Over-shaking can dilute the cocktail and make it less flavorful. Aim for a good, thorough shake but avoid excessive shaking.
- Egg White Alternative: If you're avoiding egg whites, you can still achieve a frothy texture by using a high-quality aquafaba (chickpea brine). Use the same amount as the egg white.
- Adjust Sweetness: The sweetness of this cocktail can be adjusted to your preference. Start with the recipe as written and add a touch more raspberry syrup or lemon juice to fine-tune it to your liking.
Variations:
- Rosemary Clover Club: Muddle a sprig of fresh rosemary with the raspberries before making the syrup for an herbaceous twist.
- Champagne Clover Club: Top the cocktail with a splash of chilled champagne or sparkling wine for a celebratory feel.
- Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace the gin with sparkling raspberry juice or a seedless raspberry shrub for a delicious, alcohol-free alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without egg white):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 (depending on gin and syrup used)
- Carbohydrates: Variable, mainly from the raspberry syrup.
- Sugar: Variable, mainly from the raspberry syrup.
This Clover Club Cocktail recipe is a delightful addition to your cocktail repertoire. Its vibrant color, refreshing taste, and ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Enjoy responsibly!