Are you looking for a refreshing and sophisticated drink that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This grapefruit bitters drink recipe is the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and subtly bitter – a delicious and healthy alternative to sugary cocktails. It's the ideal homemade beverage for a warm evening, a sophisticated brunch, or even a simple pick-me-up after a long day. This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 large pink grapefruit, freshly juiced (about 1/2 cup juice)
- 2 ounces good quality gin or vodka (adjust to your preference)
- 1 ounce simple syrup (recipe below)
- 4 dashes Angostura bitters
- 2 dashes grapefruit bitters
- Soda water or sparkling water
- Grapefruit slice and/or rosemary sprig for garnish (optional)
Simple Syrup:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
Making the Simple Syrup:
- Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring to a simmer, then remove from heat and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Making the Grapefruit Bitters Drink:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add grapefruit juice, gin or vodka, simple syrup, Angostura bitters, and grapefruit bitters to the shaker.
- Close the lid tightly and shake well for about 15-20 seconds until the shaker is chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with ice.
- Top with soda water or sparkling water.
- Garnish with a grapefruit slice and/or a rosemary sprig for an elegant touch.
Tips for the Best Grapefruit Bitters Drink:
- Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is key: Store-bought juice won't deliver the same vibrant flavor.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste: If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more simple syrup. Conversely, reduce the simple syrup for a tarter cocktail.
- Experiment with different bitters: Feel free to experiment with other types of bitters to find your perfect balance. Orange bitters or cardamom bitters could add interesting layers of flavor.
- Use high-quality alcohol: The quality of your gin or vodka will significantly impact the overall taste of the drink.
Variations:
- Grapefruit Rosemary Fizz: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary to the shaker along with the other ingredients for an herbal twist.
- Spicy Grapefruit Cocktail: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the shaker for a spicy kick.
- Non-alcoholic version: Simply omit the gin or vodka and add extra soda water for a refreshing mocktail.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, without alcohol):
- Calories: Approximately 100-150 (depending on simple syrup amount)
- Sugar: Varies depending on simple syrup amount
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin C from the grapefruit juice
This grapefruit bitters drink is a perfect example of a healthy and delicious beverage. It’s a quick dinner idea for those busy weeknights or a fantastic addition to a weekend brunch. Enjoy this easy and refreshing drink – a testament to the power of simple, homemade cooking, creating delicious dishes from readily available ingredients. This recipe is sure to become one of your best recipes. The delightful balance of flavors is guaranteed to impress your friends and family.