Namaste and Hello! My name is Ravi Dube, and I am excited to share with you my take on a refreshing summer cocktail recipe, the Rhubarb and Rosemary Gin Fizz. This recipe is particularly relevant to me because I grew up in India, where rhubarb is not commonly used. However, as a world traveler and cocktail enthusiast, I am always searching for unique ingredients to add to my concoctions. The tart flavor of rhubarb paired with the freshness of rosemary creates a perfect balance that I can’t wait for you to taste.
Ravi was born and raised in New Delhi, India, but left to pursue his passion for photography and travel. When he’s not capturing breathtaking landscapes around the world, he enjoys sipping unique cocktails and experimenting with his own recipes.
Ravi Dube currently resides in Australia and grew up in India.
Did you know that the origin of the Gin Fizz dates back to the late 1800s? This classic cocktail is all about balance, with gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup being major components. But what sets the Rhubarb and Rosemary Gin Fizz apart is the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients that add a special twist to this timeless drink. Rhubarb was initially used as a medicinal plant that grew in Asia, and it wasn’t until the 1800s that it found its way into the culinary world. So, not only is this cocktail delicious, but it’s also a fun way to learn about the history and origin of unique ingredients.
With the weather getting warmer, and outdoor gatherings becoming more popular as we approach Memorial Day, the Rhubarb and Rosemary Gin Fizz is the perfect cocktail to introduce to your summer repertoire. May 17th is National Rhubarb Day, so what better way to celebrate than with this delicious cocktail? Its vibrant color, fresh tangy taste, and light fizz are sure to impress your guests and leave them begging for the recipe. So, grab your cocktail shaker, and let’s get mixin’!
What you need
My dear cocktail-loving friends, let me tell you about the Refreshing Rhubarb and Rosemary Gin Fizz! This vibrant twist on a classic cocktail will add some pizzazz to your summer parties and outdoor gatherings. The drink is a perfect blend of sweet and sour with a tangy flavor from fresh rhubarb and a refreshingly aromatic note from rosemary. Crushed rhubarb and rosemary are given a good shake with gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, while soda water adds a light fizz to make it well-rounded. It’s easy and quick to make, so you can start impressing your guests in no time. Trust me, once you try this glorious drink, you’ll keep coming back for more!
Ingredients:
- Rhubarb – The star of this cocktail, rhubarb brings a tart and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the other ingredients. It cannot be easily swapped.
- Fresh Rosemary – Rosemary adds a refreshing aromatic touch to this gin fizz. If you don’t have fresh rosemary, you can use dried rosemary. Start with a small amount, as it is more concentrated than fresh.
- Gin – A classic ingredient in gin fizz, which provides the alcoholic base. You can use any brand of gin you prefer.
- Lemon Juice – Lemon juice brings a natural sour taste that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- Simple Syrup – Simple syrup brings a touch of sweetness to this cocktail. If you don’t have simple syrup, you can make it at home by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat and simmer for a few minutes, until the syrup thickens.
- Soda Water – Soda water adds a fizzy touch to this cocktail, creating a refreshing and thirst-quenching drink.
- Ice Cubes – Ice cubes are essential to chill your cocktail and keep it enjoyable on hot days.
Utensils:
- Cocktail Shaker – Not essential but recommended. If you don’t have one, you can use a large mason jar with a tight lid as an alternative.
- Muddler – The muddler is used to crush the rhubarb and release its juices. If you don’t have one, you can use a wooden spoon or a fork instead.
- Jigger – A jigger is a small measuring device that is used to measure the exact amount of alcohol and other ingredients in cocktails. If you don’t have one, you can use a shot glass as an alternative.
- Strainer – A strainer allows you to remove any pulp or seeds from the cocktail and ensure a smooth texture. If you don’t have one, you can use a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth instead.
- Cocktail glasses – Any type of glassware works fine for serving this gin fizz cocktail, but traditional options include highball or Collins glasses, or if you want to make it fancier, champagne flutes.
- Ice Bucket – Not essential but recommended for keeping extra ice on hand for refilling glasses.
Rhubarb – The Star of This Gin Fizz
Rhubarb is an interesting ingredient, dear reader, as it is often used in desserts, pies, and other sweet dishes, but less commonly used in cocktails. However, the tart and tangy flavor it brings to this gin fizz cocktail is what really makes it shine, beautifully balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients. Rhubarb is also interesting because, despite being a vegetable, it is often used like a fruit. It is low in calories and contains vitamin C and fiber. In large quantities, however, rhubarb can be problematic, as it contains oxalic acid, which can cause kidney stones. Rest assured, this cocktail doesn’t contain enough rhubarb to be a health hazard, and it tastes fantastic, so drink up!
Fresh Rosemary – Aromatic Twist to this Gin Fizz
Fresh rosemary is an interesting addition to this gin fizz cocktail, as it brings an earthy, aromatic touch to the drink that pairs perfectly with the tangy flavor of the rhubarb. In general, rosemary is a versatile herb that can be used in many dishes, such as roasted meats, salads, or dressings. Did you know, dear reader, that rosemary was used in ancient times to improve memory and boost the immune system? Nowadays, it is known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Rosemary is also rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, and iron. That said, the amount of rosemary used in this recipe is small and does not provide enough of these nutrients to have a significant impact on your health. Nevertheless, it adds a lovely aroma and flavor to the cocktail, making it a refreshing and enjoyable drink.
What to serve it with?
I am a firm believer in the power of food to bring people together, and the Rhubarb and Rosemary Gin Fizz is no exception. This cocktail is best enjoyed with good food, great company, and a warm summer breeze. I particularly enjoy pairing it with light and fresh summer dishes, such as a strawberry and spinach salad or a grilled peach and goat cheese crostini. The sweetness of the fruit enhances the tangy and herbaceous flavors of the cocktail, making for a mouth-watering culinary experience. So, next time you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a meal al fresco, don’t forget to mix up a batch of this refreshing cocktail to elevate the flavors and the fun.
Summary
There you have it, my Refreshing Rhubarb and Rosemary Gin Fizz recipe – a perfect balance of tart, sweet, and refreshing flavors. I hope I’ve inspired you to get creative in the kitchen and made your taste buds tingle! Don’t forget to comment and let me know what you think of this recipe. Have you ever experimented with unique ingredients like fresh rhubarb? What’s your favorite summer cocktail? I’d love to hear your thoughts and discuss more. And, if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family to spread the joy of the Rhubarb and Rosemary Gin Fizz. Until next time, cheers to fun, friends, and fantastic cocktails!
Here’s the recipe:
Refreshing Rhubarb and Rosemary Gin Fizz
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
- Muddler
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Cocktail glasses
- Ice Bucket
Ingredients
- 1 cup, diced Rhubarb
- 1 sprig Fresh Rosemary
- 3 oz Gin
- 1/2 oz Lemon Juice
- 1 oz Simple Syrup
- 2 oz Soda Water
- as needed Ice Cubes
Instructions
- Muddle the rhubarb and rosemary - In a shaker, muddle the diced rhubarb and one sprig of rosemary until the rhubarb is crushed and the rosemary is aromatic. Add ice cubes to the shaker. - If you don't have a cocktail shaker, you can use a large mason jar with a tight lid instead. Be sure to crush the rhubarb well to release its juice.
- Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup - Add 3 oz of gin, 1/2 oz of lemon juice, and 1 oz of simple syrup to the shaker. - To make the cocktail sweeter, you can add more simple syrup. If you prefer your drink less sweet, adjust the amount of lemon juice and simple syrup to your liking.
- Shake and strain into glasses - Shake the cocktail shaker vigorously for 10-15 seconds until the ingredients are well mixed. Strain the cocktail into two glasses, preferably highball or Collins glasses, filled with ice cubes. - To make the drink even more refreshing, you can add some slices of fresh cucumber to the glasses before pouring the cocktail.
- Top with soda water - Pour 1 oz of soda water into each glass and stir gently to combine. Add a sprig of fresh rosemary and enjoy!
