Ankle Breaker Cocktail Recipe

The Ankle Breaker cocktail is a classic drink that originated in the 1920s during the Prohibition era. It was created by a bartender named Charlie, who worked at a speakeasy in New York City. The cocktail was named after its ability to make patrons feel like they were walking on air, often leading to some unsteady footing.

• The Ankle Breaker was popular among flappers and gangsters alike
• It was often served at secret underground parties during Prohibition
• The cocktail has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, thanks to the craft cocktail movement

The Ankle Breaker is a complex and well-balanced cocktail, featuring a combination of sweet, sour, and bitter flavors. It has a strong, yet smooth, alcohol kick with a hint of citrus and herbal notes.

• The Ankle Breaker was rumored to be a favorite drink of Al Capone
• The original recipe called for bathtub gin, but modern versions use high-quality gin
• The cocktail is sometimes referred to as the 'Flapper's Delight'

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
2. Add gin, lemon juice, triple sec, absinthe, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters
3. Shake well until chilled
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass
5. Garnish with a lemon twist

• Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a brighter flavor
• Chill your glass before pouring the cocktail to keep it cool for longer
• Use a high-quality gin for a smoother taste

Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, particularly goat cheese or aged cheddar, can complement the botanical notes of gin and the zesty lemon.

Seafood: Light seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or ceviche can enhance the freshness of the lemon and play nicely with the complexity of the cocktail.

Fried Appetizers: Fried calamari or tempura vegetables provide a crispy contrast to the sharp and herbaceous notes of the cocktail.

Desserts: Lemon tart or vanilla-based desserts will harmonize with the citrus and sweet notes in the Ankle Breaker.

• Vodka can be used instead of gin for a different flavor profile
• Lime juice can replace lemon juice if desired
• If you don't have triple sec, Cointreau or Grand Marnier can be used

Elderflower Ankle Breaker

• Substitute triple sec with 0.5oz of elderflower liqueur for a floral twist.
• Recipe remains the same with the substitution.
• The floral notes will add a light, fragrant sweetness, creating a more aromatic experience.

Spicy Ankle Breaker

• Add a small slice of jalapeño to the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
• Shake as usual.
• The jalapeño will infuse a spicy kick that compliments the citrus and botanical notes, adding another layer of complexity.

Berry Ankle Breaker

• Muddle a few fresh raspberries in the shaker before adding the ingredients.
• Follow the original recipe afterward.
• The raspberries will impart a fruity and slightly tart flavor, changing the drink's profile to something sweeter and more playful.