Moscow Mule Cocktail Recipe

Moscow Mule Nutrition Facts

Calories:182

Fat:0 g

Protein:0 g

Carbohydrates:16 g

Alcohol:14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Moscow Mule is a classic cocktail that was created in the 1940s by John G. Martin, a spirits distributor, and Jack Morgan, the owner of the Cock 'n' Bull pub in Los Angeles. The two men wanted to create a drink that would showcase their respective products, vodka and ginger beer, and the Moscow Mule was born. The cocktail quickly gained popularity and is often credited with helping to popularize vodka in the United States.

  • The Moscow Mule is traditionally served in a copper mug, which is said to enhance the flavor and keep the drink cold.
  • The name 'Moscow Mule' is thought to be a nod to the Russian origin of vodka and the 'kick' of the ginger beer.

How Moscow Mule Tastes?

The Moscow Mule is a refreshing, slightly spicy, and tangy cocktail with a hint of sweetness. The combination of vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice creates a well-balanced and invigorating flavor profile.

Interesting facts about Moscow Mule

  • The Moscow Mule is often credited with helping to popularize vodka in the United States during the 1940s and 1950s.
  • The cocktail is traditionally served in a copper mug, which is said to enhance the flavor and keep the drink cold.
  • The name 'Moscow Mule' is thought to be a nod to the Russian origin of vodka and the 'kick' of the ginger beer.

Ingredients

A few good options for Moscow Mule are:

  • Smirnoff
  • Absolut Citron
  • Grey Goose

Learn everything on which Vodka to choose

A few good options for Moscow Mule are:

  • Brockmans
  • Silent Pool Gin
  • Hendrick's Gin

Learn everything on which Gin to choose

Vodka

The spirit backbone of the drink, vodka provides a clean, crisp alcohol base that allows the flavors of the mixers to shine. 2 oz is just the right amount for a balanced kick without overpowering the subtleties of the ginger and lime. If you skip vodka, it's no longer a cocktail; it's just ginger beer with lime — bubbly but not as fun!

Emma Rose

Ginger Beer

This feisty ingredient delivers a spicy kick and effervescence that defines the Moscow Mule's character. 4 oz creates a flavorful, yet not too spicy, experience. Swap it out for ginger ale, and you'll have a milder, sweeter taste. But ginger beer is the mule's kick — lose it, and you've got a tame pony.

Alex Green

Lime Juice

With 0.5 oz, lime juice cuts through the sweetness of the ginger beer and adds a much needed tartness that brightens the whole drink. Forget the lime juice, and your mule loses its refreshing zing. It really is the citrusy soul of the cocktail.

Mary Mitkina

Fresh Lime

A slice of lime isn’t just a garnish; it's an invitation to the senses, hinting at the fresh flavors inside the mug. It also adds a touch of elegance and a pop of color. No lime slice, no final zesty flourish!

Emma Rose

Recipe. How to make Moscow Mule Drink

  1. Fill a copper mug or highball glass with ice.
  2. Add 2 oz of vodka and 0.5 oz of fresh lime juice to the glass.
  3. Top with 4 oz of ginger beer and stir gently to combine.
  4. Garnish with a lime slice and serve.

Pro Tips

  • Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
  • Chill your copper mug before making the cocktail to keep it cold longer.
  • Don't skimp on the ginger beer. It's the key ingredient that gives the Moscow Mule its distinctive taste.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

  • Grilled meats: The spicy ginger flavor complements charred, smoky meats.
  • Sushi: The freshness of the lime and the effervescence of the ginger beer pair nicely with delicate flavors of sushi.
  • Salads: A crisp salad with vinaigrette dressing could be enlivened by the zesty Moscow Mule.
  • Fish Tacos: The acidity of lime juice and the ginger beer's fizz are a perfect match for the rich flavors of fish tacos.

Drink Pairings

  • Craft Beers: Particularly those with citrus or ginger notes that echo the flavors of the Moscow Mule.
  • Iced Tea: A non-alcoholic option that still gives a refreshing kick, especially when flavored with a hint of lemon or ginger.

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What you could change in Moscow Mule

  • Vodka: You can substitute vodka with bourbon to make a Kentucky Mule.
  • Ginger Beer: If you don't have ginger beer, you can use ginger ale, but the taste will be different.
  • Lime Juice: If you don't have fresh limes, you can use bottled lime juice, but fresh is always better.

Explore all drinks starting with M here

And of course - twists🍹

Spicy Mule

  • Substitute vodka for a pepper-infused vodka.
  • Add a few slices of jalapeño to the mug before adding ice. This twist'll kick the heat up a notch, warming your taste buds while still keeping the refreshing effervescence of the classic.

Herbaceous Mule

  • Muddle a sprig of mint or basil in the mug before adding the other ingredients. This twist brings an herbal freshness, creating a garden party in your mouth that pairs beautifully with the traditional ginger and lime.

Berry Mule

  • Muddle a handful of fresh berries in the bottom of the mug. A fruity twist on the Moscow Mule, this version adds a touch of sweetness and color, emphasizing a playful and summery vibe that's perfect for outdoor gatherings.

In case you forgot basics how to make Moscow Mule

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Moscow Mule

Is a Moscow Mule a strong drink?

Not particularly. While the alcohol content may vary slightly depending on the brand of vodka used, a standard Moscow Mule is not considered a 'strong' cocktail. Its overall alcohol volume is generally around 14%, which is fairly typical for a mixed drink.

Why is the Moscow Mule served in a copper mug?

Copper mugs are known to enhance the individual flavors of the vodka, ginger beer, and lime juice. Also, copper is a great conductor of cold, helping the drink to maintain its cool temperature for a longer period.

Can I drink a Moscow Mule if I am allergic to ginger?

No, it is not advisable as the Moscow Mule contains ginger beer as a primary ingredient. If you have a known allergy to ginger, it's best to avoid this cocktail.

What foods pair well with a Moscow Mule?

The Moscow Mule pairs well with a wide variety of foods, thanks to its refreshing and slightly spicy flavor. It's particularly good with salty, fried foods and seafood.

Can I prepare a Moscow Mule in advance for a party?

Yes, you can mix the vodka and lime juice in advance, but add the ginger beer just before serving to maintain its effervescence.

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