Pink Gin Cocktail Recipe

Pink Gin is a classic cocktail that dates back to the mid-19th century. It was originally created by the British Royal Navy as a way to make their daily ration of gin more palatable. The addition of Angostura bitters not only added a pleasant flavor but also helped to combat seasickness. Over time, the cocktail became popular among British officers and eventually made its way into civilian life.

• The cocktail has a rich naval history and was favored by British officers
• Pink Gin became popular in civilian life as well, especially in the UK
• The addition of Angostura bitters helped to combat seasickness and improve the taste of the gin

Pink Gin has a complex taste that is both bitter and sweet, with a strong herbal and botanical flavor from the gin and bitters. The cocktail is also slightly spicy, with a hint of citrus and a warm, lingering finish.

• Pink Gin is sometimes referred to as 'Gin and Bitters'
• The cocktail is traditionally served without ice, but modern variations may include ice or even be served as a long drink with tonic water
• The pink color comes from the Angostura bitters, which are made from a blend of herbs and spices

1. Chill a cocktail glass by filling it with ice and water, then set aside
2. In a mixing glass, combine 2oz of gin and 4 dashes of Angostura bitters
3. Stir the mixture for 20-30 seconds to combine and chill
4. Empty the ice and water from the cocktail glass
5. Strain the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass
6. Garnish with a lemon twist

• Use high-quality gin for the best flavor
• Chill the glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer
• Stir, don't shake the cocktail to prevent dilution

Appetizers

• Cheese Plates: The botanicals in gin complement a wide array of cheeses, especially those with a creamy texture such as Brie or Camembert.
• Salty Snacks: Salty nuts or pretzels can contrast nicely with the bitterness of the Angostura and the fresh zest from the lemon.
• Seafood: Particularly oysters or smoked salmon, which would benefit from the gin's crispness and the citrusy garnish.

Main Courses

• Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken would pair nicely as the Pink Gin does not overpower the delicate flavors of the poultry.
• Light Pasta Dishes: Consider pairing with a pasta tossed in a lemon butter sauce to echo the lemon twist in the drink.

Desserts

• Fruit Tarts: The brightness of the gin and lemon can stand up to the sweet and tartness of the fruit.
• Almond Biscotti: Dunk these in your Pink Gin to give a nutty undertone to the herbal and citrus notes.

• Gin: Can be replaced with vodka for a less botanical flavor
• Angostura Bitters: Can be replaced with any aromatic bitters
• Lemon Twist: Can be replaced with an orange twist for a different citrus note

Cucumber Pink Gin

• Ingredients: Replace lemon twist with a cucumber ribbon.
• Recipe: Follow the same steps, but after pouring the gin mixture into the glass, garnish with a delicate ribbon of cucumber.
• Description: The cucumber adds a spa-like freshness, creating a more garden-esque and hydrating rendition of the classic Pink Gin.

Spicy Pink Gin

• Ingredients: Add a small slice of jalapeño to the glass.
• Recipe: After stirring gin and bitters, muddle a slice of jalapeño in the glass, then strain the gin mixture over.
• Description: The jalapeño brings a fiery kick to the cocktail, turning up the heat and adding an edgy contrast to the botanicals and bitterness.

Sweet Pink Gin

• Ingredients: Add half an ounce of simple syrup.
• Recipe: Combine gin, bitters, and simple syrup in a mixing glass. Stir and strain into the chilled cocktail glass, garnishing with a lemon twist.
• Description: This twist is like giving your Pink Gin a sugar rush. Just sweet enough to be inviting, it'll smooth over the edges of the bitters for those with a sweeter tooth.