Southside Cocktail Recipe
Southside Cocktail Nutrition Facts
Calories:163
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:12g
Alcohol %:24
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
Contents
History
The Southside cocktail has a disputed history, with both the Southside gangsters of Prohibition-era Chicago and the Southside Sportsmen's Club of Long Island laying claim to its origin. Regardless of its roots, this cocktail is a favorite among gin lovers and those who appreciate a refreshing, citrusy drink. It's often referred to as a 'gin mojito', due to its similar ingredient list.
How Southside Cocktail Tastes?
The Southside cocktail is a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and botanical flavors. The gin provides a strong, juniper-forward base, while the fresh lime juice adds a tangy, citrusy punch. The simple syrup balances out the tartness with a subtle sweetness, and the mint leaves give it a refreshing, herbal finish.
Interesting facts about Southside Cocktail
- The Southside cocktail is often served in a coupe glass, which helps to concentrate its aromatic elements.
- Despite its name, the Southside cocktail is not necessarily associated with the southern United States.
- The Southside cocktail is a popular choice for summer gatherings due to its refreshing qualities.
Ingredients
- Gin: 2 oz(60ml)
- Lime juice: 1 oz(30ml)
- Simple syrup: 1 oz(30ml)
- Mint leaves: 6
- Fresh mint sprig: 1 for garnish
A few good options for Southside Cocktail are:
- Brockmans
- Silent Pool Gin
- Hendrick's Gin
Gin
Gin is the backbone of the Southside, providing a complex botanical flavor. 2 oz is a perfect amount to let the gin shine without overpowering the drink. Using too much can turn your cocktail into a juniper bear hug; too little, and your Southside might swim out to sea without you.
Mary Mitkina
Lime Juice
1 oz lime juice gives us the zesty zing we're after, balancing the sweetness and adding a fresh brightness. Imagine a world without lime juice in your Southside—it's like a summer day without sunshine!
Emma Rose
Simple Syrup
Sweetness is key, but balance is the goal. 1 oz simple syrup brings harmony to the tang of lime and the punch of gin. Tip the scales too far, you'll be sipping on a gin-infused sugar cube.
Alex Green
Mint Leaves
6 mint leaves are muddled to release their essential oils, delivering a cool, fresh kick. Miss out on the mint, and you'll miss the soul of a Southside. It's like skipping the bass line in your favorite song—it just doesn't groove the same way.
Mary Mitkina
Fresh Mint Sprig
The fresh mint sprig isn't just there to look pretty—it's an aromatic garnish that invites you to take that first blissful sip
Emma Rose
Recipe. How to make Southside Cocktail Drink
- Muddle the mint leaves and simple syrup in a shaker.
- Add the gin and lime juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled.
- Strain into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
Pro Tips
- Use a good quality gin for a better flavor profile.
- Be careful not to over-muddle the mint, as it can become bitter.
- Always strain your cocktail to remove any mint leaves and ensure a smoother drink.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Fresh seafood: Light, citrusy flavors like ceviche or shrimp cocktails complement the crispness of a Southside Cocktail.
- Finger foods: Mini tartlets or crostini topped with goat cheese and herbs are a sophisticated pairing.
Main Dishes
- Grilled Chicken or Fish: The herbal notes of the Southside can complement simple grilled dishes.
- Summer Salads: A refreshing drink like the Southside pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad with vinaigrette.
Desserts
- Lemon or Lime Sorbet: A tangy sorbet can echo the citrus notes in the cocktail.
- Fruit Tarts: A fruit tart with a buttery crust can round off the sharpness of the drink.
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What you could change in Southside Cocktail
If you're out of gin, a good substitution would be vodka. Also, if you don't have fresh limes, you can use bottled lime juice, but the fresh juice will give a better flavor.
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And of course - twists🍹
Cucumber Southside
- Add 3-4 slices of cucumber during the muddling process.
- The cucumber will add a refreshing, spa-like quality to the drink.
Spicy Southside
- Muddle in a slice of jalapeño with the mint.
- This will introduce a spicy kick that contrasts the refreshing qualities of the mint and lime.
Fizzy Southside
- Top the cocktail with club soda after straining it into the glass.
- The carbonation adds a sparkle that can lighten the cocktail's texture and enhance its refreshing qualities.
In case you forgot basics how to make Southside Cocktail
The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.
Learn everything about simple syrupAdd your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainThe key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.
Learn everything on how to muddleGarnishing 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).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Southside Cocktail
Can I replace the mint leaves with other herbs for different flavors?
Yes, you can. Some possible replacements could be basil or rosemary. However, keep in mind that it will alter the original taste of the Southside Cocktail.
Is this cocktail gluten-free?
Yes, the Southside cocktail is generally gluten-free. However, it's always recommended to check the specific brands of gin for any possible gluten content.
Besides a coupe glass, what else can I serve the Southside cocktail in?
While traditionally served in a coupe glass, the Southside cocktail can also be served in a highball or rocks glass if you prefer.
What are some food pairings that go well with the Southside cocktail?
Pair the Southside cocktail with light appetizers or seafood dishes. The citrus and herbal notes of the cocktail complement these flavors very well.
Can a non-alcoholic version of the Southside cocktail be made?
Absolutely. You can replace the gin with a non-alcoholic substitute or simply use more soda water or non-alcoholic tonic.
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