Strawberry-Thyme Bramble Cocktail Recipe

The Strawberry-Thyme Bramble is a delightful twist on the classic Bramble cocktail, which originated in the UK in the 1980s. The original Bramble was a gin-based cocktail with a hint of blackberry and lemon. The Strawberry-Thyme Bramble, however, brings a new depth of flavor with the addition of fresh strawberries and thyme. This cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate a balance of sweet and sour flavors, with a hint of earthiness from the thyme.

The Strawberry-Thyme Bramble is a beautifully balanced cocktail. The sweetness of the strawberries pairs perfectly with the tartness of the lemon, while the thyme adds a subtle earthy note. The gin provides a strong, crisp base, making this cocktail a refreshing, yet complex drink.

• The Strawberry-Thyme Bramble is a modern twist on the classic Bramble, which was created by Dick Bradsell in 1980s London.
• The bramble is a type of bush that blackberries grow on, hence the name of the original cocktail.
• The addition of thyme to this cocktail gives it a unique, earthy flavor that sets it apart from other fruity cocktails.

1. Muddle the strawberries and thyme in a shaker.
2. Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
4. Strain into a glass filled with crushed ice.
5. Garnish with a strawberry and a sprig of thyme.

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
• When muddling the strawberries and thyme, be sure not to over-muddle as this can make the cocktail bitter.
• Chill your glass before serving for a super refreshing cocktail.

Food Pairings

Cheese Boards: The herbal notes in the cocktail match well with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese.

Grilled Chicken: The citrus elements in the drink provide a bright contrast to the savory flavors of the meat.

Seafood: Especially good with shellfish, as the acidity of the lemon and the sweetness from the strawberries complement the natural sweetness of the seafood.

Drink Pairings

Sauvignon Blanc: This wine could parallel the herbaceous and fruity notes of the cocktail.

Chilled Green Tea: Would make for a refreshing non-alcoholic pairing due to its earthy flavors.

• Gin: You can substitute the gin with vodka if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: If you don't have fresh lemons, you can use bottled lemon juice. However, fresh is always best.
• Simple Syrup: You can use honey or agave nectar as a natural alternative to simple syrup.

Cucumber-Basil Bramble

Ingredients: Replace strawberries with cucumber slices and basil instead of thyme.

Recipe: Muddle cucumber and basil, add the rest of the liquors, shake and strain.

Taste: This twist adds a refreshing vegetal kick with an Italian herb twist - think of it like a garden party in a glass.

Spicy Raspberry Bramble

Ingredients: Use raspberries instead of strawberries, add a small slice of jalapeño.

Recipe: Muddle raspberries and jalapeño with thyme, then proceed as original.

Taste: This version heats things up a notch with the tangy raspberries and a spicy kick, making it a vibrant dance of flavors.

Blueberry-Lavender Bramble

Ingredients: Swap strawberries for blueberries and thyme for lavender.

Recipe: Muddle blueberries and lavender, add gin, lemon, and syrup, and shake and strain.

Taste: Expect a floral and slightly sweet twist on the classic, like sipping on a fragrant summer breeze.