Suze Sour Cocktail Recipe
Suze Sour Nutrition Facts
Calories:~150
Fat:0g
Protein:~2g
Carbohydrates:~11g
Alcohol %:~10%
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 Suze Sour is a modern twist on the classic sour cocktails that have been enjoyed for over a century. Its main ingredient, Suze, is a French aperitif known for its bitter and herbal qualities, made from the gentian root.
- Origins
- The sour cocktail family dates back to the 19th century.
- Suze was introduced in France in 1889.
- Popularity
- The Suze Sour is particularly favored by those who appreciate a balance of bitterness and acidity in their drinks.
- Cultural Impact
- While not as globally renowned as some classic cocktails, the Suze Sour has a dedicated following among cocktail enthusiasts.
How Suze Sour Tastes?
The Suze Sour offers a complex flavor profile that is both refreshing and bold. It's distinctly bitter due to the Suze, with a citrusy tang from the lemon juice, and a subtle sweetness from the simple syrup. The egg white adds a creamy texture and helps to balance the flavors, making it a well-rounded and sophisticated drink.
Interesting facts about Suze Sour
- Suze is made from wild gentian plants that are aged for several years.
- The 'sour' cocktail formula typically includes a base spirit, citrus juice, and a sweetener.
- Egg whites are used in sours to create a frothy texture and are known as a 'Boston Sour' when included.
Ingredients
- Suze: 1.5 oz(45ml)
- Lemon juice: 1 oz(30ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Egg white: 1
- Angostura bitters: 2 dashes
- Ice cubes: As needed
- Lemon twist: 1 garnish
Suze
A key ingredient, Suze is a French aperitif with a bitter, herbal profile that gives our cocktail its distinct character. 1.5 oz strikes the balance between assertive and overwhelming. Too much and you're in bitter town, too little and the cocktail lacks its trademark punch.
Alex Green
Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (please, no bottled stuff) provides a zip of acidity, brightening up the drink. If life doesn't give you lemons, though, you could substitute with lime juice for a twist.
Mary Mitkina
Simple Syrup
Sweetness to counteract the bitter and sour profiles. It's the peacemaker of the flavors. Too much and it's cloying; too little and you might pucker up more than at your first kiss.
Emma Rose
Egg White
Creates that silky foam top and smooth mouthfeel which makes the sip as luxurious as a cashmere blanket. It's not for bodybuilders only; it's for cocktails too! Skip it and you lose the foam party.
Alex Green
Angostura Bitters
This is like the spice cabinet in a dash. It adds depth and complexity that makes the drink sing a little louder. If things go bitter between us and you run out, orange bitters can step in for a citrusy hug.
Mary Mitkina
Ice Cubes
They're here to chill things down. A cold cocktail is a happy cocktail. No ice means warm and possibly awkward sips.
Emma Rose
Lemon Twist
It's not just a pretty face; the oils expressed over the drink add a final zesty note. Without it, the cocktail might feel like a sentence without a period.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Suze Sour Drink
- In a shaker, combine Suze, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white.
- Dry shake (without ice) vigorously to emulsify the egg white.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again until well-chilled.
- Double strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Add two dashes of Angostura bitters on top of the foam.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Pro Tips
- Always use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.
- When dry shaking, shake for at least 15 seconds to ensure a good froth.
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep the cocktail cold longer.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Charcuterie Board: The herbal notes of Suze complement the savory flavors of cured meats and aged cheeses.
- Smoked Salmon: The acidity of the lemon juice cuts through the fattiness of the salmon.
Main Courses
- Grilled White Fish: Delicate white fish pairs nicely with the bright and slightly bitter notes of the cocktail.
- Roast Chicken: The citrus element can lighten up an otherwise hearty dish.
Desserts
- Lemon Tart: Echoes the citrus in the cocktail and the bittersweet profile matches well with the tart filling.
- Dark Chocolate: A piece of dark chocolate can be a nice contrast to the Suze's herbal bitterness.
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What you could change in Suze Sour
- Suze: If Suze is not available, you can substitute it with another gentian-based aperitif like Salers or even Campari for a different twist.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh is best, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.
- Simple Syrup: Agave syrup or honey syrup can be used as a substitute, adjusting the sweetness to taste.
Explore all drinks starting with S here
And of course - twists🍹
Ginger Suze Sour
Swap out simple syrup for ginger syrup and add a few slices of fresh ginger to the shaker for a spicy kick. This version will be zingier and pair beautifully with Asian cuisine.
Suze Sour Spritz
Reduce Suze to 1 oz, omit egg white, and top with soda water after straining into the glass. Lighter and bubbly, this spritz is perfect for a summer day.
Blackberry Suze Sour
Muddle a few blackberries in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. The berries add a fruity sweetness and a beautiful purplish hue, making it a hit at garden parties.
In case you forgot basics how to make Suze Sour
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 strainGarnishing 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 Suze Sour
Can Suze Sour be considered a good beginner's cocktail?
Due to its unique taste profile, the Suze Sour can be a little challenging for beginners. It's recommended for those with a palate for bitter and herbal flavors.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of Suze Sour?
A non-alcoholic version can be made using a non-alcoholic aperitif with bitter notes, lemon juice, simple syrup, and an egg white alternative like aquafaba.
What kind of food pairs well with a Suze Sour?
Its bitterness and acidity pair nicely with rich, fatty foods like charcuterie, cheese platters, or creamy pasta dishes.
How can I prevent my cocktail from being too frothy?
To control the frothiness, ensure not to over-shake your cocktail after adding the egg white. A steady, controlled shake will provide a nice balance.
Can I skip the garnish when making a Suze Sour?
While you can skip the garnish, a lemon twist adds a touch of aroma and visual appeal to the overall cocktail experience.
How do I know if my egg white is fresh enough to use in a cocktail?
Check the freshness of an egg by placing it in a bowl of water. Fresh eggs sink and lie flat on their sides, while older eggs may float or stand upright.
Is it safe to consume cocktails with egg whites?
Yes, consuming cocktails with egg whites is generally safe, but ensure the eggs are fresh and handled properly to minimize the risk of salmonella.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making a Suze Sour?
Common mistakes include using old citrus juice, not shaking long enough to chill the drink, and incorrect measurement of ingredients, which can affect the taste and texture of the cocktail.
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