In last week’s edition of Tastes Like Home, I mentioned a watermelon cocktail I had at the home of friends. Today, by request, I am posting a recipe for the cocktail based on my taste memory.
Make this drink based on your personal taste and be sure to read the notes below.
INGREDIENTS
- 10 cups chopped watermelon
- 1 tablespoon finely minced ginger
- Simple Syrup to taste
- Vodka to taste
- 8 – 10 basil leaves
DIRECTIONS
- Blend the watermelon in 2 batches along with the ginger and pour into a large jug.
- Sweeten to taste.
- Pour vodka into the mixture, stir to mix and taste, adjust by adding more syrup or vodka to suit your taste.
- Tear the basil leaves and mix them into the drink. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. The longer the drink sits, the better it tastes.
- Serve cold or pour over ice.
NOTES
- Pass the blended watermelon and ginger through a sieve for a smooth drink, and to remove any minced watermelon seeds that might have been missed in the process of cutting.
- Tearing the basil leaves quickly releases the flavour of the herb but if you prefer a more subtle flavour, leave the leaves whole or go half and half – torn and whole.
- Instead of ice cubes made of water, blend extra watermelon (only), freeze the juice in ice trays and serve with the cocktail.
- To make simple syrup, add equal amounts (volume) sugar and water in a saucepan, place over medium heat and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Bring to a boil for 1 minute then remove from heat and let cool completely. Use either brown or white sugar. I tend to use white sugar for syrups where I want the drink to retain the natural colour of the fruit.
- This drink can be made a day ahead.
