Portland- and San Francisco–based bartender Kate Bolton has the touch for subtle, delicate drinks that go wonderfully with food. This spin on the gimlet is no exception: shaking shaved fennel and muddled arugula into the drink gives it an anise-and-pepper flavor that’s ideal for serving with seafood or light pasta dishes.
Many folks are intimidated by the idea of simple syrup. It’s time to get over our fears: no one wants a grainy mouthful of sugar in their drink. Plus, making simple syrup is actually crazy easy, especially if you happen to have a resealable jar (such as a mason jar) around. For 1:1 simple syrup, add equal parts sugar and hot water, seal, and shake until dissolved. Let cool before using and store for up to several weeks in the fridge. For 2:1 simple syrup, mix two parts sugar to one part hot water and proceed as above. Easy-peasy.
Recipe information
Yield
Makes 1 drink
Ingredients
Preparation
Using a mandoline or vegetable peeler, thinly slice enough of the fennel bulb to yield 1/4 cup (about 1/2 small bulb). Add a pinch of the fennel fronds to a cocktail shaker along with sliced fennel and arugula leaves. Add lime juice and simple syrup and muddle until the fennel is bruised. Add gin and fill with ice. Shake vigorously until chilled, about 12 seconds. Double-strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with lime wheel, arugula leaf, or nasturtium if desired.
Recipe notes
Back to topSee Related Recipes and Cooking Tips
31 Spring Cocktails for Warmer Days Ahead
Think a Hugo spritz, a gin basil smash, and plenty more patio-ready pours.27 Fennel Recipes for Crunchy Salads and Savory-Sweet Sides
Whether shaved into crunchy ribbons or caramelized and golden-sweet, fennel enhances every dish it touches.65 Father's Day Cocktails
Make dad drinks, not dad jokes.What to Cook This Weekend: April 5–7
Spring is in the air...and in this weekend-welcoming cocktail.33 Cocktails for Lovers
Love yourself? Love someone else? Either way, toast to Valentine's Day with these bright and beautiful cocktails.What to Cook This Weekend: November 16–18
Make-ahead dishes for Thanksgiving and a few easy, satisfying meals for the days leading up to it.5 Common Groceries That Make Splendid Summer Cocktails
When you combine them with a bottle of booze, of course.
