Cucumber Gimlet

Written by Updated on January 6, 2023 in Cocktails
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This is one of the most classic cocktails. A gimlet is a woodworking tool used to drill small holes. Born around 1928, the word Gimlet was used for this drink to describe it’s somewhat “penetrating” effects on the drinker… Other theories involve a certain British Royal Navy Rear Admiral, (and also surgeon) Sir Thomas Gimlette, who is said to have added a little lime cordial to gin to help sailors combat scurvy on long voyages.

Whatever the reason for this one, it’s a simple and incredible cocktail if you’re into a little bit of sweet and sour. I’ve done this one a hundred ways over the years but my absolute favorite version of it is with a little muddled cucumber.

Cucumber Gimlet
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Cucumber Gimlet

Recipe by Johnny BeaversCourse: CocktailsCuisine: DrinksDifficulty: Easy
Prep time

5

minutes

Ingredients

  • 2-3 OZ – Hendricks (or your favorite) Gin

  • English Cucumber (1-2 chunks)

  • 1/2 Lime

  • 2-3 TSP – Simple Syrup

Instructions

  • Fill a 16oz shaker (the large side) half way with ice.
  • Slice 2 cucumber chunks and muddle them the small side of the shaker.
  • Juice the 1/2 lime and add the juice to the muddled cucumber.
  • Add Simple Syrup and Gin.
  • Pour into ice and shake vigorously.
  • Strain (double strain if you can) into a frozen (frozen is the only way) Coupe glass.
  • Garnish with a cucumber peel or lime and enjoy!

Notes & Prep

  • Garnish with cucumber skin or lime.
  • Add a splash of lemon if you’re feeling a little saucy!
  • Sub the cucumber for Strawberry or a different fruit if you’re feeling saucy!
  • Sub Vodka for Gin if you fancy it!
  • To make your own simple syrup, combine 1:1, cane sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat (but don’t boil) and whisk until sugar is dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool.