This post was originally published on July 14, 2020.
~~~
Well here’s a refreshing summertime cocktail from across the pond. It’s perfect for those hazy, lazy weekend afternoons when you need a lil’ chilled beverage to wet your whistle.
My first introduction to Pimm’s was while I lived in England during grad school. Having started in the autumn, I didn’t get to experience this loveliness until many months into my academic year.
There’s a winter version, though, which is hot and hits the spot when it’s cold outside and all you want to do is sit by a flickering flame in a quiet corner of an old English pub. Or on your couch watching Netflix here in America.
As it’s been a very many number of years since my time living in England, I made sure to investigate the correct way to make Summer Pimm’s. Cuz, really, it’s nothing if it’s not authentic.
I found a great recipe from the BBC that launched my own version. I also found this article that has some great additional tidbits of information and tips while combining all of the goodness.
Now, it must be said that Pimm’s may not be the easiest to find here in the US. I had searched a number of years before I finally found it at a local store. And, you may be asking yourself, what is Pimm’s in the first place, Kristina?
Pimm’s is itself a brand and a type of British liqueur. It’s gin-based and has a subtle spice and citrus taste. It’s quite light but also makes this cocktail unsuitable for the under 21 crowd. Unless you’re enjoying it in Britain, in which case, you can be under 21 and have a glass because their drinking laws are different, which, you know.
I also want to point out that the recipes I referenced mention Pimm’s and lemonade. This may confuse you living here in the States. Lemonade to the Brits is what a lemon-lime soda is to Americans.
Well, let’s get to it.
Pimm’s No. 1
Lemon-lime soda
Ice
Cucumber
Orange
Strawberries
Fresh mint leaves
Basically, you want to get a large enough jug, about 2-3 liters to mix everything in. Take one part Pimm’s to about 3 parts lemon-lime soda. Fill the jug with pa-lenty of ice, pour the Pimm’s over top (I measured out about 400 ml, or about 2 cups) and then pour the lemon-lime soda (I ended up using about 48 ounces) and do the initial stir.
Then add the orange and cucumber that you sliced, the strawberries with the stems off and halved and add to the mixture. When adding the mint leaves, try lightly crushing them in your hand to release some more of their scent and flavor. Stir it all again.
Serve immediately!
A highball glass may be the traditional way to drink this. But, you know me, use what you have that you find pretty and it’ll taste amazing and refreshing!
Enjoy friends!
