Lounging in the back garden to a sound of a sizzling barbeque, there’s only one sound more welcome than the hiss of a cold can being cracked open.
Hearing the announcement that Pimm’s is on offer at the function is a sign that not only has summer arrived – but you’re in the midst of it. Pimm’s is a gin-based fruit drink, often categorised as a liqueur. The beverage was first concocted in 1823 by James Pimm and has been under the ownership of British firm Diageo since 1997. Pimm’s is frequently linked with British summers due to its light and refreshing flavour. It’s also the preferred tipple at Wimbledon, frequented by royals and celebs alike. Luckily, crafting Pimm’s requires only a few ingredients and the process is quite simple. However, there are some common blunders that can ruin this perfect summer drink, according to experts at The Bar.
A classic Pimm’s is more than just the liquid; the garnish plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect serve. Fresh mint is vital for that truly delightful taste of summer we all adore, so make sure not to leave it out.
Don’t be stingy with the ice – Pimm’s is best on the rocks – and lots of them.
The ideal Pimm’s must be ice cold, so ensure your glass is brimming with ice for a refreshing summer tipple. If you can be bothered you can also freeze your glasses.
While lemon adds a deliciously tangy twist to Pimm’s, the ultimate serve extends far beyond this. The perfect Pimm’s recipe should incorporate strawberry, cucumber, orange, and mint, which all harmonise wonderfully for an authentic taste of a British summer.
The ingredients listed below will enable you to prepare two glasses of Pimm’s. Of course, these quantities can be increased if catering for a larger gathering.
Classic Pimm’s recipe
Serves two
Ingredients
- 50ml Pimm’s No. 1.
- 150ml lemonade
- Sprigs of mint
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced orange
- Strawberries
- Highball glass
- Ice
Method
- Load the glass with ice and introduce the Pimm’s and lemonade.
- Give the beverage a hearty stir and adorn with the mint, cucumber and orange.
- For larger gatherings, you can add all proportional quantities of the ingredients to a jug and pour to serve.
If you fancy something a bit different – using strawberry gin is a great way of updating the classic Pim’s’ recipe for summer with a fresh take on a British cocktail stalwart. This one has been created by chef Ben Ebbrell from the British Youtube channel Sorted Food.
Ben said: “Obviously typically ‘Pimms’ is made with lemonade and then has all the various bits in, strawberry being one (along with apple, orange, cucumber and mint).
“To make it work with this Strawberry Gin Liqueur use 1/2 lemonade (clear not cloudy) and 1/2 soda water.”
Strawberry Gin ‘Pimms’ recipe
Serves two
Ingredients
100ml strawberry gin
150ml clear lemonade
150ml soda water
Method
Dice a handful of cucumber, apple and orange. Mix these with a few springs of mint.
Add your gin, clear lemonade and soda water.
Served over in two highball glasses.
Method
Dice a handful of cucumber, apple and orange. Mix these with a few springs of mint.
Add your gin, clear lemonade and soda water.
Served over in two highball glasses.