This Redcurrant Cosmopolitan is a twist on a classic cocktail recipe. Swapping cranberry juice for redcurrant syrup, it is a fun and fruity variation. Get the recipe below.
Classic cocktails
When it comes to cocktails, the Cosmopolitan has earned its place as one of the greats.
It is known for its crisp, tangy flavour and pretty pink hue.
The traditional Cosmo is a blend of vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime. But I like to use a different red berry for a slightly tart twist on the classic recipe.
This stunning cocktail is perfect for a romantic date night, Christmas and New Year, or summer parties. Its striking colour and sophisticated taste is delicious at any occasion.
Swapping cranberries for redcurrants
Cranberries and redcurrants are two vibrant, jewel-like berries which make them the perfect for the holiday season. They make everything look more festive!
If cranberries can be used in a cocktail, then why not redcurrants? They work well both in the cocktail and as a garnish.
They also bring a distinctively tangy and slightly sweet flavour to the drink.
Another benefit is that they also give it a richer, deeper colour. I think you'll agree that the cocktail looks pretty, right?
Are vodka and triple sec vegan?
The alcohol in this recipe comes in the form of vodka and triple sec. You're probably familiar with vodka but perhaps less so with triple sec.
Triple sec is a clear, orange-flavoured liqueur that's a key ingredient in many cocktails like this one! There are two brands you're likely to see on supermarket shelves. They are Cointreau and Grand Marnier.
The good news is that both vodka and triple sec are vegan!
For more information about which alcoholic drinks are and aren't vegan, check out my guide to vegan alcohol here.
How to make redcurrant syrup
Sadly you can't just buy redcurrant juice to use in the Redcurrant Cosmopolitan in the supermarket so we have to make our own syrup to flavour the cocktail. The good news is that it is very easy. all you need to do is:
- Combine fresh redcurrants with sugar and water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Strain the mixture through a fine sieve, pressing the berries to extract the maximum amount of juice.
- Let it cool before using it in the cocktail.
Top tips
- Chill Your Glass: Before pouring in the cocktail, pop your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes to keep your drink cool longer.
- Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the quantity of redcurrant syrup to suit your palate. If you prefer a drier cocktail, cut back on the syrup slightly.
The recipe
Redcurrant Cosmopolitan
Ingredients
- 100 g redcurrants
- 50 g caster sugar
- 100 ml water
- 50 ml vodka
- 25 ml triple sec e.g. Cointreau or Grand Marnier
- 1 lime juice only
- redcurrants for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Combine 100 grams redcurrants with the sugar and water in a saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Strain the mixture through a sieve, pressing the berries to extract the maximum amount of juice.
- Let it cool before assembling the cocktail.
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add vodka, triple sec, redcurrant syrup, and lime juice.
- Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds to ensure it’s well-chilled and mixed.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a skewer of fresh red currants.
Nutrition
More cocktail recipes
As always, Supper in the Suburbs encourages you to drink responsibly.
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