Description
The Gin Mandarin Smash is a bright, citrus-forward cocktail that combines the smoothness of gin with the zesty sweetness of mandarin oranges. It’s a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that’s perfect for brunches, warm afternoons, or any time you’re craving a burst of citrus flavor. The fresh mandarin pairs beautifully with gin’s botanical notes, creating a cocktail that’s both flavorful and visually stunning.
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 2 mandarin oranges (peeled and segmented)
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
- Fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
- Soda water (for topping)
- Mint sprig and mandarin slice (for garnish)
Directions
- Muddle the Fruit: In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mandarin orange segments and a few fresh mint leaves to release the juices and flavors.
- Mix the Cocktail: Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup (if using) to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake well for about 10-15 seconds.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
- Top with Soda: Top the drink with a splash of soda water for a refreshing fizz.
- Garnish: Garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of mandarin for an extra burst of citrus and visual appeal.
Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1 cocktail
Variations
- Spicy Mandarin Smash: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the shaker for a spicy kick.
- Herbal Twist: Use basil instead of mint for a different herbal flavor that pairs well with the mandarin and gin.
- Mandarin Gin Fizz: Add an egg white to the shaker for a creamy, frothy texture, turning this into a silky gin fizz.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought mandarin juice?
Yes, but using fresh mandarins will give you a brighter, fresher flavor.
What type of gin works best?
A classic London dry gin works well, but you can experiment with a more citrus-forward gin to enhance the mandarin flavor.
Is the simple syrup necessary?
If you prefer a slightly sweeter cocktail, the simple syrup balances the tartness of the citrus, but it’s optional.
Gin Mandarin Smash
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
The Gin Mandarin Smash is a light, citrusy cocktail perfect for warm weather or any time you crave a refreshing drink. Juicy mandarin oranges are muddled with fresh mint, balanced with gin, and topped off with a splash of soda water for a delightful fizz. This cocktail is easy to make and bursting with bright, zesty flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 mandarin oranges (peeled and segmented)
- 2 oz gin
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional, to taste)
- 8–10 fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
- Soda water (to top)
- Mint sprig and mandarin slices (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle the mandarin orange segments and mint leaves together to release the juice and mint oils.
- Add the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice cubes.
- Top with soda water for a light fizz.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and a mandarin slice.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup to suit your taste.
- If mandarins aren’t available, you can substitute with clementines or tangerines.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 5mg