Southeastside

The Southeastside is my own riff on the refreshing Eastside cocktail (a popular Gimlet variation) where the mint has been swapped out for Thai basil.  Beyond its contribution to a dramatic garnish presentation, Thai basil provides herbaceous, licorice-like aromatics to the libation.  One of the challenges you might encounter is actually finding Thai basil… it is not likely to be conveniently stocked at your local grocery store, but it is a staple in many Asian markets.  Like the Eastside, another important ingredient is cucumber, which you will muddle together with the Thai basil in your shaker tin — this combination of flavor is, dare I say, even more refreshing than the original.  When it comes to serving the Southeastside, I prefer to shake this cocktail and serve it “on the rocks” and garnished with a bouquet of Thai basil and a cucumber slice.  However, if you opt for a traditional “up” aesthetic, you can always gently float a small Thai basil leaf across the top of the libation.  But don’t take my word for it, make one and try it for yourself!

Southeastside

In your shaker, muddle the Thai basil and cucumber slices and combine the simple syrup, lime juice, and gin.

• 8 leaves of Thai Basil

• 4 slices of Cucumber

• 0.75 oz of Simple Syrup

• 1 oz of Lime Juice

• 2 oz of Gin

Add ice to your shaker and shake until it develops a frost.  Double-strain the contents (by pouring them from the shaker through a fine mesh strainer) into your rocks glass with ice.  Garnish with a bouquet of Thai basil and a cucumber slice.