Lemongrass Gin Fizz with Mint

We invited you to join us for a week-long Asian feast on Monday, and with a taste of our Spicy Vegan Lettuce Wraps on Tuesday and Ramen on Wednesday, we know you must be thirsty!  I think by now you’ll agree that homemade is always, always better than takeout when it comes to Asian, and this week’s recipes have proven they’re not as complicated as they may seem either.  So in order to celebrate a few new favorite recipes that make me want to say bye to takeout forever (well not forever, but at least for a week or so), I wanted to also mix up a festive and fizzy sip. 

When thinking about a good Asian cocktail that we’d really enjoy at the Rye household (and want more than one!), I immediately thought of something with lemongrass.  Lemongrass has always been associated with western cuisine, and it is incredibly aromatic.  It’s the perfect base for a flavored drink that’s crisp, refreshing, but won’t overpower my Asian dinner.  By adding the sweetness of the fresh mint I was able to balance out the tangy notes of fresh lemongrass and slightly bitter notes of the fresh lime.  It also serves as a great garnish (and swizzle stick!) in the tumbler glasses. And don’t be overwhelmed.  Fresh lemongrass is a bit difficult to find, but when you do (I found mine at Whole Foods) don’t be intimidated.  Simply use your vegetable peeler and run it down the lemongrass stick to create the shards of lemongrass you see here.  Easy breezy.

As you probably have noticed by now, I typically always gravitate towards gin cocktails (a gin & tonic was my first signature drink order) and anything with a little fizz (here and here).  But it’s all for good reason…they’re just so refreshing and clean.  I’m thrilled to add this Lemongrass Gin Fizz Cocktail with Mint to my entertaining arsenal, especially when those lettuce wrap and ramen cravings hit!  Truly, MKR