This is a party version of the Pimm’s Cup (pages 110 to 112), for when you want to give your guests a break during a three-day cricket match marathon. The difference is you have a few more fresh fruits at your disposal. We find it tastes best if in addition to the cucumber and mint you add strawberries, diced apples, and orange half-wheels. Then again, you can experiment for yourself and play with some seasonal fruits. Maybe some pears will give it your special touch; gin and pears mix really well. When preparing the large-batch cocktail, try to press the fruits and herbs very gently. It’s essential that you mix the large batch several hours ahead—ideally, the night before your guests arrive. Refrigerate it to let the fruits steep and release their essence into the blend.
Recipe information
Yield
makes 2 quarts
Ingredients
Preparation
Put the mint leaves into a large pitcher or smaller punch bowl and gently tap them with a muddler or small ladle to extract the essence. Add the Pimm’s, Cointreau, juice, cucumbers, strawberries, apple, and pear and stir to combine. Cover with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Just before serving, add large cold ice cubes and the ginger ale. Gently stir and serve in individual cups.
