The Secret Garden Gimlet:

This week’s Bon Appeteach “Book Club” is looking at the classic novel, The Secret Garden. The cocktail recipe was inspired by this book through both name and the flavors that were incorporated into it. The “garden” theme can be found through notes of cucumber, jalapeno, lavender liquor (floral notes and sweetness), and fresh lime juice. The flavors  really make a well rounded gimlet. Gimlet’s were a popular pre-prohibition era cocktail that is similar to a Gin Rickey (a little more gin though and a lot less lime). Find the full video of how I made this cocktail (and all the others) on my Instagram stories and highlight section. The full recipe for The Secret Garden Gimlet is below! Cheers to the weekend friends!

Garden Gimlet:

• 2 oz. Ford’s Gin
• 3/4 oz. St. Germaine
• 1/2 oz Lime Juice
• 1/2 oz Jalapeno Infused Cucumber Juice
• pinch of salt

Shaken, Not Stirred-

This cocktail is one that I am so proud of. Andrew and I actually worked together (lots and lots of test tasting guys) to come up with a great flavor profile that was perfect for this drink. The first thing to note is the cucumber juice that is is infused with jalapeno. You obviously don’t need a lot (1/2 oz) for this recipe. I cut a few chunks of an English cucumber and tossed it into my Magic Bullet, strained into a jar and set it aside. I cut three little slices of jalapeno (seeds included) and let them soak in the juice for a few minutes (10-15 helps absorb enough flavor but can be adjusted to your liking). If you plan on making a larger batch of this make sure you soak for a lot longer to infuse.

The cocktail itself is easy to build in a cocktail shaker. Pour everything in, add ice, and shake a few times until chilled. Use a gates strainer to pour the cocktail into a coupe or (my preferred) a Nick and Nora style glass. I made a cucumber garnish by using a “y” peeler. Peel a few slices of cucumber and roll. Secure with a toothpick and place across the top of the glass and serve.

Food Pairing-

We always believe in snacks with our drinks here on Bon Appeteach. Because it is fall, I was feeling festive and getting into holiday season. I wanted to continue utilizing fresh vegetables in herbs and focused on utilizing sweet potatoes, onions, rosemary, and bacon. Yes, bacon is obviously a vegetable (insert serious face here…). This appetizer is so easy to make, looks absolutely stunning, and will really be a huge crowd pleaser. Find the full recipe for this Sweet Potato Canapes with Goat Cheese, Bacon, and Caramelized Onions here and make it a staple on your table this season!

Wishing you all another fabulous weekend. Stay warm, stay safe, stay thirsty (so you can make another cocktail of course). Cheers!

Bon Appeteach,

-L