A Grounded Embiggening is the kind of cocktail that turns an ordinary evening into something special. It’s refreshing, a little zesty, and just sweet enough to keep you coming back for another sip. I’ve made this drink countless times, and every single time, it’s been a hit—whether it’s for a backyard hangout or a cozy night in. Plus, it’s one of those cocktails that’s easy to tweak, so you can make it your own. Let’s get started!
Grounded Embiggening
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make one Grounded Embiggening:
- 2 oz (60ml) vodka
- 1 oz (30ml) elderflower liqueur
- 0.5 oz (15ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved)
- A splash of club soda
- Fresh mint leaves (about 4-5, plus extra for garnish)
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a lid if you don’t have one)
- Strainer
- Chilled coupe or highball glass (pop it in the freezer for a few minutes beforehand!)
Prep Time
- 5 minutes
Servings
- Makes 1 cocktail
Method
- Lightly muddle the mint leaves in your cocktail shaker. This step releases their fresh, minty aroma without making them bitter. Be gentle—you’re not smashing them into oblivion!
- Add the vodka, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice, then shake it like you mean it for about 15 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready when the shaker feels super cold in your hands.
- Strain the mix into your chilled glass.
- Top with a splash of club soda for that refreshing fizz.
- Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. Give it a little clap between your hands first to wake up the aroma—trust me, it makes a difference.
Tips & Tricks
- Always use fresh lemon juice. Bottled stuff just doesn’t have the same zing. Roll the lemon on the counter before cutting to get the most juice out of it.
- If you don’t have simple syrup ready, no problem! Just stir equal parts sugar and hot water until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using.
- Want to impress your guests? Add a fancy garnish like a lemon twist or a skewer of berries.
Make-Ahead Notes
You can mix the vodka, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Just add the club soda and mint garnish right before serving to keep things fresh and bubbly.
Substitutions
- No vodka? Botanical gin works beautifully for a more herbal flavor.
- Elderflower liqueur not your thing? Swap it out for Aperol to give the drink a bittersweet edge.
- Watching your sugar? Use honey or agave syrup in place of simple syrup, or go sugar-free with stevia.
- No club soda? Tonic water adds a slightly bitter twist, while sparkling water keeps it neutral.
Food Pairings
The Grounded Embiggening pairs wonderfully with light, summery dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: The citrusy notes in the cocktail play perfectly with smoky, charred chicken.
- Summer Salads: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette mirrors the cocktail’s refreshing vibe.
- Fruit Tarts: Sweet and tart desserts like lemon or berry tarts make for a delightful, complementary treat.
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Try one of these twists:
Spicy Embiggening
- Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker with the mint for a subtle kick.
Berry Embiggening
- Toss a handful of fresh mixed berries into the shaker. Muddle them with the mint for a fruity twist.
Autumn Embiggening
- Replace the lemon juice with apple cider and add a dash of cinnamon for cozy, fall vibes. Garnish with an apple slice.
Virgin Grounded Embiggening
- Skip the vodka and elderflower liqueur. Use elderflower cordial and add extra club soda for a refreshing, non-alcoholic version.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail is perfect for brunch, happy hour, or even a lazy Sunday afternoon. Serve it alongside light appetizers or as a pre-dinner drink to set the tone for the evening.
Bartender Advice
- Chill your glass before serving to keep your drink nice and cool.
- Experiment with different brands of elderflower liqueur—each one has its own unique flavor.
- Don’t skip the garnish! It’s not just for looks; the mint’s aroma enhances the overall experience.
Q&A
Can I use a different sweetener?
Absolutely! Try stevia, monk fruit, or even maple syrup for a unique twist.
What if I don’t have a shaker?
No shaker? No problem. A mason jar with a lid works just as well. Just make sure it’s sealed tight before shaking.
Can I grow my own mint?
Yes! Mint is super easy to grow and thrives in a pot on a sunny windowsill or patio. Fresh mint at your fingertips is a game-changer.
How do I make my drink look Instagram-ready?
Focus on garnishes! A sprig of mint, a lemon twist, or even a skewer of berries can make your cocktail picture-perfect.
The Grounded Embiggening is a cocktail that’s as fun to make as it is to drink. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, you’re in for a treat. Cheers!
