Indian-inspired cocktails bring together bold spices, bright citrus, and a touch of sweetness for a drink that’s as exciting as the cuisine itself. This particular recipe is one of my favorites for its balance of warmth and freshness—perfect for summer evenings or whenever you’re craving something a little different. The mix of cardamom, turmeric, and gin creates a drink that’s aromatic, lightly spiced, and incredibly refreshing.
Indian Summer
Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Makes 1 cocktail | Prep time: 5 minutes
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) gin
- 3-4 cardamom pods
- A pinch of turmeric powder
- 0.5 oz (15ml) fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup
- Soda water, to top up
- Ice
For garnish:
- Lime wheel
- A sprinkle of turmeric or a few whole cardamom pods
Glassware:
A highball glass works best, letting the bubbles and aromas develop. If you want a more elegant presentation, a martini glass is a great choice.
How to Make It
- Lightly crush the cardamom pods in a cocktail shaker to release their fragrance. No need to grind them—just press them enough to crack open.
- Add the gin, turmeric, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice and shake well until everything is nicely chilled.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with soda water and gently stir.
- Garnish with a lime wheel and a light sprinkle of turmeric or a few whole cardamom pods.
Tips & Substitutions
- No cardamom? Try a tiny pinch of ground cardamom or swap it for cinnamon or cloves for a different but equally warm spice note.
- Want it sweeter? Add a splash of mango juice for extra fruitiness.
- Prefer vodka? Swap gin for vodka if you want a smoother, less botanical flavor.
- Batch it for a party: Mix everything except the soda in advance and chill. When serving, pour over ice and add soda for the freshest fizz.
Food Pairings
This cocktail pairs beautifully with Indian-inspired appetizers and small bites.
- Spicy starters: The bright, spiced flavors balance out heat from dishes like samosas or tandoori chicken.
- Grilled meats: The drink’s citrus and spice work perfectly with smoky, charred flavors.
- Rich desserts: Try it with gulab jamun or mango kulfi for a lovely contrast between sweet and refreshing.
Variations to Try
Mango Masala Martini
- Ingredients: Gin, mango purée, lime juice, simple syrup, and a pinch of masala spice mix.
- How to make it: Shake everything with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass.
Chai-Infused Old Fashioned
- Ingredients: Bourbon, chai tea syrup, and bitters.
- How to make it: Stir the bourbon with chai syrup and bitters, then serve over ice with an orange twist.
Turmeric Tonic Twist
- Ingredients: Vodka, turmeric tonic, lime juice, and a dash of black pepper.
- How to make it: Pour over ice, stir, and top with black pepper for a hint of spice.
Want a non-alcoholic version? Try a Virgin Indian by mixing cardamom-infused simple syrup with lime juice and topping with ginger ale.
Common Questions
What if I don’t have fresh lime juice?
Bottled lime juice works in a pinch, but fresh juice really makes a difference in brightness.
Can I use honey instead of simple syrup?
Yes! Honey adds a deeper sweetness—just mix it with a little warm water first so it blends smoothly.
How long should I let the spices infuse?
A few minutes is enough to get the flavor without overpowering the drink.
What’s the best garnish?
A lime wheel, fresh mint, or even a sprinkle of turmeric adds a nice finishing touch.
This cocktail is one of my go-to drinks when I want something a little different yet still easy to make. Give it a try, and feel free to tweak it to match your taste!
