There’s something about the Pomelo cocktail that just screams sunshine. It’s light, citrusy, and just the right amount of sweet and tart. Whether you’re lounging on a patio or hosting friends, this drink is a crowd-pleaser—bright, crisp, and super easy to make. I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and it never fails to impress. Here’s how to make it at home with simple ingredients and a few helpful tips.
Pomelo
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Highball or stemless wine glass
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka (or gin for a more botanical twist)
– 3 oz (90 ml) fresh pomelo juice (or pink grapefruit juice as a backup)
– 1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup (adjust to taste)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice
– Splash of club soda
– Ice cubes
– Pomelo wedge or twist (for garnish)
Equipment
– Cocktail shaker
– Jigger or measuring spoon
– Juicer (manual or electric)
– Strainer (if your shaker doesn’t have one)
– Chilled highball glass
Method
- Fill your shaker halfway with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, fresh pomelo juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake for about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold. This chills the drink and mixes everything evenly.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top with a splash of club soda for a bit of fizz.
- Garnish with a slice or twist of pomelo. A sprig of mint also works beautifully for extra aroma.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh pomelo juice whenever possible. It’s sweeter and less bitter than grapefruit, which gives the cocktail its signature flavor.
– Too sweet? Cut back on the simple syrup or swap it for honey or agave.
– Don’t have pomelo? Pink grapefruit juice is a good stand-in. Just expect a slightly more bitter edge.
– Make ahead: You can mix the juices and syrup a few hours in advance. Store in the fridge and shake with vodka and ice just before serving.
Make It Your Own
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, and over time, I’ve tried a few fun variations:
Spicy Pomelo
– Add a thin slice of fresh jalapeño to the shaker.
– Muddle it before adding the rest of the ingredients for a gentle heat.
Herbal Pomelo
– Toss in a sprig of rosemary or basil.
– Muddle with simple syrup to infuse the drink with fresh herbal notes.
Berry Pomelo
– Muddle a few fresh raspberries or strawberries with the lime juice before shaking.
– Adds a fruity twist and a beautiful pink hue.
Mocktail Version
– Leave out the vodka.
– Add an extra splash of club soda and a touch more lime for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
Grilled Fish
The citrus in the drink cuts through the richness of the fish and brings out its smoky flavor.
Spicy Asian Dishes
Think Thai or Szechuan—Pomelo’s sweetness balances the heat perfectly.
Fresh Garden Salads
Especially those with a citrus vinaigrette or a sprinkle of feta.
Storage Notes
– If you want to prep ahead, mix the pomelo juice, lime juice, and simple syrup and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
– Don’t mix in the alcohol or club soda until ready to serve—this keeps the flavor fresh and the fizz intact.
Helpful Tips
– Salt or sugar rim: Rub a lime wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip into salt or sugar for an extra flavor boost.
– Scaling up for a party? Just multiply the ingredients and mix in a pitcher. Add club soda just before serving so it stays bubbly.
FAQs
Can I use grapefruit instead of pomelo?
Yes! Grapefruit is a bit more bitter, so you may want to adjust the sweetener.
When is pomelo in season?
Pomelos are at their best from late fall through spring—perfect for winter citrus cocktails!
How do I make it less sweet?
Use less simple syrup or switch to a natural sweetener like honey.
What else can I garnish with?
Try edible flowers, mint, or a twist of lime for something a little different.
Can I batch this for guests?
Absolutely. Just multiply the ingredients, shake or stir in a large pitcher, and serve over ice.
Why shake instead of stir?
Shaking chills the drink faster and helps mix the citrus juice thoroughly with the alcohol and syrup. It also adds a slight froth to the top, which looks and feels refreshing.
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Whether you’re mixing one up for yourself or making a batch for friends, the Pomelo cocktail is easy, refreshing, and a little bit special. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite citrus sipper.
