SalmoncitoCocktail recipe
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The Salmoncito, created by Khristian de la Torre in Mexico City, is a highball cocktail that feels globally inspired yet distinctly Mexican. With London dry gin from England, Campari from Italy, and a splash of grapefruit juice and tonic water, it balances bitterness, citrusy brightness, and effervescence.
Its pink hue and refreshing taste make it a perfect alternative to classics like the Paloma or Margarita.
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Cocktail Colin says:
The Salmoncito is a refreshing jaunt across global flavors, where the assertive bitterness of Campari taps elegantly into the zesty brightness of grapefruit juice, both cushioned by the bubbly embrace of tonic water. London dry gin provides a sturdy backbone with its juniper kick, while the effervescent finish feels like a playful nod to the cocktail’s international roots. Shaken rather than stirred, its vibrant pink hue and balanced dance between bitter, sweet, and citrus make it a charismatic contender alongside the likes of a Paloma, packing sophistication and simplicity into every sip.
Method
How to make a Salmoncito
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- Combine gin, Campari, and grapefruit juice in a highball glass filled with ice
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- Top with tonic water and gently stir
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- Garnish with a supremed grapefruit wedge and express oil from a grapefruit peel over the drink before discarding it
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Find out more- Chill your highball glass in the freezer for at least 10-15 minutes before preparing your Salmoncito. A cold glass will maintain the drink’s refreshing quality and ensure the ice doesn’t melt too quickly, keeping your drink well balanced for longer.
- Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for the most vibrant and authentic citrus flavor. Strain the juice to remove any pulp for a smoother texture that blends harmoniously with the other ingredients.
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FAQ's
What is the origin and history of the Salmoncito cocktail?
The Salmoncito cocktail was created by Khristian de la Torre in Mexico City. It's considered a globally inspired cocktail with a distinctly Mexican touch. It brings together London dry gin from England and Campari from Italy, combined with grapefruit juice and tonic water, to create a refreshing highball that balances bitterness and citrusy brightness. The Salmoncito's pink hue adds to its appeal, making it an intriguing alternative to classic Mexican cocktails like the Paloma or Margarita. Its invention shows the wonderful cross-cultural mix that can happen in a cosmopolitan city like Mexico City, where traditional flavors meet international spirits.
What can be used as a substitute for Campari in the Salmoncito cocktail?
If you're looking to substitute Campari in the Salmoncito, there are a few options you might consider. Campari has a distinctive bitter, herbal flavor that's hard to replicate, but Aperol can be a good alternative as it shares a similar flavor profile albeit less bitter and with a hint of sweetness and lower alcohol content. Another option could be Luxardo Bitter or even creating your own blend with a mix of citrus juice, bitter herbs, and sweeteners to match the complexity of Campari. Remember that each alternative will slightly alter the flavor profile of the Salmoncito, but experimentation can lead to delightful discoveries.
How is the Salmoncito cocktail typically prepared and served?
The Salmoncito cocktail is typically prepared by shaking the ingredients together, as it is described as being 'shaken, not stirred.' This technique allows the ingredients to blend thoroughly, and shaking aerates the mix, giving it a slightly frothy texture that adds to the refreshment factor. After shaking with ice, the cocktail is usually strained into a highball glass filled with fresh ice, then topped with tonic water to provide effervescence. The combination of these techniques helps to bring out the balance of bitterness from the Campari, citrus zestiness from the grapefruit juice, and the botanical complexity of gin, making the Salmoncito a vibrant yet elegantly balanced cocktail.
What occasions is the Salmoncito cocktail best suited for?
The Salmoncito cocktail, with its refreshing and complex flavor profile, is exceptionally versatile for a variety of occasions. However, its light and zesty character make it particularly suited for warm-weather gatherings or outdoor events, such as summer barbecues, picnics, or pool parties. Its sophisticated mix of gin and Campari also makes it a great choice for brunches or early evening aperitifs when you want a drink that's both flavorful and refreshing but not overpowering. Due to its cosmopolitan origins, it can also add an international flair to themed parties or serve as a unique offering at cocktail parties looking to present guests with something distinct yet agreeable.
What types of food pair well with the Salmoncito cocktail?
The Salmoncito's refreshing and slightly bitter profile pairs well with a variety of foods. Its grapefruit juice component makes it a great match for fresh seafood dishes, like ceviche or shrimp cocktail, where the citrus can complement the freshness of the seafood. The herbal notes from the gin and bitterness from the Campari can also pair nicely with grilled meats, providing a contrast to richer flavors. If you're thinking about appetizers, the Salmoncito goes well with light and fresh snacks such as bruschetta or a charcuterie board that includes Prosciutto and aged cheeses, which will balance the cocktail's bright and effervescent qualities.
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