Pimm’s and Lemonade – Britain’s favorite
Oh, how I love Pimm’s and lemonade…
Pimm’s has a rather interesting story, by the way. James Pimm was actually a son of a farmer from Kent, England. In 1840 he became an owner of an Oyster Bar in London, where he also served a gin-based drink with quinine, and a secret mix of herbs, as an aid to digestion. The concoction came in a small tankard, known as “No 1 Cup”, which is where the name comes from.
Pimm’s became popular, and by 1859, was being sold outside the restaurant. In 1865, the company got sold to Frederick Sawyer. In 1875, the company got sold again, and Sir Horatio Davis became the new owner. The first Pimm’s bar opened at the Wimbledon tennis tournament in 1971. Through the years, Pimm’s extended their range by using different spirits (like scotch, brandy, rye, vodka, dark rum, tequila) for their “cups” and released 6 more numbers. The most popular product still is Pimm’s No 1.
Enough history. Let’s talk about the cocktail. Pimm’s and lemonade is that one drink you can get anywhere in the UK. English summer and a glass of Pimm’s and lemonade is without a doubt, a British classic. You can find this cocktail at festivals, concerts, sports events, weddings, etc… It’s everywhere all summer and often served in jugs.
For Pimm’s and lemonade, you need…
Ingredients for a glass:
- 2 Ounces (60 ml) of Pimm’s No 1.
- Fresh mint, strawberries, orange, and cucumber.
- Lemonade to top.
Ingredients for a Jug, 1L:
- 6 Ounces (about 200 ml) of Pimm’s No 1.
- Garnishes: Fresh mint, strawberries, orange, and cucumber – but more. 😀
- Lemonade to top.
Preparation is very simple. Cut the strawberries, orange, and cucumber and put them in your glass or jug (you can decide how much you want to put).
Fill the glass or jug with ice and pour Pimm’s No 1. It’s 2 Ounces for a glass and 6 Ounces for a jug.
Top up with lemonade and give it a stir.
Get a handful of fresh mint, give it a slap and leave it inside as the finishing touch.
Enjoy.