The Pink Lady is a classic cocktail with a smooth, frothy texture and a delightful pink hue that comes from its unique combination of ingredients. It’s a gin-based drink that includes grenadine for sweetness and color, egg white for a silky froth, and sometimes applejack or lemon juice to add depth and tartness. This cocktail dates back to the early 20th century and has a sophisticated, elegant vibe, making it perfect for special occasions or as a chic drink to enjoy at home.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 ounces gin: The base spirit of the cocktail, providing a botanical depth.
1/2 ounce applejack (optional): Adds a hint of apple flavor. Some variations of the recipe omit this ingredient.
3/4 ounce lemon juice: For a fresh, citrusy tang.
1 egg white: Creates the signature frothy texture.
2 teaspoons grenadine: Gives the cocktail its distinctive pink color and sweetness.
Ice: For chilling the drink.
Maraschino cherry or a twist of lemon peel (for garnish): Adds a final touch to the presentation.
Instructions:
Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, combine the gin, applejack (if using), lemon juice, egg white, and grenadine.
Dry Shake: First, shake the mixture without ice vigorously. This step is essential for emulsifying the egg white, which creates the frothy texture.
Add Ice and Shake Again: Add ice to the shaker and shake again vigorously. This second shake chills the cocktail and enhances the froth.
Strain: Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or martini glass. The fine strainer helps ensure a smooth texture by removing any ice shards or egg residue.
Garnish: Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a twist of lemon peel on the rim of the glass.
Tips:
Egg White Safety: If you’re concerned about using raw egg whites, you can use pasteurized egg whites from a carton.
Vegan Version: For a vegan-friendly version, aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) can be used as a substitute for egg white. Use about 1 ounce of aquafaba.
The Pink Lady is not just visually appealing but also offers a harmonious blend of flavors. Its light, creamy texture and balanced taste make it a favorite among classic cocktail enthusiasts. Enjoy your delightful Pink Lady cocktail!
