Blackberry Basil Mocktail
This blackberry basil mocktail may be lacking alcohol but it does not lack flavor! The combination of blackberry, basil and lime sparkling water make a tart and sweet drink great for any party or to have at home without the hangover.
One of the ways I find inspiration is to actually go out to restaurants in town and try new things to eat.
On a recent trip to a popular Italian restaurant downtown, I decided to order from the mocktail list. This was unusual for me because I hate “wasting” money on drinks that don’t contain alcohol but the joke is seriously on me because I am 3 months pregnant right now, all I want is a beer and all I can drink are mocktails. I love having mocktails for holidays like Thanksgiving Punch, Christmas Punch or even just a good Sangria Mocktail.
I had a blackberry basil mocktail that was SO GOOD. I love when fruit is mixed with basil. Basil is like the perfect herb to pair with sweet things because it’s naturally sweet itself. I had to recreate this mocktail at home and I am so glad I did because I cannot wait to drink this gem in the summer when I am super pregnant and need something cold and refreshing to help me realize that summer in Charleston does have some perks …. maybe.
🌿How to make a Blackberry Basil Mocktail
- The first thing you need to do is make a blackberry basil syrup. The recipe below will only make 2 mocktails, so if you want more, double the recipe as necessary and continue.
- To make blackberry basil syrup you will need a mortar and pestle to crush up or muddle the blackberry, basil leaves and sugar until it forms almost like a jelly like paste.
- Once you get your paste, use an almond milk bag or some cheese cloth to strain out the seeds into a container to get your syrup.
- Divide the syrup into 2 glasses, add lime or plain flavored sparkling water, add ice and some basil blackberry garnish and you’re good to go!
👩🏻🍳Chef’s Tips
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Make sure you’re using the freshest blackberries and basil leaves for the most vibrant flavors. If possible, pick basil right before use and select ripe blackberries for a naturally sweet and juicy flavor.
- Muddle Carefully: When muddling the blackberries and basil leaves, do it gently to release their natural oils and juices without overly crushing them, preventing bitterness.
- Chill All Components: Chill your club soda and serving glasses beforehand to keep the mocktail refreshing. For an extra cooling touch, you pre-chill the simple syrup.
- Customize the Sweetness: This recipe calls for granulated sugar. You can leave out the sugar completely. I really DON’T recommend this though since blackberries aren’t incredibly sweet by nature and won’t make this mocktail sweet. However it is up to you! If you are on whole30 or keto, feel free to leave it out or use an alternative sweetener.
- Experiment with Garnishes: Add extra basil leaves, blackberries, or a slice of lime for garnish to enhance both flavor and presentation. Alternatively, edible flowers can add a pop of color and a delicate aroma.
- Create a Mocktail Base: If serving a crowd, consider making a larger batch of the muddled blackberry and basil mixture in advance. This way, you can quickly assemble multiple mocktails when guests arrive.
- Flavor Variations: Incorporate additional herbs like mint or thyme for a different flavor profile. You can also add a splash of lemon juice or swap club soda for tonic water for extra complexity.
❔FAQ
Yes, you can use frozen blackberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Let them thaw slightly before muddling to ensure they blend well with the basil and simple syrup.
You can substitute the simple syrup with honey or agave syrup for a more natural sweetener. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste since these sweeteners are more potent.
You can muddle the blackberry and basil mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and add club soda just before serving.
Add a shot of gin or vodka to the glass before topping with club soda. Adjust the amount to your taste preference while keeping the overall flavor balanced.
Blackberry Basil Mocktail
Ingredients
- 8 blackberries
- 3 Fresh Basil Leaves
- 20 oz Lime Sparkling Water or plain
- 3 tbsp Granulated Sugar
Equipment
Instructions
- Crush the blackberries, basil and granulated sugar until a jelly-like paste is formed to make a blackberry basil syrup in the mortar and pestle.
- Over a small bowl or container, strain the syrup through a nut milk bag or cheese cloth making sure no seeds fall through.
- Divide the syrup into the bottom of 2 glasses.
- Add 8-10oz sparkling water or of choice and give it a quick stir to incorporate syrup.
- Add ice and garnish with fresh blackberries and basil.
