Imagine a salty ocean breeze dancing through your hair, the feeling of cool sand drifting between your toes, a refreshing spray of crisp ocean water…Luckily, you don’t need to travel to some exotic location to harness those beachy vibes. Simply read on for our how-to guide to make the best fresh strawberry daiquiri! Staycation realized.
What is a daiquiri?
A daiquiri is a classic tropical cocktail that generally features white rum, citrus (most often lime), and sweetener (either simple syrup or sugar). It’s traditionally served in a hurricane, martini, or high ball glass. The daiquiri’s generally accepted origin story involves American engineer Jennings Cox, who was working near the East Coast of Cuba in the late 1890s. Allegedly, when expecting guests, Cox ran out of his gin reinforcements and had to make due with the island’s prolific rum supply. He named his new beverage after the nearest town, Daiquiri.
Daiquiris can get a bad rap as a boozy Spring Break cocktail, but we’re here to share our elevated, classic version, no blender necessary.
What You’ll Need
- cocktail shaker (two pieces)
- measuring cup (for liquids)
- citrus juicer
- Chef’s knife
- cutting board
- fine mesh strainer
- fruit & veggie wash
- muddler (or pestle)
- Martini, high ball, or hurricane-style glassware
Ingredients
- 1 oz. white rum (like Bacardi Superior, Brugal Blanco, or Ron Diplomatico Blanco)
- 1/2 oz. fresh-squeezed lime juice (from one lime)
- 1/2 oz. simple syrup
- 5-6 fresh strawberries (Pro tip: strawberries are the freshest between April and June, so that is the optimum time to craft this delicious concoction)
- crushed ice
The Recipe
Before starting, place the serving glassware in the freezer or icebox to chill.
Step #1:
Rinse the fresh fruits in fruit and veggie wash (we recommend Rebel Green Fruit & Veggie Clean, available at Target, Walmart, and local health food stores). Hull the berries (remove the green top).
Step #2:
Cut the lime in half, then manually juice it until there’s ½ oz. of fresh-squeezed liquid. Set aside.
Step #3:
Muddle (crush) the strawberries in the cocktail shaker, until most of the juice has been released, for about 30 seconds.
Step #4:
Add the rum, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill it with crushed ice.
Step #5:
Shake vigorously for approximately 10-15 seconds.
Step #6:
Strain the drink into your chilled glassware of choice.
Step #7:
Optionally garnish with a strawberry fan or slice of lime.
Step # 8:
Enjoy your delicious crafted beverage. ¡Salud!
Please note, to make this a non-alcoholic beverage, simply leave out the rum component for a “mocktail” option.
