There’s something unforgettable about the bold, peppery bite of Thai basil. It’s one of those herbs that instantly elevates anything it touches. The first time I made a Thai basil gimlet, it was on a sticky summer evening after a long day wrangling the kids and pulling together dinner on a shoestring budget. The regular basil had wilted in the heat, but I had a full bunch of Thai basil left from a stir-fry earlier that week. I thought, “Why not try it in a cocktail?” That experiment turned into a go-to treat I now share at nearly every backyard hangout.
If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, budget-friendly tricks, and classic cocktails with a twist, this Thai basil gimlet might just be your new favorite. In this post, we’ll dive into what makes it special, how to make it at home without fancy tools, and tips for getting the most out of your Thai basil haul. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or just winding down after a long day, you’ll love how easy this is.
Thai Basil Gimlet
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add Thai basil leaves, gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker or mason jar.
- Gently muddle the basil to release its oils.
- Add a handful of ice and shake well for 10–15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
- Garnish with a Thai basil sprig and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
- Vodka is a good substitute for gin if you prefer a smoother, neutral flavor.
- To batch for parties, mix the gin, lime, and syrup ahead of time; muddle basil fresh in each glass for best flavor.
- Pairs well with light appetizers like veggie chips, shrimp skewers, or creamy spreads.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Table of Contents
Thai Basil Gimlet Basics
A flavorful spin on a timeless drink
What is a basil gimlet, and how does Thai basil change the game?
A traditional gimlet is a simple mix of gin and lime juice—fresh, tangy, and crisp. When you use Thai basil instead of just lime, it adds this slightly spicy, anise-like note that takes the cocktail up a notch. The aroma is incredible, and it feels more refined even though it’s still just a few pantry basics coming together.
The beauty of a gimlet is in its simplicity. You only need four ingredients: Thai basil, lime juice, gin, and simple syrup. No shaking drama or fancy infusions—just a quick muddle or shake with ice and strain. It’s approachable but tastes elevated, making it a favorite for casual get-togethers and weekend wind-downs.
Is Thai basil stronger than regular basil?
It is—and in a good way. Thai basil is bolder, with a peppery, licorice-like flavor that stands up well in drinks. It won’t wilt into the background like sweet basil sometimes does. That makes it ideal for cocktails where you want the herb to do more than just sit pretty on top.
Its structure also makes it practical. The sturdy leaves don’t bruise as easily, and a little goes a long way. Pair it with something light and neutral like cottage cheese bagels for a brunch-style spread that keeps things budget-friendly and satisfying.
How to Make a Thai Basil Gimlet at Home
No fancy tools needed, just bold flavor
Ingredients First, Always
Here’s what you’ll need to make one crisp and herb-packed Thai basil gimlet.
Ingredients
- 6 Thai basil leaves (plus a sprig for garnish)
- 2 oz gin (or substitute vodka if preferred)
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Ice (for shaking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, here’s how to bring this cocktail together in just minutes.
Instructions
- Add the Thai basil leaves to a shaker or a mason jar.
- Pour in the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Lightly muddle the basil to release its oils—don’t mash it too hard or it’ll taste bitter.
- Add a handful of ice and shake well for 10–15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
- Garnish with a basil sprig and serve immediately.
Want a variation with a cooling twist? This cucumber basil gimlet offers a lighter, garden-fresh version that’s just as easy to shake up.
Thai Basil Beyond the Glass
No waste, just smart flavor
What to Do With Extra Thai Basil
If you’ve got a bunch of Thai basil leftover after mixing your gimlet, don’t let it wilt in the fridge. This herb is too flavorful (and too pricey to waste) to toss out.
Smart Ways to Use Leftover Thai Basil
- Make a Thai basil pesto using garlic, peanuts, and a splash of lime—great on noodles or rice bowls.
- Add it to stir-fries toward the end of cooking for a fresh, peppery kick.
- Steep it in hot water for a quick herbal tea that’s calming and helps digestion.
- Toss it into salads with cucumbers, carrots, and a rice vinegar dressing for a fast Thai-inspired slaw.
One of my go-to dishes after cocktail hour is this one pot chicken and rice with caramelized lemon—a cozy, tangy meal that plays nicely with the herbaceous notes of the gimlet. Sprinkle chopped Thai basil over it before serving for a bright finish.
Hosting With Thai Basil Gimlets
If you’re making these gimlets for a crowd, prep is your best friend. You can pre-mix the gin, lime, and syrup in a pitcher and add muddled basil to each glass individually. This keeps the flavor fresh without making you play bartender all night.
Perfect Pairings for Your Thai Basil Gimlet
- Light appetizers like shrimp skewers, spring rolls, or veggie chips
- Something cheesy or creamy, like a spread served with toasted bread or these cottage cheese bagels
- Fruit-based desserts like mango slices or lime bars, which mirror the citrus notes in the drink
Cocktails don’t need to be reserved for special occasions. With just a few ingredients, this Thai basil gimlet brings fun, freshness, and just enough flair to feel like you’ve treated yourself, without blowing your grocery budget.
FAQs & Final Thoughts on Thai Basil Gimlets
What is a basil gimlet?
A basil gimlet is a twist on the classic gin gimlet, which traditionally includes gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. When you add basil—especially Thai basil—you get a bright, herbal cocktail with a peppery edge that makes it feel fresher and more unique.
What to do with a bunch of Thai basil?
Besides making this cocktail, Thai basil can go into stir-fries, homemade pestos, Vietnamese pho, rice bowls, or even herbal teas. It holds up well to heat and pairs beautifully with citrus and spicy ingredients.
What is a gimlet made of?
A classic gimlet is made with three simple ingredients: gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup. It’s sharp, refreshing, and easy to customize. In this version, Thai basil gives the drink more depth and aroma without complicating the recipe.
Is Thai basil stronger than regular basil?
Yes—Thai basil has a spicier, more intense flavor than sweet basil. It also has a firmer texture, making it ideal for drinks and hot dishes alike. That bold flavor stands up to spirits like gin, which is why it works so well in cocktails like this.
Final Sip: Why You’ll Love Thai Basil Gimlet
The Thai basil gimlet is proof that a good cocktail doesn’t need expensive ingredients or bar tools. It’s flavorful, fast, and flexible. Whether you’ve got leftover herbs, a dinner party coming up, or just want something fresh to sip while the kids finish homework, this drink fits the bill.
Keep some Thai basil in your fridge or garden, and you’ll never be more than five minutes from a better evening.
If you enjoyed this recipe and want more budget-friendly ideas with flavor that surprises, follow along on Pinterest for quick inspiration, or join our growing kitchen-loving community on Facebook where we share tips, swaps, and family-friendly favorites daily.
