Thai Basil Smash

Gin · Rocks

Gin, Thai basil, fresh lime, and palm sugar smashed hard — the aromatic Thai basil has a licorice-anise note that transforms the Hamburg classic into something Bangkok-street-stall.

GlassRocks
GarnishNone
ABV18%
Categoryinternational
Flavorherbal, aromatic, thai, modern

Ingredients

  • Gin2 oz
  • Thai Basil Leaves10 leaves
  • Fresh Lime Juice0.75 oz
  • Palm-Sugar Syrup0.5 oz
  • Thai Basil Sprig1 piece

Method

  1. Gently slap Thai basil leaves and drop into shaker
  2. Add gin, lime juice, palm-sugar syrup
  3. Fill with ice, shake hard
  4. Double strain into rocks glass over fresh ice
  5. Garnish with a whole Thai basil sprig

Pro Tips

  • Thai basil has a licorice edge that sweet basil doesn't — don't substitute; it changes the drink entirely.
  • Gently slap the leaves before muddling — releases oils without bruising the texture.
  • Palm sugar (not regular) gives a caramel roundness that plain sugar can't.