Southside Cocktail Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a drink that’s refreshing and full of flavor, this Southside cocktail recipe is just what you need. With gin, fresh mint, and a splash of citrus, it’s the kind of cocktail that fits any occasion, whether you’re having friends over or just relaxing for the night. This recipe makes it easy to mix up a drink that’s sure to impress.

The Southside cocktail has an interesting history going back to Prohibition. Some say it was a favorite on Chicago’s South Side, while others trace it to New York’s Southside Sportsmen’s Club. Whatever its origin, this classic cocktail has stuck around and is a favorite in bars and at home.

We love serving the Southside at our gatherings. It’s always a hit with its bright and slightly sweet flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through each step from picking the ingredients to easy mixing tips and even a few fun twists to try out. Whether you’re just getting into cocktails or already know your way around a shaker, this Southside cocktail recipe will have you mixing up the perfect drink in no time.

Ingredients Needed for a Southside Cocktail

Let’s make a Southside cocktail. You just need a few simple ingredients to create this refreshing drink. Each ingredient adds something special, so let’s break down why they’re important.

Gin

Gin is the main ingredient here, so choosing a good one really makes a difference. A mid to high-shelf gin works best. If you’re after a bold, classic flavor, go for a London Dry gin with a strong juniper taste. But if you want something a little smoother, Plymouth gin is a great choice with a softer, aromatic touch.

Fresh Mint Leaves

Mint gives the Southside that fresh, cooling flavor. It smells incredible and adds a hint of herbal notes that make the cocktail really stand out. When using mint, try to be gentle with the leaves. Lightly bruising them releases the oils without making them bitter.

Look for vibrant green leaves with a fresh scent. Good mint makes each sip feel crisp and invigorating.

Fresh Lemon Juice (or Lime Juice)

The citrus adds a tangy balance to the drink. Lemon juice is traditional and brings just the right amount of tartness. For a different twist, lime juice gives a brighter, zestier flavor.

Fresh-squeezed juice is always best. It has a lively taste that bottled juice just can’t match and pairs perfectly with the gin’s botanicals.

Simple Syrup

Simple syrup is what ties everything together. It adds a hint of sweetness to balance the tart and herbal notes, making each sip smooth and enjoyable. And it’s easy to make by mixing equal parts sugar and water and heating until the sugar dissolves.

With simple syrup, you get just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the other flavors. It is the perfect final touch for a well-balanced Southside.

How to Make a Southside Cocktail

Ready to mix up a Southside cocktail? It’s an easy and refreshing drink that’s great for any occasion.

First, grab some fresh mint. Press the leaves gently to release the flavor without crushing them too much. This way, you get the nice minty taste without any bitterness.

Next, add the gin, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup to your shaker with ice. Give it a good shake to chill and mix everything together.

When you’re ready to pour, strain the drink to catch any bits of mint. This keeps your cocktail smooth and gives it a nice, clean look.

For the exact amounts and steps, check the recipe card below. Enjoy making this classic and have fun experimenting with it. Cheers!

Southside Cocktail Variations

Here are some fun ways to put a twist on the classic Southside cocktail.

First up, the Southside Fizz. Just add a splash of soda water and pour it over ice for a bubbly, refreshing drink. It’s perfect if you’re in the mood for something light with a bit of sparkle.

Want to deepen the flavor a bit? Try adding a few drops of aromatic bitters. This small addition brings out the gin’s botanical notes and adds a nice complexity to the cocktail.

For an herbal twist, swap out the mint for basil or thyme. Basil adds a sweet, peppery kick, while thyme brings a subtle, earthy flavor. Trying different herbs is a fun way to make the drink your own.

And if you’re looking for something extra refreshing, go for a Frozen Southside. Just blend the ingredients with ice for a slushy version. This one’s perfect for hot days or when you’re just lounging by the pool.

These variations have something for everyone, whether you’re after bubbles, unique herbs, or a cool frozen treat. Have fun experimenting!

More Cocktails to Try

If you loved the Southside, here are some other cocktails you might enjoy.

The Gimlet is a simple mix of gin and lime for a crisp, refreshing flavor. If you’re into the minty taste, try a Mojito with rum, lime, and mint, or a Mint Julep for a bourbon twist. For another gin option, the Tom Collins adds lemon and soda water for a bubbly finish.

For something fresh, try an Eastside Fizz with cucumber, mint, and lime. And for a touch of elegance, go for a French 75 with gin, lemon, and champagne.

Each of these drinks has its own unique twist but keeps that refreshing vibe you liked in the Southside. Hope you find a new favorite! Enjoy!

Other Sour Cocktails to Try

If you’re in the mood to explore more sour cocktails, here are a few recipes you’ll love:

• Gin Sour for a fresh take on gin.
• Mezcal Sour if you’re looking for a smoky twist.
• Vodka Sour for something smooth and simple.
• Rum Sour for a touch of tropical flavor.

Each of these is a fun way to try something new in the sour cocktail family. Enjoy the variety!

FAQs about the Southside Cocktail

What is a Southside made of?

A Southside cocktail is a simple, refreshing blend of gin, fresh mint, lemon or lime juice, and simple syrup. These ingredients work together to create a bright and balanced drink. To make it, we usually muddle mint with citrus, then shake it with gin and simple syrup over ice.

Some people like to mix it up by using vodka instead of gin for a different flavor. Another popular twist is the Southside Fizz, which adds soda water for a bubbly finish.

What’s the difference between a Southside and a Mojito?

The main difference is the base spirit. The Southside uses gin, which gives it a fresh botanical flavor, while the Mojito uses rum for a warmer, slightly sweet taste. Both drinks have mint and citrus, but the Southside typically uses lemon, while the Mojito sticks with lime.

When making a Southside, we strain out the mint for a smooth look, while the Mojito keeps the mint leaves in for a more rustic feel. The Southside is often served “up” in a chilled glass, but it can also be made as a Fizz with soda water.

Why is it called a Southside?

There are two main origin stories for the Southside. One links it to Chicago’s South Side, where people used it to mask the harsh taste of Prohibition-era gin, possibly connected to Al Capone’s gang. Another story credits New York’s 21 Club with making it popular.

Both stories show how the Prohibition era shaped cocktail culture. While the true origin is unclear, the Southside has earned its place as a classic.

What foods pair well with a Southside cocktail?

The citrus and mint flavors in a Southside pair nicely with light dishes. Seafood like shrimp or ceviche and fresh salads bring out the drink’s bright, refreshing taste.

At gatherings, serve it with appetizers or small bites, especially for a summer party or brunch. Mediterranean or Asian dishes with herbs and citrus also make a great match.

Southside Cocktail Recipe

The Southside is a refreshing cocktail that blends gin, fresh citrus, and mint for a bright, crisp flavor. Perfect for relaxing or hosting friends, it’s easy to prepare with just a few ingredients. Here’s how to make a Southside cocktail that will impress with its simplicity and taste.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Cocktails, Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Muddler or Bar Spoon
• Strainer
• Chilled coupe or Nick and Nora glass

Ingredients

  

• 2 oz gin
• 6-8 fresh mint leaves
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice or lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

 

• Put the mint leaves and lemon or lime juice in your shaker. Gently press the mint to release the flavor without crushing it too much.
• Pour in the gin and simple syrup, then stir quickly to combine.
• Add ice to the shaker and shake for about 15 to 20 seconds. This chills the drink and mixes everything together nicely.
• Pour the drink through a strainer into your chilled glass. This keeps it smooth and free of any mint bits.
• Finish by adding a mint sprig on top. To get more aroma, give the mint a quick clap between your hands before placing it in the glass.

Notes

• If you want that classic bold flavor, go for a London Dry gin. But if you’re after something a little smoother and more aromatic, Plymouth gin is a great choice. Just pick whichever you like best.

• When it comes to mint, freshness is key. Look for leaves that are vibrant and green, and skip any that look a bit wilted. Fresh mint will really make your cocktail crisp and aromatic.
• For the citrus, lemon is the traditional choice, but lime can add a fun twist if you’re in the mood to mix it up. Try both and see which one you like better.
• And simple syrup is super easy to make. Just combine equal parts sugar and water and heat it until the sugar dissolves. If you’re in a rush, you can even mix a little powdered sugar with water as a quick fix.

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