Check out this classic Rum Sour recipe! A harmonious blend of rum, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
Prep time: 1 minute minute
Mixing time: 1 minute minute
- 2 oz Rum
- ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice or cherry - for garnish, optional
Cocktail Shaker
Measuring Jigger
Strainer
Rocks Glass
Chill the Glass: Start by filling your rocks glass with ice cubes or placing it in the freezer to chill.
Mix Ingredients: In the cocktail shaker, combine ½ oz simple syrup, ¾ oz fresh lemon juice, and 2 oz Rum.
Shake It Up: Add ice cubes to the shaker, seal it, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
Pour: Strain the cocktail into your chilled rocks glass over fresh ice.
Garnish: Garnish with a lemon slice or cherry, if desired.
Substitutes:
- Rum: If you run out of rum, a good alternative is bourbon. When I've tried it, the flavor becomes bolder and more oak-forward, giving a twist to the classic.
- Lemon Juice: In the absence of lemons, limes work decently. The result is a bit more tart and vibrant. I sometimes prefer it, especially on a hot day.
- Simple Syrup: Agave nectar or honey can be used instead. The sweetness profile changes slightly, with honey giving a more floral note and agave offering a smoother sweetness.
Making a Pitcher:
- Scale: For a pitcher serving 8, multiply the ingredients by 8: 16 oz of rum, 6 oz of lemon juice, and 4 oz of simple syrup.
- Mix: Combine the rum, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a large pitcher. Stir well.
- Serve: Pour into ice-filled rocks glasses, garnish as desired, and serve immediately.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Rum Substitute: Swap rum with a non-alcoholic rum alternative, which you can find in specialty shops.
- Follow the Steps: Use the non-alcoholic rum instead of regular rum and proceed with the original steps for a delightful non-alcoholic version.
Making it Vegan:
If using honey as a substitute for simple syrup, remember that traditional honey isn't vegan. Opt for agave nectar or maple syrup to keep your Rum Sour 100% vegan-friendly. Both offer unique flavor nuances that I've come to appreciate in various cocktails.