How to Make a Singapore Sling

How to Make a Singapore Sling: A Simple Guide

Hey there! Ever heard of a Singapore Sling? It's not just a drink; it's a piece of history in a glass! This reddish-pink cocktail is super popular, and I'm going to show you how to make one. It's easier than you think!

A Little History

The Singapore Sling was invented at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore, around 1910. A bartender named Ngiam Tong Boon is usually given the credit. The original recipe was top secret, but we've got a great version for you today.

What You'll Need: Ingredients

First, gather your ingredients. Quality matters, so try to get the best stuff you can find.

• Gin: A London Dry Gin is great. But feel free to experiment!
• Cherry Brandy: Adds sweetness and flavor. Get a good one.
• Bénédictine: A fancy French liqueur. It makes it taste amazing.
• Cointreau (or similar): A good orange liqueur. Cointreau is classic.
• Pineapple Juice: Freshly squeezed is best! Canned juice just won't do.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is a must. Don't use the bottled stuff.
• Grenadine: This gives it the pretty pink color and sweetness.
• Angostura Bitters: A few dashes add a nice kick.
• Angostura Aromatic Bitters (optional): For extra flavor depth.
• Garnish: A cherry and an orange slice are traditional.

Making the Sling: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ready to make your Singapore Sling? Let's go!

1. Chill Your Glass: Pop your highball glass in the fridge or freezer to chill.
2. Mix It Up: In a shaker with ice, combine:
• 1.5 oz Gin
• 0.75 oz Cherry Brandy
• 0.5 oz Bénédictine
• 0.5 oz Cointreau
• 4 oz Pineapple Juice
• 0.75 oz Lime Juice
• 0.25 oz Grenadine
• 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
• (Optional) 1 Dash Angostura Aromatic Bitters
3. Shake it Like You Mean It: Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain and Serve: Strain into your chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish: Add that cherry and orange slice.

Tips for Sling Success

Here are a few tips to make your Singapore Sling even better:

• Fresh is Best: Fresh juices are key!
• Adjust to Your Taste: Too sweet? Add less grenadine. Too tart? Add more lime.
• Gin Experimentation: Try different gins to find your favorite.
• Ice Matters: Use big ice cubes – they melt slower.
• Presentation: Make it look pretty! It tastes better when it looks good.

Fun Variations

Want to get creative? Try these:

• Tropical Sling: Add coconut cream or mango.
• Spicy Sling: Add a dash of chili bitters or a jalapeño slice.
• Raspberry Sling: Use raspberry syrup instead of some of the grenadine.
• Dark & Stormy Sling: Add a shot of dark rum!

The Final Word

The Singapore Sling is amazing. It's a delicious drink with a rich history. Try making one today and impress your friends! Cheers!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen pineapple juice?

A: Fresh is best, but frozen will work in a pinch.

Q: Non-alcoholic version?

A: Absolutely! Use a non-alcoholic gin substitute or just juice.

Q: Prep ahead?

A: You can prep the juices and measure out ingredients ahead of time, keep them refrigerated.

Q: Where to buy ingredients?

A: Most liquor stores will have what you need. Bénédictine might require a bit more searching.

Q: Leftovers?

A: Best enjoyed immediately. It doesn't store well.