Rhubarb and ginger make a zesty combo in this refreshing cocktail. The tart rhubarb balances nicely with spicy ginger and smooth spirits.
This easy recipe creates a cool drink perfect for warm summer days.
The cocktail has a pretty pink hue from the rhubarb. Its flavor is bright and tangy with a ginger kick. The alcohol gives it a grown-up twist, but you can leave it out for a tasty non-alcoholic version too.
Try this rhubarb ginger cooler at your next backyard BBQ or pool party. It’s sure to be a hit with guests looking for something different from the usual drinks. The recipe makes enough to serve a small group.
Rhubarb Ginger Cooler Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cocktail shaker
- Ice cube tray
- Tall glasses
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make 4 servings:
- 2 cups chopped rhubarb
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2- inch piece of fresh ginger peeled and sliced
- 1 cup vodka
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
- Club soda
- Ice cubes
- Rhubarb stalks or lime wedges for garnish optional
Feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste. For a non-alcoholic version, simply leave out the vodka and add more club soda.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Rhubarb Ginger Cooler:
- In a saucepan, mix rhubarb, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add ginger slices and cook for 5 more minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing on solids to extract all liquid.
- Chill the syrup in the fridge for at least an hour.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 cup of the rhubarb-ginger syrup, vodka, and lime juice.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15 seconds.
- Strain into ice-filled glasses.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a rhubarb stalk or lime wedge if desired.
Notes
Tasting Notes
This Rhubarb Ginger Cooler Cocktail has a bright and refreshing taste. The rhubarb brings a tart, fruity flavor that balances well with the spicy kick of ginger.
The drink has a light pink color and a smooth texture. It’s not too sweet, making it perfect for warm summer days. The carbonation adds a pleasant fizzy feel.
Here are the main flavor notes:
- Tart rhubarb
- Spicy ginger
- Light sweetness
- Citrus hints
The cocktail is crisp and zesty on the palate. Its flavors are bold but not overpowering. The ginger provides a gentle warmth that lingers after each sip.
This drink pairs well with light appetizers or grilled foods. It’s best served very cold over ice. The flavors become more pronounced as the ice melts slightly.
Substitute
If rhubarb is not available, try using tart berries or cherries instead. You can also use strawberries or raspberries. These fruits add a similar tangy flavor to the drink.
For a non-alcoholic version, skip the vodka and use extra ginger beer or soda water. This creates a refreshing mocktail that everyone can enjoy.
No fresh ginger? Use 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger per tablespoon of fresh ginger called for in the recipe. Ground ginger has a stronger taste, so use it sparingly.
Can’t find ginger beer? Mix ginger ale with a splash of lime juice for a similar fizzy kick. You can also use regular lemon-lime soda.
Out of simple syrup? Mix equal parts sugar and hot water until dissolved. Then, let it cool before using in the cocktail. Honey or agave nectar are good alternatives too.
Don’t have a cocktail shaker? Use a jar with a tight-fitting lid to mix the ingredients. Shake well and strain into glasses.