Bloodhound

Introduction

History

The Bloodhound cocktail is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, though its exact origins are somewhat murky. It is mentioned in cocktail books dating back to the 1930s, suggesting its popularity during the Prohibition era and the years following. The cocktail's name and its association with the Bloodhound breed of dogs remain a topic of speculation, with some suggesting it was named for its ability to "track down" thirst and provide a refreshing solution.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect Bloodhound cocktail, consider the following tips:

- Use high-quality gin and vermouth to ensure the best flavor.

- Chill your cocktail glass in advance to keep the drink cold.

- Shake the ingredients vigorously with ice to chill the cocktail without diluting it too much.

- Crush the strawberries gently to release their juice and aroma without making the drink too pulpy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bloodhound cocktail in a chilled cocktail glass for the best experience. The crushed strawberries not only act as a garnish but also infuse the drink with a subtle fruity flavor that complements the botanical notes of the gin and the sweetness of the vermouth.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique for making a Bloodhound cocktail is shaking the ingredients with ice. This method chills the drink while slightly diluting it, resulting in a smooth, refreshing cocktail.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're missing an ingredient or wish to experiment, consider these substitutions:

- Replace sweet vermouth with a dash of simple syrup for a sweeter drink.

- Use only one type of vermouth if both are not available, adjusting the sweetness to taste.

Make Ahead Tips

While the Bloodhound cocktail is best served fresh, you can prepare the gin and vermouth mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Add the crushed strawberries just before serving to ensure they remain fresh and flavorful.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the cocktail with a whole strawberry on the rim of the glass or a sprig of mint for an added touch of elegance. Serving the drink in a vintage cocktail glass can also enhance its classic appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

The Bloodhound cocktail pairs well with light appetizers, such as cheese platters, fruit skewers, or seafood dishes. Its refreshing quality makes it a great companion to spicy or rich foods, as it helps cleanse the palate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

As a fresh cocktail, the Bloodhound does not require storage or reheating. It is best enjoyed immediately after preparation.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of the Bloodhound cocktail contains approximately 120 calories, making it a moderate choice for calorie-conscious individuals.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of the Bloodhound cocktail contains approximately 4 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the vermouth and the natural sugars in the strawberries.

Fats

The Bloodhound cocktail is virtually fat-free, making it a lighter choice for those monitoring their fat intake.

Proteins

This cocktail contains negligible amounts of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

While not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, the strawberries used for garnish provide a small amount of vitamin C and dietary fiber.

Alergens

The Bloodhound cocktail is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, gluten, and eggs. However, those with sensitivities to alcohol should consume it cautiously.

Summary

Overall, the Bloodhound cocktail is a relatively low-calorie drink with minimal carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It offers a small nutritional benefit from the strawberries but should primarily be enjoyed for its flavor and refreshment qualities.

Summary

The Bloodhound cocktail is a timeless classic that offers a perfect balance of botanical, sweet, and dry flavors, complemented by the freshness of crushed strawberries. Its elegant presentation and refreshing qualities make it an ideal choice for various occasions, from casual gatherings to sophisticated cocktail parties. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Bloodhound. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside with my family. My mother had invited an old friend over for dinner, and she brought with her a bottle of gin and a recipe for a cocktail she called the Bloodhound.

I was intrigued by the name and asked my mother's friend where she had learned to make such a drink. She smiled and told me that she had picked up the recipe during her travels in Europe, where she had spent time learning about different cocktails and spirits.

As she began to mix the ingredients together, I watched in awe as she poured the gin, vermouth, and freshly squeezed grapefruit juice into a shaker filled with ice. She shook it vigorously and then strained the mixture into a chilled glass, garnishing it with a twist of grapefruit peel.

The aroma of the cocktail was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to take my first sip. As I tasted the Bloodhound for the first time, I was amazed by the complex flavors that danced on my tongue. The tartness of the grapefruit juice was balanced perfectly by the herbal notes of the gin and vermouth, creating a drink that was both refreshing and sophisticated.

From that moment on, I was determined to learn how to make the Bloodhound for myself. I asked my mother's friend for the recipe, and she graciously wrote it down for me on a piece of paper. I treasured that recipe and kept it tucked away in my recipe box, waiting for the perfect opportunity to recreate the cocktail.

Over the years, I experimented with the recipe, tweaking the proportions of the ingredients and adding my own personal touch. I discovered that using a high-quality gin and fresh grapefruit juice made all the difference in creating the perfect Bloodhound.

I shared the cocktail with friends and family, who were all impressed by the unique and delicious flavors. They would often ask me where I had learned to make such a drink, and I would proudly tell them the story of how I first discovered the recipe for the Bloodhound.

As time went on, the Bloodhound became a signature cocktail of mine, one that I would often serve at gatherings and special occasions. It never failed to impress, and I loved watching the faces of my guests light up as they took their first sip.

To this day, the Bloodhound remains one of my favorite recipes, a reminder of that fateful day when I first learned how to make the cocktail that would become a beloved tradition in my family. I am grateful to my mother's friend for introducing me to such a delicious and memorable drink, and I will always cherish the story of how the recipe came into my life.

Categories

| British Recipes | Dry Vermouth Drink Recipes | Gin Drink Recipes | Sweet Vermouth Drink Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients