3 BEET HIGH & RISING from the One-Bottle Cocktail

The first time I tasted a cocktail with beets, I was skeptical. Beets were something I associated with earthy salads and borscht, not sophisticated drinks. But one sip of a vibrant pink concoction changed my mind forever. The subtle sweetness, the deep earthy notes, and the surprisingly refreshing character of the beet transformed the cocktail into something truly special and unexpected. It was a revelation, and I’ve been experimenting with beet-infused creations ever since, always chasing that initial moment of surprise and delight. This recipe captures that magic beautifully.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Ingredients: 7
• Yields: 1 drink

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 ounces gin
• 2 drops vanilla extract (be careful, don’t add more!)
• 3⁄4 ounce simple syrup (1 to 1 recipe)
• 1⁄2 ounce beet juice
• 1⁄2 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 1 egg white, or 3/4 ounce aquafaba
• 2 1⁄2 ounces chilled pomegranate soda (such as Izze)

Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker
• Jigger or measuring spoons
• Strainer
• Collins glass (12-ounce)

Instructions

1. Begin by combining the gin, vanilla extract, simple syrup, beet juice, lemon juice, and egg white (or aquafaba) in a cocktail shaker.
2. Dry shake: Seal the shaker and shake vigorously without ice for about 10 seconds. This emulsifies the egg white (or aquafaba), creating a lovely frothy texture.
3. Add ice to the shaker, reseal it, and shake vigorously again until well chilled and very frothy, about 30 seconds. The longer shaking time is crucial for achieving the desired consistency.
4. Double strain the mixture into a chilled 12-ounce Collins glass. This removes any ice shards and ensures a smooth, elegant drink.
5. Allow the foam to settle for a moment, then slowly top off the glass with the chilled pomegranate soda. Pour gently to allow the foam to rise above the rim of the glass.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Vanilla Extract Caution: Be exceedingly careful with the vanilla extract. Two drops is all you need! Too much vanilla can easily overpower the other delicate flavors.
• Chilling is Key: Make sure your Collins glass is thoroughly chilled before pouring the drink. This will help maintain the drink’s cool temperature and preserve its bubbly effervescence. You can chill the glass in the freezer for 15-20 minutes or fill it with ice water while preparing the cocktail.
• Beet Juice Quality: While you can juice your own beets, using a high-quality bottled beet juice like Love Beets is perfectly acceptable and saves a considerable amount of time and effort. Freshly juiced beets will offer a more intense earthy flavor, while bottled beet juice tends to be slightly sweeter. Adjust the simple syrup to your liking based on the sweetness of your beet juice.
• Shake It Like You Mean It: The shaking time is crucial for the texture of this cocktail. Don’t skimp on the 30 seconds with ice. This will properly chill the drink and create a beautifully frothy top.
• Aquafaba Option: For a vegan alternative, aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas) works wonders as an egg white substitute. It provides a similar frothy texture without altering the flavor profile significantly. Use 3/4 ounce of aquafaba for each egg white.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cocktail is best served immediately. The frothy texture and effervescence of the pomegranate soda are at their peak right after preparation. While it’s not recommended to store this cocktail for later, you can pre-chill the gin, beet juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup for faster assembly. The pomegranate soda should be added just before serving to maintain its fizz. Since the drink contains egg white (or aquafaba), it’s best not to leave it out at room temperature for more than an hour or two.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	135 kcal	7%
Total Fat	0.1g	0%
Saturated Fat	0g	0%
Cholesterol	0mg	0%
Sodium	55.9mg	2%
Total Carbohydrate	1.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0g	0%
Sugars	0.7g	2%
Protein	3.6g	7%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gin Alternatives: While gin is the classic choice, you could experiment with other clear spirits like vodka or white rum. These will create a slightly different flavor profile but still allow the beet and pomegranate flavors to shine.
• Soda Swap: If you can’t find pomegranate soda, try using cranberry soda or a mix of sparkling water with a splash of pomegranate juice. You can also use club soda or tonic water, but you may need to adjust the simple syrup to compensate for the lack of sweetness.
• Lemon-Lime Twist: For a slightly different citrus note, try using a combination of lemon and lime juice.
• Spice it Up: Add a dash of cardamom bitters or a pinch of grated ginger to the shaker for a warm, spicy kick.
• Beet Booster: If you really love the earthy beet flavor, consider adding a few drops of beet-infused vodka or gin.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this cocktail without egg white?
A: Absolutely! You can use aquafaba as a vegan substitute, or simply omit it altogether. The cocktail will still taste delicious, but it won’t have the same frothy texture.

Q: What’s the best way to juice beets if I choose to do it myself?
A: The best way to juice beets is with a juicer. If you don’t have one, you can boil or roast the beets until tender, then blend them with a little water and strain through a fine-mesh sieve.

Q: Can I use pre-made simple syrup from the store?
A: Yes, you can use pre-made simple syrup. However, making your own is incredibly easy and allows you to control the sweetness level. To make simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, heat until the sugar dissolves, and let cool.

Q: What does the vanilla extract do in this cocktail?
A: The vanilla extract adds a subtle warmth and depth to the cocktail, complementing the earthy notes of the beet juice and enhancing the other flavors. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much vanilla can be overpowering.

Q: Why is it important to dry shake the cocktail first?
A: The dry shake (shaking without ice) is crucial for emulsifying the egg white (or aquafaba). This creates a stable foam that gives the cocktail its signature frothy texture.

Final Thoughts

This 3 Beet High & Rising cocktail is a delightful adventure for the palate, blending familiar flavors with unexpected twists. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations to find your perfect balance. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a curious beginner, this recipe offers a rewarding and delicious experience. So, gather your ingredients, chill your glass, and prepare to be amazed by the magic that unfolds when gin, beets, and pomegranate come together in perfect harmony. Cheers to exploring new flavors and creating memorable moments!