The Ruby Foo Cocktail: A Taste of New York Glamour

My first sip of a Ruby Foo was a revelation. It was at a dimly lit bar in the heart of New York City, somewhere on the Upper West Side. The crimson hue in my glass mirrored the city lights twinkling outside. The delicate balance of fruit and vodka, the slight tartness, and the sweet finish – it was liquid perfection, a cocktail that managed to be both sophisticated and utterly refreshing. It was the kind of drink that made you feel a little more glamorous, a little more connected to the pulse of the city. It was a perfect New York moment.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 2 minutes
• Servings: 1
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 fluid ounces premium vodka (Ruby Foo’s uses VOX)
• 1 1⁄2 fluid ounces plum sake
• 1 fluid ounce cranberry juice
• 1⁄8 – 1⁄4 fluid ounce lemon juice (about 1 teaspoon)
• 1⁄8 – 1⁄4 fluid ounce pineapple juice (about 1 teaspoon)
• 1 thin lemon slice, for garnish

Equipment Needed

• Cocktail shaker
• Ice
• Martini glass
• Jigger or measuring spoons

Instructions

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Pour in 1 1⁄2 fluid ounces of your favorite premium vodka. For an authentic Ruby Foo’s experience, use VOX vodka.
3. Add 1 1⁄2 fluid ounces of plum sake to the shaker. Plum sake adds a subtle sweetness and complex fruit notes that really define this cocktail.
4. Pour in 1 fluid ounce of cranberry juice. Cranberry juice contributes a vibrant color and a touch of tartness.
5. Add 1⁄8 to 1⁄4 fluid ounce (about 1 teaspoon) of lemon juice. The lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds a necessary zing. Start with 1/8 oz and adjust to taste.
6. Add 1⁄8 to 1⁄4 fluid ounce (about 1 teaspoon) of pineapple juice. The pineapple juice adds a touch of tropical sweetness. Again, start with 1/8 oz and adjust to your preference.
7. Shake well until the shaker is thoroughly chilled, about 15-20 seconds. This ensures that the cocktail is perfectly cold and the ingredients are properly combined.
8. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. Straining removes the ice chips and ensures a smooth, elegant drink.
9. Garnish with a thin lemon slice. A lemon wheel or twist adds a final touch of visual appeal and a hint of citrus aroma.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Chill your martini glass before preparing the cocktail. A chilled glass will help keep the drink cold for longer. You can do this by placing the glass in the freezer for a few minutes or filling it with ice while you prepare the cocktail.
• Use high-quality ingredients. The quality of the vodka and sake will significantly impact the final taste of the cocktail. Opt for a premium vodka like VOX, as that is what was traditionally used at Ruby Foo’s. For the plum sake, look for one that is smooth and not overly sweet.
• Adjust the sweetness and tartness to your liking. The recipe calls for a range of lemon and pineapple juice (1/8 to 1/4 fluid ounce). Start with the smaller amount and adjust to taste. If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, add more pineapple juice. If you prefer a tarter cocktail, add more lemon juice.
• Don’t over-shake the cocktail. Over-shaking can dilute the drink and make it watery. Shake just until the shaker is well-chilled, about 15-20 seconds.
• Muddle a few fresh raspberries with the plum sake before adding to the shaker for a more intense fruit flavour.
• Rim the glass with sugar for a sweeter presentation. Moisten the rim with a lemon wedge and dip it into granulated sugar.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

The Ruby Foo cocktail is best served immediately after preparation. It’s designed to be enjoyed fresh and cold. Due to the nature of the ingredients, it’s not recommended to store this cocktail for later consumption. The flavors will degrade, and the drink will lose its crispness. If you want to prepare ahead of time, you can pre-chill the ingredients and have them ready to go when you’re ready to mix.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	177 kcal	9%
Total Fat	0.1 g	0%
Saturated Fat	0 g	0%
Cholesterol	0 mg	0%
Sodium	2.2 mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate	7.8 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	0.2 g	1%
Sugars	4.3 g	–
Protein	0.3 g	0%

Variations & Substitutions

• Vodka: While the original recipe calls for VOX vodka, feel free to use your favorite high-quality vodka.
• Sake: If you can’t find plum sake, you can use regular sake and add a splash of plum liqueur.
• Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon and pineapple juice will always provide the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh juice, use a high-quality store-bought version. You could also experiment with other fruit juices, such as white grape juice, for a different flavor profile.
• Sparkling Ruby Foo: Top the finished cocktail with a splash of Prosecco or sparkling wine for a bubbly, celebratory twist.
• Ruby Foo Mocktail: To make a non-alcoholic version, substitute the vodka with sparkling water and the plum sake with plum juice. Add a dash of rice vinegar to mimic the sake’s subtle tang.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: What is plum sake?
A: Plum sake, also known as umeshu, is a Japanese liqueur made by steeping plums in sake. It has a sweet and tart flavor and is often enjoyed as an aperitif or dessert wine.

Q: Can I use a different type of vodka?
A: Yes, you can use any premium vodka you prefer. However, using VOX vodka will provide the most authentic Ruby Foo experience.

Q: How can I make this cocktail sweeter?
A: If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, add a little more pineapple juice or a dash of simple syrup.

Q: What if I don’t have a cocktail shaker?
A: If you don’t have a cocktail shaker, you can use a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid. Just make sure the lid is secure before shaking!

Q: Can I make a large batch of this cocktail ahead of time?
A: While you can pre-mix the ingredients (except for the ice) and store them in the refrigerator, it’s best to shake and serve the cocktail fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

The Ruby Foo cocktail is a timeless classic, a drink that evokes the glamour and excitement of New York City. It’s a simple yet elegant cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual gathering with friends to a sophisticated dinner party. So, gather your ingredients, channel your inner bartender, and give this delightful drink a try. Let me know what you think! I would love to see your creations, so feel free to share your photos and comments. Perhaps pair it with some delicious sushi or Asian-inspired appetizers for a truly memorable experience. Cheers!