The Whole Lemon

It’s not too late to enjoy the last of the winter citrus! You can use every little bit of your lemon from pulp to peel. Make a wonderful bitter-lemon soda for this next spring cocktail creation.

For a savory twist try shaking in a sprig of fresh thyme or tarragon with the gin and bitter lemon before adding the sparkling water. This drink is also delicious with the addition of 1/4 ounce of Green Chartreuse.

Gin with House-made Bitter Lemon and Soda

Makes 1 cocktail.

1 1/2 ounces gin
1 ounce House-made Bitter Lemon (recipe follows)
2 ounces chilled sparkling water

Garnish: lemon wedge and fresh thyme or tarragon

Measure the Martin Miller’s Gin and Bitter Lemon into a mixing glass. Fill glass 3/4 full with ice. Shake vigorously. Add the sparkling water and swirl in mixing tin. Strain into a tall Collins glass filled with fresh ice.  Garnish with lemon and herbs if desired

House-made Bitter Lemon
I like to use my Vitamix blender for its high power to blend the lemon mixture.

Makes 2 1/2 cups

4 large Sunkist lemons
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 cups water

Wash lemons and cut the ends off. Then slice each lemon in half lengthwise and each half into 4 slices. Combine lemons, sugar and water in a blender cup. Process until almost smooth but a few particulates still exist. Place mixture in a medium non-corrosive pan and bring to a boil over medium high heat. Let boil for 1 minute then remove from heat and let steep for 1 hour. Strain through a fine strainer. Store refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.