A mocktail that combines sweet strawberry with the exotic acidity of passion fruit and gains a sprightly depth through Bitter Lemon. Perfect for hot days or as an alcohol-free alternative to fruity sours. The combination of syrup, nectar, and citrus makes it juicy but not sticky – just the right amount of refreshment.
And this is what you need for the Cool Strawberry – alcohol-free
2 cl strawberry syrup (homemade or store-bought, but without artificial flavours)
1 cl freshly squeezed lemon juice (no bottled juice – the acidity needs to be sharp)
8 cl passion fruit nectar (must be cloudy, otherwise the fruit pulp is missing)
10 cl Bitter Lemon (cold, straight from the fridge)
Garnish: 1 fresh strawberry (sliced, with calyx)
This is what matters
The trick lies in the timing of the lemon juice: add it *before* the passion fruit nectar to the glass so that it combines with the syrup before the acidity of the passion fruit joins in. This creates a stable base that doesn’t lose its flavour after just two sips. And: *do not* use crushed ice – the large cubes keep the temperature longer without diluting the drink. If you want it even more intense, freeze strawberry pieces into the ice cubes beforehand.
Variations
- Cool Strawberry Ginger — Replace 2 cl Bitter Lemon with 2 cl ginger syrup and garnish with a thin slice of fresh ginger. Gives the mocktail a spicy note that balances the sweetness of the strawberry.
- Cool Strawberry Basil — Add 3 fresh basil leaves – lightly muddle with the syrup and lemon juice in the glass before adding the nectar and Bitter Lemon. Perfectly suits summer temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the strawberry syrup myself?
Yes, and it’s worth it. Blend 250 g fresh strawberries with 150 g sugar and 100 ml water, let the mixture steep for 30 minutes, then strain through a fine cloth. The syrup keeps in the fridge for about a week. Tip: Add a bit of lemon zest while cooking for more aroma.
Why does my drink taste watery after two minutes?
Either you’re using ice cubes that are too small, or the glass wasn’t pre-chilled. Fill the glass with ice briefly before mixing, then discard the ice and add the ingredients. This keeps the temperature stable.
Can I use tonic water instead of Bitter Lemon?
Theoretically yes, but the taste changes significantly. Bitter Lemon has a herbaceous-fruity note that harmonises with the passion fruit. Tonic water is sweeter and less complex – try it out, but expect a different drink.
