I have to admit, this Watermelon Saffron Cooler is about one year in the making. It started with some saffron simple syrup and a need for a sort of sweet and savory cocktail with saffron. And I nailed it. Finally. But finding the right blend that would accentuate the saffron without masking it took awhile. And a lot of ingredients. At one point there was a yellow tomato puree that you’re going to see in a very cool Bloody Mary; I tried out Crème De Violette, and rum, and tonic water… the list goes on. But I’m pleased to report that the Watermelon Saffron Cooler is ready, and well worth the wait. You’d do well to make the watermelon juice and saffron simple syrup ahead of time, while neither is time consuming, it’s nice to have everything ready to go and well-chilled before you’re ready to make the cocktails. And once you make your first batch of watermelon juice, you’re going to want to have it around all Summer long. I buy whole watermelons and juice one half right away. Just about a ¼ cup of the juice is the perfect addition to a glass of ice water. But even if you make the juice just for this Watermelon Saffron Cooler, you’ll be glad you did; it’s just the ticket to quenching everyone’s thirst on a hot and sticky summer night.
- 5 parts watermelon juice
- 2 parts saffron simple syrup
- 1 part gin (I used Tanqueray)
- 2 parts fino sherry (“fino” is important)
- good squeeze of lemon juice (1 teaspoon?)
- 2 parts club soda (the sodium is useful here, but seltzer works fine too)
- lime wheels for garnish
- ice
- If you’re making one, "part" equals tablespoon. If you’re making a pitcher, "part" equals ½ cup.
- Using a food processor or blender, pack it full of pieces of watermelon; rind removed. Blend until very smooth (using either my vitamix, or my food processor I don’t even have to strain it when I’m finished). Pour into a glass jar or pitcher with a lid. Set in the fridge to chill.
- To make the simple syrup: pour 2 cups of sugar and 2 cups of water into a small sauce pan. Add a generous pinch of saffron.
Bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and let cool. Pour into a sealable glass container and chill in the refrigerator. - When you’re ready to make the cocktails, add watermelon juice, saffron simple syrup, gin, sherry, and lemon juice into a glass or pitcher, depending on whether you’re making one or one pitcher. Mix well.
- When you’re ready to serve, pour over ice and top with the soda water. Give it a little stir. Garnish with the lime wheel. I even added some of the saffron on top of the lime wheel for this one.
- And this is a great mocktail. Just nix the gin and sherry and add more soda to taste.
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