Singapore Sling Recipe and Ingredients

Ingredients

Gin: 30 ml (1 oz.)
Cherry Heering: 15 ml (0.5 oz.)
Bénédictine: 7.5 ml (0.25 oz.)
Fresh lemon juice: 15 ml (0.5 oz.)
Soda water: 60 ml (2 oz.)
Angostura bitters: a dash
Grenadine: a small splash
Pineapple juice: 120 ml (4 oz.)
Fresh pineapple and cherries: for garnish

Easy Recipe

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Step 1: Ice and Spirits
Fill a shaker halfway with ice and add gin, Cherry Heering, Bénédictine, and lemon juice.

Step 2: Add Juices
Mix in pineapple juice and a splash of grenadine for a sweet, tropical flavor.

Step 3: Shake Well
Shake vigorously for 15 seconds to aerate the pineapple juice, creating a frothy texture.

Step 4: Strain and Top Up
Strain into a tall glass (highball or sling) and top up with soda water for a fizzy touch.

Step 5: Bitters and Garnish
Add a dash of Angostura bitters and garnish with pineapple and a cherry.

Enjoy your visually stunning and delicious Singapore Sling, a perfect blend of tropical flavors and fizzy fun!

Pro Mixology Tips

Crafting the perfect Singapore Sling is an art that requires attention to detail and a balanced approach. Here are some professional mixology tips to help you make an exceptional Singapore Sling:

Fresh is Best:
- Always use fresh lemon and pineapple juice. Fresh juices provide a brightness and authenticity of flavors that bottled juices can’t match. This freshness is crucial in highlighting the cocktail’s tropical and citrus notes.
Shake, Don’t Stir:
- A vigorous shake is essential for the Singapore Sling. Shaking aerates the pineapple juice, creating a frothy texture that is visually appealing and enhances the mouthfeel. This technique also ensures that all the ingredients are well-integrated.
Balance is Key:
- The Singapore Sling has a complex mix of ingredients. Achieving the right balance is critical for its signature sweet-tart profile. Be prepared to adjust the quantities to taste. This might involve fine-tuning the sweetness or acidity to get that perfect blend.

Food Pairing

Pairing the right food with a Singapore Sling can elevate this classic cocktail into a complete culinary experience. Here’s a curated list of ten popular pairings that complement its tropical and sweet profile:

Coconut Shrimp: The sweetness of the shrimp and the coconut’s tropical flavor beautifully complement the Singapore Sling.
Mango Salad: A fresh mango salad with a hint of chili adds a tropical and spicy element that matches the cocktail’s flavors.
Hawaiian Poke Bowls: The fresh, raw fish and tropical fruits in poke bowls resonate with the Singapore Sling’s island vibe.
Thai Red Curry: The cocktail’s sweetness balances the heat and complexity of a spicy Thai red curry.
Szechuan Chicken: The bold spices of Szechuan cuisine are nicely offset by the Singapore Sling’s fruity sweetness.
Spicy Tuna Rolls: The spice in the tuna rolls is complemented by the cocktail’s refreshing character.
Summer Rolls: Light and fresh, summer rolls provide a contrast to the Singapore Sling’s richness.
Avocado Toast: The creaminess of avocado toast pairs well with the cocktail’s acidity and fruitiness.
Zesty Ceviche: The citrus in the ceviche echoes the Singapore Sling’s tangy profile.
Fruit Platters: A platter with tropical fruits like pineapple, lychee, or papaya enhances the cocktail’s fruity and tropical notes.

FAQ

What is the Origin of the Singapore Sling Cocktail?

The Singapore Sling was created in the early 20th century at the Raffles Hotel in Singapore, by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon. It’s a tropical cocktail that reflects the lively atmosphere of its time and region.

How Do You Make a Traditional Singapore Sling?

To make a traditional Singapore Sling, mix: Gin, Cherry Heering, Bénédictine, Fresh lemon juice, Soda water, Angostura bitters, Grenadine, and Pineapple juice. Shake the ingredients with ice and strain into a glass. Garnish with a pineapple slice and a cherry.

Which Gin is Best for a Singapore Sling?

Hendrick’s Gin is a popular premium choice for its floral notes. For a budget-friendly option, Beefeater London Dry Gin works well without compromising taste.

Can I Substitute Cherry Heering in a Singapore Sling?

Yes, Cherry Heering can be substituted with Luxardo Cherry Sangue Morlacco or other cherry liqueurs, though Cherry Heering’s unique flavor is key to the classic taste.

Is There a Non-Alcoholic Version of the Singapore Sling?

Yes, a non-alcoholic version, often called a “Singapore Fling,” excludes the alcoholic ingredients and emphasizes the fruity components like pineapple juice, grenadine, and soda.

Why is it Called a ‘Sling’?

The term “sling” in colonial America referred to a spirit-water drink, sweetened and flavored. The Singapore Sling fits this description with its mix of spirits and flavorful ingredients.

What Food Pairs Well with a Singapore Sling?

The Singapore Sling pairs well with tropical or spicy dishes like coconut shrimp, Thai red curry, or mango salad. Its sweet profile helps balance spicier flavors.

Can I Add Other Fruits or Flavors to a Singapore Sling?

Experimenting with different fruits like oranges or lychee can add new dimensions to the Singapore Sling. Just maintain the cocktail’s balance.

What’s the Best Way to Garnish a Singapore Sling?

Traditional garnishes include a slice of pineapple and a cherry. You can also add an orange slice or a sprig of mint for extra aroma and visual appeal.

How Strong is a Singapore Sling?

The strength of a Singapore Sling depends on the ratio of spirits to mixers but is generally considered a moderately strong cocktail.

What Type of Glassware is Ideal for the Singapore Sling?

A tall Collins or highball glass is ideal for serving a Singapore Sling, showcasing its vibrant color and allowing for ample garnishes.

Can I Serve the Singapore Sling on the Rocks?

The Singapore Sling is traditionally served over ice in a tall glass, offering a refreshing and chilled drinking experience.

Are There Any Health Considerations When Drinking a Singapore Sling?

Consume in moderation due to alcohol and sugar content. Be aware of any allergies to the ingredients used.

What Are Some Variations of the Traditional Singapore Sling Recipe?

Variations include using different types of gin or liqueurs, adding fresh fruit juices, or experimenting with other bitters for new flavor twists.

Is There a Specific Time or Occasion Best Suited for a Singapore Sling?

The Singapore Sling is perfect for summer parties, tropical-themed events, or as a refreshing cocktail to enjoy on warm evenings.

Can I Make a Batch of Singapore Slings for a Party?

Mix the gin, Cherry Heering, Bénédictine, lemon juice, grenadine, and pineapple juice in a pitcher. Add soda water and ice just before serving to maintain freshness and fizz.