Discover below five of the most popular mocktails and their recipes.
Summary
1. Virgin Mojito
Inspired by the traditional Cuban mojito, the Virgin Mojito retains the cocktail’s refreshing and bubbly nature, without the alcohol. Famous for its thirst-quenching quality, it is highly popular in bars and restaurants across France.
Original recipe (for 1 glass)
- 6 to 8 fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 lime (cut into wedges)
- 2 teaspoons of cane sugar or 2 cl of sugar syrup
- Sparkling water or lemonade
- Ice cubes
Preparation
- Place the lime wedges and sugar at the bottom of a glass.
- Gently crush with a muddler to release the juice.
- Add the mint leaves, without over-crushing them to avoid bitterness.
- Fill the glass with ice, then pour in the sparkling water or lemonade.
- Stir gently and serve well chilled.
2. Virgin Mary
A non-alcoholic variation of the Bloody Mary, the Virgin Mary has won over the French public thanks to its spicy character and versatility. It’s the ideal alternative for those who want to enjoy the unique taste of a Bloody Mary without the effect of vodka.
Original recipe (for 1 glass)
- 12 cl tomato juice
- 1 cl fresh lemon juice
- A few drops of Worcestershire sauce
- A dash of Tabasco (depending on your spice tolerance)
- Salt and pepper
- Ice cubes
Preparation
- In a glass, pour the tomato juice and lemon juice.
- Season with Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, salt, and pepper.
- Add ice cubes, stir well, and taste to adjust seasoning.
- Garnish with a celery stalk or cucumber stick.
3. Shirley Temple
Created in honor of the young American actress Shirley Temple, this mocktail made with ginger ale (or lemonade) and grenadine is a long-standing classic. In France, it’s appreciated for its sweetness and sparkle, making it a festive beverage.
Original recipe (for 1 glass)
- 10 cl of ginger ale or lemonade
- 2 cl of grenadine
- 1 cl of lime juice (optional)
- Ice cubes
- 1 maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)
Preparation
- In a glass filled with ice, pour the grenadine.
- Add the ginger ale or lemonade.
- If desired, add a dash of lime juice for extra flavor.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and serve immediately.
4. Virgin Piña Colada
Born in Puerto Rico, the Piña Colada has become the quintessential tropical drink. In its “virgin” version, it appeals to those who want the smooth, exotic flavors of pineapple and coconut without the rum.
Original recipe (for 1 glass)
- 10 cl of pineapple juice
- 4 cl of coconut milk or coconut cream
- Crushed ice
- 1 fresh pineapple wedge (for garnish, optional)
Preparation
- In a blender, combine the pineapple juice, coconut milk, and crushed ice.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into a glass, garnish with a fresh pineapple wedge or a tiny umbrella, and enjoy this taste of the tropics.
5. Virgin Mule
The Moscow Mule is an American cocktail dating back to the 1940s, revisited here in a non-alcoholic version. The Virgin Mule keeps the same fresh, spicy base thanks to ginger beer, while remaining light and festive.
Original recipe (for 1 glass)
- 12 cl of ginger beer (or ginger ale)
- 2 cl fresh lime juice
- 1 cl of sugar syrup (optional)
- A few mint leaves for garnish
- Ice cubes
Preparation
- Fill a glass (or a traditional copper mug) with ice.
- Pour in the lime juice and, if desired, the sugar syrup.
- Top up with ginger beer.
- Garnish with a few mint leaves and enjoy right away.
Conclusion
These five mocktails showcase the diversity of tastes and flavors enjoyed in France. From the fizzy Virgin Mojito to the spicy Virgin Mule, each recipe brings a unique touch to brighten up your gatherings and evenings.
Tip: Even without alcohol, pay attention to sugar content, and feel free to customize these recipes according to your preferences!
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