📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 14%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 16g
Prep time 4 minutes
Imagine a sip of summer in a glass—that’s the Tom Collins for you. It’s a refreshing blend of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water, a simple but delightful mix. Let’s embark on the journey of discovering its rich history, vibrant taste, and how you can create your own, shall we? ⬇️
History
The Tom Collins cocktail dates back to the 1870s in England and quickly became a popular refreshment. It is named after a practical joke that became widely known as “The Great Tom Collins Hoax” of 1874. This drink has stood the test of time, remaining a favorite for its refreshing taste.
- The name “Tom Collins” comes from a hoax where people were told someone named Tom Collins was speaking ill of them, prompting a search for this non-existent person.
- Originally, it was made with Old Tom Gin, a sweeter gin that was popular in 19th-century England.
- The Tom Collins was first recorded in writing by the father of American mixology, Jerry Thomas, in his 1876 bartender’s guide.
The taste of a Tom Collins?
A Tom Collins tastes like a sparkling lemonade with a grown-up twist. It’s both sweet and tart, with the gin providing a floral or herbal undertone.
I find the Tom Collins to be the epitome of refreshment, perfect for sipping on a sun-drenched porch.
Interesting facts about Tom Collins
- The Tom Collins is often associated with the phrase “mixing business with pleasure” due to its popularity among businessmen during the late 19th century.
- It’s considered the cornerstone of the Collins family of drinks, which all feature a spirit, lemon juice, sugar, and soda water.
- In the digital age, the Tom Collins has inspired a variety of apps and online tools to help perfect the making of this classic cocktail.
Ingredients
- Gin: 2 oz (60ml)
- Lemon juice: 1 oz (30ml)
- Simple syrup: 1/2 oz (15ml)
- Soda water: to top up
- Ice cubes: as needed
- Garnish (optional): a slice of lemon and a cherry
Collins glass is the traditional choice for a Tom Collins, its tall stature allowing the effervescence and aroma to flourish. An alternative, the highball glass, works well too, offering a slightly more casual experience.
Recipe. How to make Tom Collins
- Chill the Collins glass in the freezer for a few minutes.
- In a shaker, mix gin, 1 oz of lemon juice, and 1/2 oz of simple syrup with ice.
- Shake well and strain into the chilled glass filled with ice cubes.
- Top with soda water, stir gently, and garnish with a lemon slice and cherry if desired.
While the Tom Collins is a treat, it’s important to remember it contains sugar and calories. For a healthier twist, try natural sweeteners or less sugar. The lemon juice does provide some vitamin C, but moderation is key.
Food Pairings
A Tom Collins can be a delightful companion to various dishes, enhancing flavors and creating a well-rounded dining experience. Here’s how to pair it perfectly:
Grilled Chicken
The acidity of the Tom Collins cuts through the richness of grilled chicken, balancing the meal with its crisp finish.
Salads
The light, effervescent nature of the cocktail complements fresh greens and vinaigrette-based dressings, making for a refreshing pairing.
Fruit Desserts
A Tom Collins can be a charming match for fruit desserts like tarts or sorbets, echoing their tartness and adding a fizzy contrast.
I simply adore the way a Tom Collins makes my palate dance with its balance of sweet and sour—always a treat!
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Bartender Advice
- To achieve the crisp, fizzy texture, always use fresh soda water.
- Experiment with different gins to find your preferred flavor profile, such as floral or citrus-forward.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest, most authentic taste.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Tom Collins, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Tom Collins
- Gin: Swap for vodka to make a Vodka Collins if you prefer a less herbal taste.
- Lemon juice: Try lime juice for a twist that’s sharper and more tropical.
- Sugar: Use honey or agave nectar to add a different kind of sweetness.
Tom Collins Variations
John Collins
- Ingredients: Substitute gin with bourbon.
- Recipe: Follow the same steps as a Tom Collins, but with bourbon for a richer flavor.
Summer Collins
- Ingredients: Add fresh berries and mint.
- Recipe: Muddle berries and mint before adding the gin and remaining ingredients.
Elderflower Collins
- Ingredients: Include elderflower liqueur.
- Recipe: Add a splash of elderflower liqueur to the mix for a floral twist.
For a non-alcoholic version, the Virgin Tom Collins is delightful. Simply replace the gin with additional soda water and a touch more lemon for zing.
Q&A
Can I make a Tom Collins without gin?
Absolutely! Just use vodka or even non-alcoholic ingredients for a mocktail version. It’s all about the mix of sweet, sour, and bubbles.
What’s the best gin for a Tom Collins?
That depends on your taste! Some prefer a classic London Dry Gin, while others opt for something more modern and botanical.
Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice?
Fresh is best for that zesty kick, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled juice can work too—just watch out for additives.
Can I prepare a Tom Collins in advance?
It’s best enjoyed fresh due to the soda, but you can premix the gin, lemon, and syrup and add soda when serving.
What’s the difference between a Tom Collins and a Gin Fizz?
A Gin Fizz is shaken with egg white for a frothy texture, while a Tom Collins is simply stirred and has a lighter body.
Are there any tricks to getting the perfect fizz?
Use cold ingredients and add the soda water slowly to preserve as much carbonation as possible for that perfect sparkle.
