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Thyme-Infused Lemon Sorbet with Gin & Tonic Recipe

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4.1 from 215 reviews

This is a refreshing and vibrant thyme-infused lemon sorbet recipe paired perfectly with a classic Gin & Tonic. The sorbet features a delicate herbal aroma from fresh thyme combined with bright lemon juice and zest, sweetened with a simple syrup and enhanced with lemon liqueur or gin. It is lightened with an egg white for a smooth texture and served as a crisp palate cleanser or a delightful dessert. The accompanying Gin & Tonic cocktail elevates the sorbet into a sophisticated summer drink with fizzy tonic water and fresh garnishes.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes plus freezing time (approx. 4 hours)
  • Yield: About 4 servings of sorbet

Ingredients

Sorbet Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups sugar
  • 1 ¾ cups water
  • 3 – 4 thyme stalks
  • 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 Tbsp lemon liqueur or gin
  • 1 egg white

Gin & Tonic Ingredients

  • 3 ice cubes
  • 2 small scoops thyme-infused lemon sorbet
  • 1 shot (approx. 1.5 oz) gin
  • Fizzy tonic water (such as Schweppes)
  • 1 lemon slice (for garnish)
  • 1 sprig fresh thyme (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Make simple syrup and infuse thyme: In a small pot, bring the water and sugar to a boil, stirring until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat and add the thyme stalks, bruising them slightly to release their flavor. Allow the syrup to cool and infuse further.
  2. Combine lemon ingredients: Add freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and lemon liqueur or gin to the cooled syrup. Cover the mixture and chill in the refrigerator. You can prepare this mixture up to a day in advance for deeper flavor infusion.
  3. Process the sorbet: Strain the chilled liquid into your ice cream machine and churn according to the manufacturer's instructions. Just a few minutes before the sorbet is ready, beat the egg white to soft peaks and gently fold it into the sorbet mixture to lighten the texture.
  4. Freeze the sorbet: Once the egg white is fully incorporated, transfer the sorbet into a chilled metal container and freeze until firm to your desired consistency.
  5. Prepare the Gin & Tonic: To serve, place three ice cubes in a glass, add two small scoops of thyme-infused lemon sorbet, then pour over a shot of gin. Top with fizzy tonic water, garnish with a lemon slice and a fresh sprig of thyme, stir gently, and enjoy your refreshing cocktail.

Notes

  • You can substitute lemon liqueur with gin if preferred.
  • For best results, use a quality ice cream machine and chilled containers to ensure smooth texture.
  • The egg white is added for creaminess and to give the sorbet a light, airy consistency.
  • The sorbet base can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated to enhance the thyme flavor.
  • Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of sugar in the syrup according to your taste.
  • The Gin & Tonic with sorbet makes a perfect summer adult beverage or a palate-cleansing dessert cocktail.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: European