Fennel & Cucumber Daiquiri

Daiquiris, which allow for endless modifications, are the comeback kid of the cocktail world. Traditionally made with just three ingredients, their simplicity allows for variations of any kind: tropical, herbal or even savory. This cucumber and fennel variation uses fresh, seasonal yet unconventional flavors for a Daiquiri with vegetal character. Paired with bright fresh citrus and a quality white rum, this cocktail is perfect poolside or batched for your next dinner party.

Fennel & Cucumber Daiquiri

Serves 1

Fennel Simple Syrup (Yields 24 ounces)

2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup water

1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced

½ cup roughly chopped fennel fronds

1 pinch kosher salt

Cocktail

1 1-inch cucumber slice, plus more for garnish

½ oz fennel simple syrup (recipe below)

2 oz white rum

1 oz fresh lime juice

/ Preparation – Fennel Simple Syrup /

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add sugar and water, stirring until sugar has dissolved. Bring to a simmer and remove from heat. Add sliced fennel and fennel fronds to pan and allow to infuse until cool, about 15 to 20 minutes. Strain solids. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

/ Preparation – Cocktail /

In a shaker tin, add cucumber slice and simple syrup and lightly muddle to release cucumber juices. Add white rum, lime juice and ice and shake vigorously; strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a cucumber slice. Serve.

3 White Rums to up your Daiquiri

White rum is essential for a classic Daiquiri. I particularly love these three brands for their quality and character.

Plantation 3 Star White Rum

A multi-island blended rum with lots of character that’s great for Daiquiris and mixed drinks.

Foursquare Probitas White Rum

Funky and affordable, Foursquare Probitas is a combination of Jamaican and Barbados rums.

El Dorado 3 Year Old White Rum

Aged for three years, this rum is rich and viscous with flavors of cream soda and vanilla.

Written by Rogan Howitt, co-owner, Good Spirits & Co. in Springfield, Missouri

Photography by Starboard & Port Creative