There's a restaurant in the city where we used to live, Irving, that serves one of my all-time favorite cocktails! The grapefruity-minty-delicious-vodka-ness that comes in this little concoction is a thing of true beauty. It brings back memories of hanging in the bar with my husband and my best friend trying to solve our early twentysomething problems.
After my thirtysomething problems these past few weeks, I decided I needed a little pick-me-up. So, the hubs made me this drink at home to bring back some good memories. And he did an AWESOME job of both drink makin' and good memory bringin'.
I took a screenshot from the website of the restaurant where I've had so many great times in order to get the make-up of the drink. You'll notice the original version is called the Front Porch Swing, but I decided to change it up since we don't have a front porch swing (we don't really have a back on either unless you consider Corey's). I thought it was fitting to call it the Back Porch Swing since we're always out there when we get the chance.
The restaurant from back home is called The Ranch in Las Colinas, so if you're ever in the area, you definitely should visit. The patio is absolutely fantastic and of course, you have to have a Front Porch Swing (also, get the crab dip - ohhh the crab dip).
As long as you've got ice and a shaker, you can make this bad boy. No muddling or anything else needed. We didn't even actually use simple syrup this time (like the original recipe) because we were lazy, but you could definitely do that if you want. I also like the agave nectar because it's got a lower glycemic index than sugar, so... it's like healthy right?
Keep in mind that a small, regular shot glass is 1 oz. Just use that as your measuring "cup" for the recipe, and you'll be on easy street, my friend.
The Back Porch Swing
1 1/2 oz. Deep Eddy's Grapefruit Vodka
1/4 oz. Campari
1 1/2 tbs. Agave nectar or simple syrup (more or less to taste)
1/4 oz. lime juice
4 Mint leaves, plus some to garnish
Throw everything into a shaker with lots of ice. Shake, shake, shake whatchyo' mama gave ya. Strain and serve over more ice. Garnish with mint leaves.
