Classic Greyhound Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces of vodka
  • 5 ounces of fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1/2 ounce of simple syrup
  • Ice cubes
  • Grapefruit slice for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer for about 10 minutes before preparing the drink.
  2. In a mixing glass, combine the vodka, fresh grapefruit juice, and simple syrup.
  3. Add ice cubes to the mixing glass.
  4. Stir the ingredients together well, until the outside of the mixing glass feels cold.
  5. Remove your cocktail glass from the freezer, and strain the cocktail into the glass.
  6. Garnish the cocktail with a slice of grapefruit before serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing glass - Used to combine the ingredients and stir the cocktail.
  • Cocktail shaker - Can be used instead of a mixing glass to shake the ingredients together with ice.
  • Cocktail strainer - Used to strain the cocktail into the serving glass, separating it from any ice or pulp.
  • Cocktail jigger - A measuring tool used to accurately measure the vodka and simple syrup.
  • Cocktail glass - A chilled glass used for serving the Greyhound cocktail.
  • Ice cubes - Used to chill the cocktail and keep it cold while stirring.
  • Garnish knife - Used to slice the grapefruit for garnishing the cocktail.

Recipe variations

  • Swap vodka with gin for a different flavor profile.
  • Use ruby red grapefruit juice instead of fresh grapefruit juice.
  • Add a splash of club soda for some effervescence.
  • Replace simple syrup with agave syrup for a slightly different sweetness.
  • Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or a few basil leaves for an herbal twist.
  • Experiment with different garnishes such as a cucumber slice or a spritz of lime juice.

Recipe overview

This delicious Greyhound cocktail recipe provides a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion. Requiring only a few simple ingredients - vodka, fresh grapefruit juice, simple syrup, and ice - this cocktail is not only tasty, but also easy to prepare. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or a novice, the Greyhound is a delightful drink to add to your repertoire. In just a few steps, you'll be sipping on a refreshing, citrusy cocktail that's sure to impress.

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of vodka? Yes, you can substitute vodka with other clear spirits like gin or tequila if you prefer a different flavor profile.
  2. What can I use as a substitute for fresh grapefruit juice? If fresh grapefruit juice is not available, you can use bottled grapefruit juice. However, try to choose one that is 100% pure juice without any added sugar or artificial flavors.
  3. Is it necessary to use simple syrup? Simple syrup helps to balance the flavors in the Greyhound cocktail. If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can reduce the amount of simple syrup or omit it altogether.
  4. Can I use crushed ice instead of ice cubes? While ice cubes are typically used in this recipe, crushed ice can also be used to make the drink more refreshing and chilled.
  5. Should the grapefruit slice be added to the drink or just used as a garnish? The grapefruit slice is primarily used as a garnish to enhance the presentation of the cocktail. However, if you prefer a stronger grapefruit flavor, you can squeeze the juice from the garnish into the drink before discarding it.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing Glass - A glass container used for mixing and stirring cocktail ingredients.
  • Cocktail Shaker - A tool used for shaking cocktail ingredients with ice to chill and mix them.
  • Jigger - A measuring tool with two sides, typically used to measure spirits and other liquid ingredients.
  • Bar Spoon - A long-handled spoon used for stirring cocktails and layering ingredients.
  • Cocktail Strainer - A tool used to strain the cocktail and separate it from ice and other solid ingredients.
  • Cocktail Glass - A glassware specifically designed to serve cocktails, often with a stemmed or elegant shape.
  • Ice Cubes - Essential for chilling the cocktail and keeping it cold throughout serving.
  • Garnish Knife - A small knife used for cutting and preparing garnishes, such as fruit slices.

Origin stories

The Greyhound is a cocktail that dates back to the 1930s. Originally, it was simply a mix of canned grapefruit juice and gin, and it was identified in Harper's Magazine as the perfect concoction for a refreshing, albeit somewhat bitter, post-hunt drink. However, the cocktail’s reputation soared in the 1950s when Smirnoff vodka began promoting the Greyhound in its advertisements, swapping gin for vodka. The transformation didn't stop there. When a salted rim was added to the glass, the cocktail took on a new name: the Salty Dog. Despite its evolution over the years, the Greyhound in its pure form remains a beloved cocktail for its simplicity and refreshing taste.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.