Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you're in the mood for a delicious vodka cocktail, but your pantry is practically empty? Fear not! We have the perfect guide for you. In this article, we’ll discuss some creative ways to mix vodka when you have nothing else at hand. You might just discover a new favorite drink!
Best Budget Vodkas Ranked
Smirnoff
A global vodka giant with Russian origins, Smirnoff delivers consistent quality and versatility for any mixer.
Alcohol Percentage: 40%
Taste Profile: Crisp, mild sweetness with a clean finish
Best Cocktail Pairing: Classic Cosmopolitan
Best Food Paring: Grilled chicken skewers
Brand Breakdown: Find out more here
Absolut
Swedish purity in a bottle, Absolut is distilled from winter wheat, giving a smooth and rich experience.
Alcohol Percentage: 40%
Taste Profile: Smooth with light grain and citrus hints
Best Cocktail Pairing: Absolut Elyx Martini
Best Food Paring: Smoked salmon canapés
Brand Breakdown: Find out more here
Ketel One
A Dutch treat, Ketel One is the result of over 300 years of distilling expertise; a refined choice.
Alcohol Percentage: 40%
Taste Profile: Fresh with subtle citrus and honey notes
Best Cocktail Pairing: Dutch Mule
Best Food Paring: Aged cheeses or Dutch herring
Brand Breakdown: Find out more here
What To Mix With Vodka When You Have Nothing Table of Contents
Looking For The Best Vodka? You'll Love These Vodka Guides...
1. Vodka and Tap Water
While this might not sound like the most exciting drink, it is a great way to enjoy a refreshing, ice-cold vodka, especially if you have a high-quality brand. Fill a glass with ice and add equal parts cold tap water and vodka. Stir well and serve. You can also add a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of salt if you happen to have these ingredients around, but that's optional.
2. Vodka and Soda
A plain soda from your fridge or pantry can be an excellent mixer for vodka. Most people have a can of soda lying around, and it can create a simple yet enjoyable drink. You can mix vodka with Coke, Sprite, ginger ale, or any other soda you may have. Just fill a glass with ice, pour equal parts vodka and soda, stir, and enjoy.
3. Vodka and Coffee
If you're in need of a caffeinated kick, try mixing vodka with your morning coffee. Pour a shot of vodka into a cup of hot or cold coffee, depending on your preference. If you happen to have milk or cream, feel free to add that too. You'll end up with a strong and delicious cocktail that can act as a pick-me-up anytime of the day.
4. Vodka and Orange Juice
You might have some orange juice in your fridge, so why not make a classic Screwdriver cocktail? Just mix equal parts of vodka and orange juice in a glass filled with ice, and you have a refreshing drink that's perfect for any occasion. If you want to make it even tastier, you can add a splash of grenadine to make a Tequila Sunrise-like concoction.
5. Vodka Infusions
If you're feeling adventurous, infusing your vodka with different flavors can be an exciting option. Just take the items you do have – fruit, herbs, spices, or even pickles – and infuse the vodka with them. Put your chosen ingredients in a jar, fill it up with vodka and let it sit for few hours or days to fully infuse. Then, you can enjoy your customized flavored vodka with ice, neat or with your choice of soda. Some suggested infusions are:
- Vanilla bean
- Jalapeño peppers
- Cinnamon sticks
- Lemon or lime peels
What To Mix With Vodka When You Have Nothing Example:
Vodka Tap Water Spritzer
You're craving a refreshing vodka drink, but all you have is vodka, tap water, and an ice tray. Let's make the most of what we've got!
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vodka
- 2 oz cold tap water
- Ice
- Lime wedge or lemon slice (optional)
Instructions:
- Fill a highball or any tall glass with ice.
- Add the vodka and cold tap water to the glass.
- Stir well to combine the water and vodka.
- If you happen to have a lime wedge or lemon slice, add it to your drink for a touch of citrus flavor.
- Enjoy your refreshing Vodka Tap Water Spritzer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some simple mixers I can use with vodka?
Simple mixers include soda water, tonic water, lemon or lime juice, and fruit juices such as cranberry, orange, or pineapple. Even a splash of cola can suffice in a pinch.
Can I mix vodka with just water?
Yes, you can. Adding vodka to water is a way to enjoy the spirit without extra flavors or sugars. For taste, you could add a squeeze of lemon or lime.
Is it okay to drink vodka straight?
Drinking vodka straight is perfectly fine. It is a matter of personal preference. High-quality vodka is often enjoyed neat to appreciate its flavors and smoothness.
What can I use if I want to add sweetness to my vodka drink?
For sweetness, you can mix in simple syrup, honey, agave nectar, or a sugar cube. You can also use sweetened soda or juice as mixers.
Is tea a good mixer for vodka?
Tea can be an excellent and unexpected mixer for vodka, providing a broad range of flavors depending on the type of tea used.
How do you make a basic vodka cocktail?
To make a basic vodka cocktail, mix 1.5 ounces of vodka with any preferred mixer in a glass filled with ice. Stir well and garnish if desired.
Are there any non-alcoholic mixers that go well with vodka?
Non-alcoholic mixers that pair well with vodka include ginger beer, sparkling water, coffee, and iced tea for diverse flavor profiles.
Can I use fruit to flavor vodka?
Absolutely. Fresh fruit, such as berries, citrus, or melons, can add natural flavors to vodka. Muddle the fruit in the vodka to release its juices.
What herbs or spices could I add to a vodka drink?
Mint, basil, rosemary, and cilantro can add a refreshing twist, while spices like cinnamon or cardamom can offer a warm note to your vodka drink.
Are there any dietary considerations when mixing vodka?
Most plain vodkas are gluten-free and low in calories. When mixing, consider low-calorie mixers like soda water or fresh juices if you're watching your intake.
What are some creative mix-ins for vodka cocktails?
Creative mix-ins include bitters, flavored syrups, marmalade, grenadine, or even a splash of olive juice for those who like it savory.
How do I make a vodka drink more refreshing?
To make a vodka drink more refreshing, combine it with cool, crisp mixers such as cucumber slices, fresh mint, or even iced herbal teas.
What kind of glass should I serve a vodka drink in?
Vodka drinks can be served in a variety of glasses. Use a highball glass for long drinks, a martini glass for straight-up cocktails, or a rocks glass for on the rocks.
Can I use frozen fruit as a mixer for vodka?
Yes, frozen fruit works well and also keeps the drink cold. Blend it with vodka for a slushy texture or let it thaw slightly and use as a flavorful ice cube.
How can I make a vodka drink without any mixers at all?
Infuse the vodka with flavors like citrus zest, spices, or herbs, and enjoy it chilled and neat or over ice.
How do I balance the flavors in a vodka cocktail?
Balancing flavors involves mixing the right proportions of spirit, sweetness, sourness, and bitterness. Start with a base recipe and adjust to your taste.
Is it possible to make a creamy vodka drink without a cream liqueur?
Yes, you can make a creamy vodka drink by adding ingredients like milk, half-and-half, or coconut milk for a non-dairy option.
What are some health-conscious vodka cocktail options?
Health-conscious options include drinks mixed with soda water, unsweetened teas, or freshly squeezed juices. Also consider avoiding sugary syrups and artificial mixers.
How can I create a themed vodka cocktail?
Theme your vodka cocktail around a holiday, event, or flavor profile. Use ingredients that match the color scheme or seasonal flavors, such as pumpkin spice for fall.
Can I prepare a large batch of vodka cocktails in advance?
Yes, many vodka cocktails can be prepared in a pitcher or punch bowl ahead of time. Just be sure to add any carbonated mixers right before serving to maintain fizz.
What are some quick fixes for a vodka cocktail that doesn't taste quite right?
If your cocktail is too strong, add more mixer; if too sweet, add a little lemon or lime juice; and if too sour, a dash of simple syrup can help. Taste and adjust accordingly.
Now that you know how to get creative with vodka, even when it seems like your cupboards are bare, there's no excuse not to experiment. Maybe you'll find a new favorite cocktail along the way! If you found this guide helpful, be sure to share it with your friends and explore the other vodka-focused articles on Vodka Doctors. Cheers to making the most of what you have – and discovering new recipes in the process!
