Not having that bright red syrup on hand? Here is the best grenadine substitute for mixing cocktails.
Do you make a cocktail that calls for grenadine and you don’t have any? Don’t worry, there are only a few options that work for this cocktail syrup! grenadine is a bright red syrup used in cocktails. People mistakenly think it’s cherry, but it’s actually pomegranate juice! (The name comes from the French word for pomegranate, grenade.) Grenadine is used in many popular drinks: including a non-alcoholic Shirley Temple and the vibrant Tequila Sunrise.
All in grenadine or not commercially available? Here is the best grenadine substitute.
Best grenadine substitute
1. Homemade Pomegranate
The Best Grenadine Substitute? Make Homemade Grenadine Syrup! You can prepare grenadine at home from fresh pomegranate seed juice. This results in a brilliant pink color made naturally from scratch. How do you? Scroll down to the recipe below.
2. Pomegranate Juice + Simple Syrup
Another great substitute for grenadine? Pomegranate juice and simple syrup. Mix together 2 parts simple syrup and 1 part pomegranate juice. It yields a sweet, bright red syrup that looks very similar to the real thing. Another option if you have it or want to do it? pomegranate molasses.
3. Raspberry Syrup
Another grenadine substitute? Raspberry syrup. This cocktail syrup is bright red and beautifully sweet. You get the berry flavor too, but there’s nothing wrong with that! You can buy raspberry syrup at a liquor store or make homemade raspberry syrup using fresh or frozen raspberries and sugar.
4. Maraschino juice (from the cocktail cherry glass)
One last grenadine substitute for emergencies? Maraschino juice from a glass of cocktail cherries! It has a milder flavor than grenadine, but it works and brings that signature color. See how it works in this fresh cherry lemonade.
Related Recipes
Here are some grenadine recipes to try:
The description
Here’s how to make Grenadine Syrup, that bright red syrup for cocktails! It’s all natural and easy to make with pomegranate juice.
- Prepare pomegranate juice: If using whole pomegranates, remove the seeds (see directions above). Place the pomegranate seeds in a cocktail shaker (or tall glass) and mash with a pestle or wooden spoon until all the juice is released. Then strain it through a fine mesh strainer into a measuring cup.
- In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the pomegranate juice and sugar and stir until the sugar has dissolved, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from fire.
- Let cool and stir in the lemon juice. Pour into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three weeks. For longer storage, add 1 tablespoon of vodka or brandy to thicken the syrup.
Remarks
*You can also use bottled pomegranate juice, but the color won’t be as bright.
- Category: Essential
- Method: Cook
- Kitchen: cocktails
- Diet: vegan
Keywords: Grenadine Substitute
