Next to froses, Moscow mules are one of summer’s most popular cocktails. But sadly, this seemingly light drink packs more than 180 calories and 20 grams of sugar per glass (hello simple syrup and sugary ginger beer). Never fear: In this lighter version of the cocktail, we make our own quick 10-minute ginger beer using pureed ginger and sparkling water. To sweeten it up, we use stevia, an all-natural sweetener, which cuts the sugar per glass down to just half a gram and under 100 calories! You’ll gladly cheers to this low-calorie Moscow mule recipe.
Oh, and before you sip — beware of copper mugs that aren’t lined with nickel or stainless steel. When mixed with acidic drinks, cooper can be toxic and cause nausea, vomiting and other illnesses. (Not quite a day at the beach…)
RELATED: 12 Easy Low-Sugar Cocktails with Seltzer Water
100-Calorie Healthy Moscow Mule Recipe
Makes 2 drinks
Prep time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
110 grams ginger root
1 cup water
2 teaspoons stevia
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup sparkling water
1/4 cup vodka
2 sprigs of mint
Half a lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- In a blender, combine the water and ginger root (no need to peel) and blend until the ginger has completely pureed. Pour the mixture through a cheesecloth into a saucepan Alternatively, you can use a clean dishcloth or coffee filter.
- Put the saucepan on high heat on the stove and add in the stevia and lemon juice. Boil the mixture for approximately 10 minutes until the liquid has reduced to half. Take it off the heat and allow it to cool.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the cooled ginger liquid with sparkling water and vodka and shake to combine. Pour drink into two glasses or copper mugs with ice. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wedge.
Want more healthy cocktail ideas? Lift your spirits up with these superfood cocktail recipes.