If you're looking for low-calorie cocktails, the Skinny Bitch, also known as Vodka Soda, is right on top of the list. The simple, no-frills recipe makes for a super refreshing and light cocktail.
Soda water generally is the key to making low-calorie cocktails because it is not Vodka that makes the difference. Vodka with 40%ABV has a similar amount of calories as Scotch or Bourbon with 40%ABV.
But back to the Skinny Bitch Cocktail. Let's see how you can make this simple drink to perfection.
Jump to Recipe | Ingredients. |. How to make it | Variations | Why "Skinny Bitch"? | Vodka Soda vs Skinny Bitch
Ingredients
There are only three components you will need to make the best version of this drink:
- Quality Vodka
- freshly squeezed lime juice
- Soda Water with a good fizz
Don't use cheap Vodka for this, as there's nowhere to hide. A decent mid-shelf like Ketel One and Absolut or one of the still-affordable Premium brands like Belvedere are my go-to options.
For the Soda, the crucial thing is that it is ice cold and maintains its effervescence because, otherwise, the drink falls flat. I recommend using a chilled glass and large, solid ice when prepping this drink, so avoid too much dilution.
How to make it
The drink is considered a Highball, usually consisting of only two components, but here we make it three for an even better taste. So follow these instructions to get this refreshing drink right:
Step 1: Fill a previously chilled highball glass with solid ice cubes just below the rim.
Step 2: Add the Vodka and the lime juice. Then use a bar spoon and gently mix them.
Step 3: Fill up the glass with newly opened, ice-cold Soda Water.
If you follow our recipe, you will get the best version of a Vodka Soda, with just above 100 cal per serving and an average alcohol content of 12%.
Variations
Alternatively, you can leave off the lime juice and only add a slice of cucumber or a citrus peel to the drink. Also, some like to replace the lime juice with lemon. However, I find the slightly more bitter taste of limes more refreshing.
Why is it called Skinny Bitch?
It's unknown when and who first used the term Skinny Bitch (not Skinny Beach, by the way) for a Vodka Soda. However, it is evident that the name refers to the low amount of calories (about 100cal/serving) and the absence of sugar (0g/serving).
Additionally, appearance might have played a role, as the drink pretty much resembles water. That certainly helped in earning Voda Soda the nickname Skinny Bitch. -As opposed to Whiskey Soda with its amber color, for instance, but a similar calorie count.
This clean look makes it the preferred long drink of all calorie-counting drinkers. And lately, in many countries, the LGBTQ+ scene also celebrates Vodka Soda as a current favorite drink.
Difference between Skinny Bitch & Vodka Soda
Some people reason that Vodka Soda comes without the citrus part. -So only spirit and mixer, and, as such, a traditional two-component highball. Others, like me, use the terms synonymously. -Especially since a Vodka Soda without the lime is only half as good as it can be. And after all, citrus fruit does not make the drink less skinny.
Equipment
- 1 Highball glass
- 1 Lemon squeezer
- 1 Jigger (for measuring)
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Ketel One Vodka
- 3 oz Chilled soda water
- 0.5 oz Fresh lime juice
Instructions
- Fill a Highball glass with ice.
- Pour in the vodka and lime juice and gently stir the mix.1.5 oz Ketel One Vodka, 0.5 oz Fresh lime juice
- Fill up with chilled soda water and garnish with a lime wedge.3 oz Chilled soda water
Appreciate the attention to detail in the recipe even though it's quite a simple drink.