Bartending question: lemon or lime?

Question

Let's say you're making a classic daiquiri. I sometimes find different suggestions on which to add in. Mostly suggest lime juice, but some also prefer lemon juice.

Can I use lemon juice and lime juice interchangeably? Would I mess up the drink if I use lemon instead of lime?

Thanks for the help!

Answer 1

By the second drink if you were generous with your initial pour, most patrons aren't going to notice the substitution, but there is a flavour difference.  Purists will object and you should use lime in the hispanic sourced mixes whenever possible because the taste of these drinks have been developed and enhanced by cultural traditions....would you include catsup in a French recipe?

Answer 2

When tending bar always stay with original drink recipes unless otherwise asked by your customer..don't encourage them differently from what they are used to and what they have asked for..you could find yourself without a repeat order...or a repeat customer. Always keep your garnishes the same as well and refer to bar cheat sheets or bar book if in question..don't be hesitant...be right.

Answer 3

depends on personal taste...

notice that lime has a stronger taste while lemon is a bit lighter, you could almost say cleaner or more feminine...

Answer 4

Use sweet and sour mix to make the perfect daiquiri ---- it's the standard for a good daiquiri. Sweet and Sour mix is basically a mixture of lemon and lime juices. Blend well, for thicker daqs'. Daiquiris are always (normally) garnished with a slice of lime ---not a wedge ----and NEVER a lemon.

To answer your complete question ---- using either lime OR lemon will not "mess up" your drink, but it will not be your best daiquiri.

NOTE: Definition: Sweet and sour mix is a commonly used mixer made of sugar and lemon AND lime juices. Pre-mixed sweet and sour can be found in almost anywhere spirits are sold or it can easily be made from scratch.

To make sweet and sour mix:

Method 1:

Combine 1 cup sugar with 1 cup water until sugar is completely dissolved. Add 1 cup fresh lime juice and 1 cup fresh lemon juice and refrigerate.

Regarding Margaritas: This has nothing to do with the Asker's question, though good tequila IS the main alcohol in this drink and 1/2 jigger of Triple Sec. (NOT an amateur bartender here, you wise cracker you! .....You're not a very friendly bartender ---- you're a bit arrogant quite frankly).

And yes ---you may certainly add me to your contact list, pjberkel.........I'm always happy to help.

Happy mixing!

Answer 5

for a classic daiquiri use a hint of lime juice or sour mix works too.  Put a splash of pineapple juice in it too, trust me it is amazing.  So I would make it like this..rum or vodka daiquiri mix, ice, sour mix or lime juice and pineapple juice.  Add some triple sec too it adds some yummy flavor.

Answer 6

Oh my stars... these poor "i read it in a book" bartenders!!

In a daiquiri... you use LIME juice! Its sweeter and has a VERY different taste from lemon.

Sour mix is NOT a mix of lemon and lime juice. Its lemon juice and simple syrup.  

And no... you don't make a margarita by adding tequila to "the mix from aisle 5"  AMATEURS!!

Answer 7

Try it with one, try it with the other, try it with both....none are wrong.  Use which ever you prefer.  

Don't interchange them, if someone buys one and likes it they will probably come back and they will want the same one.

Answer 8

Generally it's lime juice because its slightly sweeter than lemon juice.  It could seriously change the drink if you add lemon juice (especially when your customer expects a drink with lime!).

Answer 9

nope either works, but if your making it for someone else, ask them see if they have a preference... but if not then either would work

Answer 10

Lime is better cause it gives it a little something more

Answer 11

I would say yes it would tatse different with lemon I prefer lime personally. Cheers

Answer 12

why not use lemon and lime... its the best combination....

to my experience, 4 squeeze of lime and 3 squeeze of lemon with 10ml of sugar syrup makes a perfect sour... try it our with whiskey sour and midori sour or chamboard sour... u will be surprised...

Ethanol

Answer 13

I waitress and I get to mess around with the alcoholic drinks with our bartender. =]]

I have to say, I've tried lime in a classic daiquiri. I personally loved it.

I definitly think you should mix it up from time to time. Lime gives it a kick. Lemon, not so much with me.

I don't think you would be messing up the drink at all. BUT THATS JUST ME

Answer 14

Lime.

Lemons are to put in your drink at resturants. Thats what they taught me in bartending school.