Windows Update Mule

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A refreshing twist on the classic mule featuring ginger, lime, and a hint of mint, perfect for rebooting your palate. This cocktails & beverages-inspired quick meals ready in about 6 minutes pairs Vodka, Fresh lime juice, Ginger beer for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 190 calories and feeds 1, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 6 min Serves 1 Cocktails & Beverages cuisine 190 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Equipment for this recipe

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a cocktail shaker, lightly muddle 6 fresh mint leaves to release their aroma.
  2. Step 2: Add 2 oz vodka and 1 oz fresh lime juice to the shaker, then fill halfway with ice cubes.
  3. Step 3: Shake gently for 10 seconds to chill and mix without bruising the mint excessively.
  4. Step 4: Strain into a copper mule mug filled with crushed ice.
  5. Step 5: Top with 4 oz ginger beer and stir once gently to combine.
  6. Step 6: Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim and a fresh mint sprig tucked inside the mug.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Windows Update Mule take to make?

Total time is about 6 minutes (6 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.

How do I store leftover Windows Update Mule?

Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep vodka from drying out.

Can I substitute ingredients in Windows Update Mule?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Windows Update Mule for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 1 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 1). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Windows Update Mule?

Cocktails & Beverages quick meals like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.