How to Make an Old Fashioned Cocktail
An old fashioned cocktail is a classic cocktail that is prepared by muddling sugar with bitters. This mixture is then added to whiskey and served with ice in an old fashioned glass. It is traditionally garnished with an orange slice or cocktail cherry. Here are a few tips on how to make an old fashioned cocktail.
Simple syrup
Making simple syrup at home is a very easy process and can last for several weeks in the fridge. You simply combine equal parts of sugar and water, and cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Once you’ve made it, store it in glass jars in the refrigerator for future use.
Simple syrup is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different cocktail recipes. In addition to being a sweetener, it also adds a floral flavor. It can be used in classic drinks like the Daiquiri, and for creating new concoctions on the fly.
Angostura bitters
Angostura bitters is made from an unusual blend of herbs and spices. Its original recipe was developed in the 1820s by Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert, a German surgeon general serving in Simon Bolivar’s army. The bitters were first sold to ship captains directly from the distillery. Eventually, the bitters made their way to the United States and England. In 1873, the bitters were awarded a silver medal at the Vienna Exposition. The recipe was sold in other countries, but the family of Siegert and his business partners were determined to protect it.
Making your own bitters is easy and fun, but it can take several weeks. If you’re short on time, you can use a quick infusion method. Grind up whole spices and add a few drops of alcohol to the mixture. Allow the infusion to steep for five to 10 minutes. Another option is to use muddled fruit instead. The flavor is similar, but not as strong as Angostura.
Bourbon or rye whiskey
If you’re making a Bourbon Old Fashioned cocktail, the choice of whiskey is an important one. Bourbon is generally the preferred choice, though rye whiskey can also be used. A good bourbon should be at least 60 proof. This will allow the drink to hold up to the ice and not be too sweet. In the early versions of the cocktail, gin was often used instead of whiskey.
You can also use Amaretto, a sweetener, in the new fashioned. To add flavor, you can also add an orange peel. The price range for a bottle of bourbon is $30, while a bottle of rye whiskey may cost up to $45 a bottle.
Fruit garnishes
When you want to give an old-fashioned recipe a modern twist, try adding fruit garnishes. These are not only tasty, but they add a subtle fresh-fruit flavor. In addition, they provide visual cues as well. For example, a maraschino cherry or brandied cherry provides contrasting sweetness. These can be used in spirit-forward or sour style cocktails. Another great garnish is a citrus wheel. Slices or wheels of citrus are a nice touch, and they can be easily placed on the glass’s edge.
Another classic garnish is an orange twist. This is the perfect garnish for an Old Fashioned. The orange twist adds a unique twist to this classic cocktail. Another common ingredient is muddled fruit. It is made from oranges, cherries, and sugar. Then, the fruit is placed in an Old Fashioned glass with fresh ice.
Ice
If you want to have an old fashioned ice cream, you will need to prepare a few ingredients first. Milk and sugar are the most common ingredients. You can use a refrigerator to prepare them, or use an electric counter top freezer to make them at home. To make ice cream, stir the milk and sugar together. Place them in the freezer for at least 24 hours. Once frozen, the ice will be ready for you to serve.