Shake Strain Done: Craft Cocktails At Home
Introduction
With the rise of mixology and craft cocktails, it's easy to feel intimidated when you're at home and want to make a fancy drink. But fear not – with the proper tools and techniques, you can create delicious cocktails that rival those of your favorite bars.
The Basics
Before you get started, there are a few things you should know. First, invest in a good cocktail shaker. There are three types: the Boston shaker, the Cobbler shaker, and the French shaker. Each has its own pros and cons, so choose the one that works best for you.
Next, you'll need a strainer. There are several types, but the Hawthorne strainer is the most common. It fits over the top of your shaker and keeps ice and other debris from getting into your drink.
The Ingredients
The key to a great cocktail is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. You don't need to break the bank, but avoid using cheap, sugary mixers. Instead, invest in fresh citrus, good-quality spirits, and simple syrups.
Experiment with different flavors and textures. Don't be afraid to try new things – you might just discover your new favorite cocktail.
The Techniques
Now that you have your tools and ingredients, it's time to get mixing. The basic technique is simple: combine your ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake vigorously, and strain into a glass. But there are a few tricks to make your cocktails even better.
First, always measure your ingredients. Eyeballing it can lead to a drink that's too sweet, too sour, or too strong. Use a jigger or measuring cup to ensure accuracy.
Next, use the right ice. Large, dense ice cubes will melt slower and dilute your drink less, while small ice cubes will melt faster and dilute your drink more.
Finally, know when to shake and when to stir. Shaking is best for cocktails with citrus or other juices, while stirring is best for cocktails made with only spirits.
The Recipes
Now that you're a pro, it's time to try out some recipes. Here are a few classic cocktails to get you started:
Old Fashioned
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube or 1 tsp simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 orange peel
- 1 maraschino cherry
Instructions:
- Place sugar cube or simple syrup in a glass.
- Add bitters and a splash of water.
- Muddle until sugar is dissolved.
- Add whiskey and stir.
- Add ice and stir again.
- Garnish with orange peel and cherry.
Margarita
Ingredients:
- 2 oz tequila
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz triple sec or Cointreau
- Salt
Instructions:
- Rim a glass with salt.
- Combine tequila, lime juice, and triple sec in a shaker with ice.
- Shake vigorously.
- Strain into the salt-rimmed glass.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
Conclusion
With these tips and recipes, you'll be making craft cocktails at home like a pro in no time. Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things – that's what mixology is all about. Cheers!