Cocktails are a fantastic way to bring a touch of luxury to any occasion, and making them at home can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. One particularly special cocktail that is sure to impress is the classic Old Fashioned. Originating in the early 1800s, the Old Fashioned is a whiskey-based cocktail that has remained popular throughout the years. In this article, we will explore the history of the Old Fashioned, the ingredients and tools needed to make it, and provide step-by-step instructions for creating the perfect drink.
Background
The Old Fashioned is believed to have originated in the early 1800s in the United States, where it was originally known as the "Whiskey Cocktail". Over time, the recipe evolved, and in the late 1800s, bartenders began to refer to it as the "Old Fashioned Whiskey Cocktail". The cocktail remained popular throughout the 20th century, and in recent years, it has experienced a resurgence in popularity.
To make an Old Fashioned, you will need the following ingredients:
Bourbon or rye whiskey |
2 oz |
Sugar cube (or granulated sugar) |
1(or 1/2 tsp granulated sugar ) |
Angostura bitters |
2 dashes |
Orange peel |
1 |
Ice |
Moderate |
To make an Old Fashioned, you will need the following tools:
A mixing glass |
|
A bar spoon |
|
A jigger |
|
A muddler |
|
A strainer |
|
A rocks glass |
Directions Step by Step
-
Begin by adding the sugar cube or granulated sugar to the mixing glass.
-
Add the Angostura bitters to the sugar and muddle until the sugar is dissolved.
-
Add 1 oz of the whiskey to the mixing glass and stir to combine.
-
Add a large ice cube to the mixing glass and stir for 30 seconds.
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Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
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Add the remaining 1 oz of whiskey to the rocks glass.
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Use a vegetable peeler to cut a wide strip of orange peel.
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Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink by holding the peel skin-side down over the glass and pinching it, releasing a mist of oil onto the surface.
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Twist the orange peel over the drink to release additional oils and add the peel to the drink as a garnish.
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enjoy!
Notes
1.The type of whiskey you use will affect the flavor of the cocktail. Bourbon tends to be sweeter and smoother, while rye whiskey has a spicier flavor.
2.Using a sugar cube instead of granulated sugar will result in a slightly sweeter cocktail.
3.Angostura bitters are the most commonly used bitters in an Old Fashioned, but other bitters can be used to vary the flavor of the cocktail.
4.The orange peel garnish is optional, but it adds a nice touch of flavor and aroma to the cocktail.
Summary
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and tools, you can make a delicious and impressive cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you prefer bourbon or rye whiskey, this timeless cocktail is sure to be a hit. So why not give it a try and see for yourself why the Old Fashioned has stood the test of time?
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