How to Make a Smokey Old Fashioned that Will Impress Your Guests
If you’re looking for an impressive cocktail to serve your guests that will leave a lasting impression, look no further than the smokey old fashioned. This classic cocktail has been around for over a century, and its rich flavor profile and sophisticated presentation make it the perfect choice for any occasion.
What You’ll Need
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools. To make a smokey old fashioned, you will need:
– Bourbon or rye whiskey
– Simple syrup or sugar cubes
– Bitters (usually Angostura)
– An orange
– A small piece of wood or smoky ingredient (such as a smoked cinnamon stick or a burnt orange peel)
You’ll also need a mixing glass, a jigger, a bar spoon, a strainer, and a rocks glass.
The Recipe
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, it’s time to start making your smokey old fashioned.
1. Start by adding your sugar and bitters to the mixing glass. If using simple syrup, add about 1/4 oz.; if using sugar cubes, muddle them with a few dashes of bitters until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Next, add your whiskey to the mixing glass. For a traditional old fashioned, use 2 oz. of bourbon or rye.
3. Add ice to the mixing glass and stir the contents with your bar spoon for about 30 seconds, until the drink is well-chilled and the flavors have melded together.
4. Strain the drink into your rocks glass over a large ice cube.
5. Now it’s time to add the smoky element to the drink. This can be done in a few different ways, depending on your preference. One option is to use a small piece of wood or a smoky ingredient, such as a smoked cinnamon stick. Light the wood or ingredient on fire and hold it over the drink, letting the smoke infuse into the cocktail for a few seconds. If you prefer a less smoky flavor, you can also simply hold a burnt orange peel over the drink and squeeze it to release the oils into the glass.
6. Garnish the drink with a twist of orange peel, running it around the rim of the glass before dropping it in.
Tips for Success
To really impress your guests with your smokey old fashioned, there are a few tips to keep in mind.
– Use high-quality ingredients. The better the whiskey and bitters you use, the better the drink will taste.
– Don’t overdo it on the smoke. While the smoky element is what really sets this drink apart, too much smoke can overwhelm the other flavors in the cocktail.
– Keep it chilled. Make sure you stir the drink well and serve it over a large ice cube to keep it cold.
– Have fun with your garnishes. While a simple orange twist is traditional, you can also get creative with your garnishes to add extra flair.
In Conclusion
With its rich, complex flavors and impressive presentation, the smokey old fashioned is the perfect cocktail to serve when you want to wow your guests. By following these simple steps and keeping these tips in mind, you can create a drink that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Cheers!
