Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or just starting to explore the world of cocktails, the smoked old fashioned is a classic recipe that never disappoints. With its combination of rich whiskey, aromatic bitters, and a touch of sweetness, this cocktail is a true crowd-pleaser. In this article, we'll dive into the essential ingredients and steps to make a perfect smoked old fashioned.
What is an Old Fashioned?
The old fashioned is a timeless whiskey cocktail that has stood the test of time. It is believed to be one of the first widely known cocktails ever created. The name old fashioned comes from the way people used to order their drinks in a simple and straightforward manner.
Manhattan vs. Old Fashioned
While both the Manhattan and the old fashioned are popular whiskey-based cocktails, there are a few key differences between the two. The old fashioned is sweetened with sugar or simple syrup, while the Manhattan gets its sweetness from vermouth. Additionally, the old fashioned is garnished with an orange peel, whereas the Manhattan is garnished with a brandied cherry. The glassware used for serving also differs, with the old fashioned being served in a lowball glass and the Manhattan in a stemmed martini glass.
How to Make a Smoked Old Fashioned
Making a smoked old fashioned is easier than you might think. Here are the essential ingredients you'll need:
- Simple syrup: You can use store-bought simple syrup or make your own at home.
- Water: A teaspoon of water helps enhance the flavors of the bourbon.
- Bitters: Use store-bought bitters or experiment with making your own at home.
- Ice: Traditional old fashioned cocktails are served over ice.
- Bourbon: Choose a bourbon with a strong, bold, and balanced flavor.
- Garnishes: Finish off your smoked old fashioned with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, here's a step-by-step guide to making a smoked old fashioned:
- In a glass, stir together the simple syrup, water, and bitters.
- Add ice cubes to the glass.
- Pour in the bourbon.
- Gently stir the mixture to combine the flavors.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a maraschino cherry.
And there you have it – a perfectly crafted smoked old fashioned ready to be enjoyed.
Choosing the Best Bourbon
When it comes to selecting the bourbon for your smoked old fashioned, it's important to choose one with a strong, bold, and balanced flavor. While you don't necessarily need to splurge on a top-shelf bottle, it's best to avoid using anything you wouldn't enjoy sipping on its own.
Community Tips and Praise
The smoked old fashioned has gained a loyal following among cocktail enthusiasts. Here are a few tips and praises from the Allrecipes community:
- Todd Marsh: my favorite method is to use a sugar cube and pour a little bitters and juice from the maraschino cherries jar over it before crushing it along the bottom of the glass.
- Laura Turley Francis: amazing drink and my go-to choice. if don draper loves them, why can't you?
- Nannajoanna: excellent and classic. it really makes a difference when it's made from scratch. my only substitution: i used rye whiskey instead of bourbon.
These tips from the Allrecipes community can help you elevate your smoked old fashioned to new heights.
In Conclusion
The smoked old fashioned is a timeless cocktail that never fails to impress. With its perfect balance of flavors and the added touch of smokiness, it's a drink that will transport you to a bygone era. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a perfectly crafted smoked old fashioned.
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