The Old Fashioned is a classic and timeless cocktail known for its simplicity and bold flavors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft the perfect Old Fashioned:
Ingredients:
– 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey
– 1 sugar cube or 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar
– 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Orange peel, for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Start by placing the sugar cube (or granulated sugar) at the bottom of an Old Fashioned glass. If using a sugar cube, add a few drops of water to help dissolve it.
- Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters directly onto the sugar cube. The bitters add depth of flavor and balance to the cocktail.
- Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently muddle the sugar and bitters until they dissolve and form a syrup-like consistency.
- Add a large ice cube or a few regular ice cubes to the glass. The large ice cube melts slower and dilutes the cocktail at a slower pace.
- Pour in 2 ounces (60 ml) of bourbon or rye whiskey. Choose a high-quality whiskey that suits your taste preferences. Bourbon tends to be sweeter, while rye whiskey has a spicier flavor profile.
- Stir the mixture gently for about 20-30 seconds to combine the ingredients and chill the cocktail. Avoid stirring vigorously to prevent excessive dilution.
- Take an orange peel and express the oils over the drink by twisting it over the glass. This releases the citrusy aroma of the orange oils.
- Rub the orange peel along the rim of the glass to transfer some of the citrus oils. Then, place the orange peel into the glass as a garnish.
- Optionally, you can further personalize the Old Fashioned by including a maraschino cherry or a few drops of cherry syrup as an additional garnish.
- Sip and savor your perfectly crafted Old Fashioned. Adjust the sweetness or intensity by adding more sugar or bitters according to your taste.
With these simple steps, you can enjoy a classic and timeless Old Fashioned cocktail at home.