Smoking an Old Fashioned: A Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing a Classic Cocktail

Introduction

An old fashioned is a classic cocktail composed of whiskey, bitters, sugar, and water. It has been around since the late 1800s, and its popularity has only grown in recent years. Making an old fashioned is relatively simple, but there are a few special steps you can take to make it even more flavorful. In this article, we’ll discuss the tools you need to make an old fashioned, provide a step-by-step guide to making one, explain how to select the right whiskey for your drink, offer tips and tricks for smoking an old fashioned, explore the history of the cocktail, and provide ideas for different types of old fashioneds and food pairings.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making an Old Fashioned

Making an old fashioned is easy, but there are a few key steps to follow to make sure your drink is perfect. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:

Gather the Ingredients

To make an old fashioned, you’ll need 2 ounces of whiskey, 1 teaspoon of simple syrup or 1 sugar cube, 2 to 3 dashes of Angostura bitters, and an orange peel for garnish. You’ll also need a mixing glass, a bar spoon, and ice cubes.

Prepare the Glass

Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes. Then, add the simple syrup or sugar cube and the Angostura bitters. Stir the mixture until the sugar cube or simple syrup is dissolved. Add a splash of club soda to add some effervescence to the drink, if desired.

Muddle the Ingredients

Using a muddler or a wooden spoon, gently muddle the orange peel in the mixing glass. This will release the essential oils from the orange peel and add a citrusy flavor to the drink.

Add Liquor and Ice

Add the whiskey to the mixing glass and stir with a bar spoon. Then, add more ice cubes to fill the glass. Stir the drink for about 10 seconds to ensure that all the ingredients are well-combined.

Stir and Garnish

Strain the drink into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice cubes. Twist the orange peel over the drink to release the essential oils, then use it as a garnish. Serve and enjoy!

How to Select the Right Whiskey for an Old Fashioned

When selecting a whiskey for your old fashioned, it’s important to consider both the flavors and aromas of the whiskey. According to a study by The Journal of Food Science, “The aroma of whiskey is a complex mixture of volatile compounds, which differs depending on the type of whiskey.” The study found that bourbons tend to have sweeter, spicier notes, while rye whiskeys tend to be more herbal and floral. Blended whiskeys are typically smoother and less intense than single-malt whiskeys. Ultimately, the choice of whiskey will depend on personal preference.

Tips and Tricks for Smoking an Old Fashioned

Adding a bit of smoke to your old fashioned can give it an extra layer of complexity. To infuse your drink with smoke, try using a smoker box. Fill the box with wood chips (such as hickory or mesquite), light it, and cover the top with aluminum foil. Place the smoker box near the glass while you prepare the drink so the smoke can infuse the ingredients. Alternatively, you can use a smoking gun to directly smoke the ingredients before adding them to the glass.

The History of the Old Fashioned Cocktail

The history of the old fashioned is long and complicated. The name “old fashioned” first appeared in print in 1806, though the exact origin of the name is still unknown. Over the years, the recipe for the drink has evolved; the original version was made with brandy, but whiskey eventually became the spirit of choice. The modern version of the old fashioned is credited to bartender Jerry Thomas, who published his version of the drink in his book “How to Mix Drinks” in 1862.

Different Types of Old Fashioneds

The classic old fashioned is just the beginning. There are many variations of the drink, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are some of the most popular variations:

Classic Old Fashioned

This is the classic version of the drink, made with whiskey, simple syrup or a sugar cube, Angostura bitters, and an orange peel.

Modern Old Fashioned

For a modern twist on the classic, try adding a splash of club soda or other flavored liqueur.

Tropical Old Fashioned

For a tropical twist, replace the sugar cube with honey and add a splash of pineapple juice.

Pairing Food with an Old Fashioned

An old fashioned pairs well with many different types of food. Sweet and sour dishes like pork chops or chicken wings work well with the sweet and bitter flavors of the drink. Salty foods, such as french fries or fried chicken, also go well with an old fashioned. For a spicier pairing, try spicy dishes like tacos or chili. Rich and creamy dishes, like macaroni and cheese, are also great options.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an old fashioned is a classic cocktail made with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and water. Making an old fashioned is relatively simple, but there are a few steps to follow to ensure that your drink is perfect. You should also consider the flavors and aromas of the whiskey when selecting one for your drink. Additionally, you can add a smoky flavor to your old fashioned by using a smoker box or a smoking gun. Finally, there are many variations of the old fashioned, and it pairs well with a variety of dishes.