Smoked old fashioned recipe – Step into the realm of mixology and discover the art of crafting the exquisite Smoked Old Fashioned. This classic cocktail, infused with a captivating smoky essence, has captivated taste buds for generations. Join us as we delve into the secrets of this timeless libation, exploring its ingredients, smoking techniques, and captivating flavor profile.
Smoked Old Fashioned Ingredients
The smoked old fashioned is a variation on the classic old fashioned cocktail, with the addition of smoked ingredients that impart a unique flavor profile. The primary ingredients in a smoked old fashioned include:
- Bourbon whiskey
- Orange bitters
- Sugar
- Water
- Smoke
The choice of bourbon whiskey is important, as it will contribute to the overall flavor of the cocktail. A high-quality bourbon with a robust flavor profile will stand up to the smokiness of the other ingredients. Orange bitters add a touch of citrus and complexity, while sugar balances out the bitterness of the bitters and whiskey.
Water is used to dilute the cocktail and make it more palatable. The smoke is the key ingredient that sets the smoked old fashioned apart from the classic old fashioned. It can be added using a variety of methods, such as smoking the ice, the glass, or the ingredients themselves.
Bourbon Whiskey
The bourbon whiskey used in a smoked old fashioned should be of high quality, with a robust flavor profile. Some good choices include:
- Russell’s Reserve 10-Year Bourbon
- Elijah Craig Barrel Proof
- Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
These bourbons have a high proof and a rich, full flavor that will stand up to the smokiness of the other ingredients.
Orange Bitters
Orange bitters are an essential ingredient in a smoked old fashioned, as they add a touch of citrus and complexity. Some good choices include:
- Angostura Orange Bitters
- Fee Brothers Orange Bitters
- Regan’s Orange Bitters
These bitters are all made with a blend of orange peel, spices, and herbs, and they will add a subtle citrus flavor to the cocktail.
Sugar
Sugar is used to balance out the bitterness of the bitters and whiskey. It can be added in the form of simple syrup, granulated sugar, or brown sugar. Simple syrup is the easiest to use, and it can be made by dissolving equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over low heat.
Granulated sugar can be added directly to the glass, and it will dissolve as the cocktail is stirred. Brown sugar will add a slightly caramelized flavor to the cocktail.
Water
Water is used to dilute the cocktail and make it more palatable. It should be added in small amounts, until the desired strength is reached. Too much water will make the cocktail too weak, while too little water will make it too strong.
Smoke
The smoke is the key ingredient that sets the smoked old fashioned apart from the classic old fashioned. It can be added using a variety of methods, such as:
- Smoking the ice
- Smoking the glass
- Smoking the ingredients
Smoking the ice is the most common method, and it can be done using a smoke gun or a smoker box. To smoke the ice, place the ice in a container and seal it. Then, use a smoke gun or smoker box to fill the container with smoke.
Let the smoke infuse the ice for a few minutes, then remove the ice from the container and use it to make the cocktail.
Smoking the glass is another popular method, and it can be done using a smoke gun or a smoking tray. To smoke the glass, place the glass upside down on a smoking tray or in a smoke gun. Then, fill the tray or gun with smoke and let it infuse the glass for a few minutes.
Once the glass is smoked, flip it over and make the cocktail.
Smoking the ingredients is a less common method, but it can add a more intense smoky flavor to the cocktail. To smoke the ingredients, place them in a container and seal it. Then, use a smoke gun or smoker box to fill the container with smoke.
Let the smoke infuse the ingredients for a few minutes, then remove the ingredients from the container and use them to make the cocktail.
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Smoking Techniques
Smoking an old fashioned adds a unique and complex flavor to the classic cocktail. There are several different methods for smoking an old fashioned, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
Cold Smoking
Cold smoking involves exposing the cocktail to smoke at a low temperature, typically between 80 and 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This method produces a subtle smoke flavor that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients in the cocktail. To cold smoke an old fashioned, you will need a smoking gun or a purpose-built smoking chamber.
Hot Smoking, Smoked old fashioned recipe
Hot smoking involves exposing the cocktail to smoke at a higher temperature, typically between 120 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit. This method produces a more intense smoke flavor that can stand up to the other ingredients in the cocktail. To hot smoke an old fashioned, you will need a smoking gun or a charcoal smoker.
Tips for Achieving the Optimal Smoke Flavor
When smoking an old fashioned, there are a few tips you can follow to achieve the optimal smoke flavor:
- Use a high-quality smoking wood. The type of wood you use will have a significant impact on the flavor of the smoke.
- Don’t oversmoke the cocktail. A little smoke goes a long way. If you oversmoke the cocktail, it will become bitter and unpleasant.
- Experiment with different smoking times. The amount of time you smoke the cocktail will affect the intensity of the smoke flavor.
Glassware and Presentation: Smoked Old Fashioned Recipe
The traditional glassware for serving a smoked old fashioned is a rocks glass. This type of glass is short and wide, with a heavy bottom that helps to keep the drink cold. Rocks glasses are also commonly used for serving other cocktails, such as the Manhattan and the Negroni.
In addition to the traditional rocks glass, there are a number of other creative ways to serve a smoked old fashioned. Some bartenders like to use a snifter glass, which is a large, balloon-shaped glass that helps to concentrate the aromas of the drink.
Others prefer to use a coupe glass, which is a shallow, saucer-shaped glass that gives the drink a more elegant look.
Garnish
The most common garnish for a smoked old fashioned is an orange peel. The peel is expressed over the drink, releasing its citrus oils and adding a touch of sweetness. Other popular garnishes include a cherry, a lemon twist, or a cinnamon stick.
Presentation
When presenting a smoked old fashioned, it is important to pay attention to the details. The drink should be served in a clean glass, and the garnish should be placed carefully. The drink should also be served at the proper temperature, which is typically between 40 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
By following these tips, you can create a smoked old fashioned that is both delicious and visually appealing.
Flavor Profile and Variations
A smoked old fashioned is characterized by its rich, smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the bourbon and the bitterness of the bitters. The smokiness adds a depth and complexity to the drink that makes it a unique and unforgettable experience.
The type of wood used for smoking can significantly affect the flavor of the drink. Hickory wood imparts a strong, bacon-like flavor, while oak wood provides a more subtle, earthy flavor. Applewood and cherrywood are also popular choices, each imparting its own unique character.
Smoking Techniques
There are two main techniques for smoking an old fashioned: cold smoking and hot smoking. Cold smoking is done at a low temperature, typically around 80-100°F (27-38°C), for several hours. This method produces a more subtle smoky flavor that allows the other flavors of the drink to shine through.
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Hot smoking is done at a higher temperature, typically around 250-300°F (121-149°C), for a shorter period of time. This method produces a more intense smoky flavor that can overwhelm the other flavors of the drink.
Variations
In addition to the classic recipe, there are many variations on the smoked old fashioned that can be explored. Some popular variations include:
- Fruit infusions:Adding fruit to the smoking process can infuse the drink with additional flavors. Popular fruits to use include oranges, cherries, and apples.
- Barrel-aged options:Aging the smoked old fashioned in a barrel can add even more depth and complexity to the flavor. Popular barrels to use include oak, bourbon, and sherry barrels.
History and Origin
The smoked old fashioned emerged as a modern twist on the classic cocktail, tracing its roots to the mid-20th century. Its origins lie in the resurgence of interest in traditional cocktails and the growing popularity of smoke-infused flavors in culinary arts.
Bartenders began experimenting with adding a smoky element to the old fashioned, initially using hickory or mesquite wood chips to infuse the whiskey with a subtle smokiness. Over time, more sophisticated smoking techniques were developed, such as using a smoking gun or infusing the whiskey with smoke from burning aromatic woods like applewood or cherrywood.
Influence of Different Cultures and Bartenders
The smoked old fashioned has been influenced by various cultures and bartenders worldwide. In the United States, it gained popularity in the 1990s and early 2000s as part of the craft cocktail movement. Bartenders in New York City, Los Angeles, and other major cities experimented with different smoking techniques and ingredients, leading to a proliferation of variations on the original recipe.
Internationally, the smoked old fashioned has been embraced by bartenders in Europe, Asia, and South America. Each region has added its own unique touches, such as using local woods for smoking or incorporating flavors inspired by local cuisine.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Crafting a tantalizing smoked old fashioned requires meticulous attention to detail and precise execution. Here’s a comprehensive guide to lead you through the process:
Ingredients
- 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1/4 ounce simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel, for garnish
Smoking the Glass
- Fill a rocks glass with ice and set aside.
- Place a smoking gun filled with wood chips or tea leaves on one side of the glass.
- Light the wood chips or tea leaves and gently blow smoke into the glass.
- Once the glass is filled with smoke, remove the smoking gun and discard the ice.
Mixing the Cocktail
- Add the bourbon or rye whiskey, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters to the smoked glass.
- Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
- Add a large ice cube to the glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel twist.
Variations
Experiment with different wood chips or tea leaves for a unique smoking experience. Popular choices include hickory, applewood, or lapsang souchong tea leaves.
Closure
As you master the art of the Smoked Old Fashioned, you will not only impress your guests but also embark on a journey of culinary exploration. Experiment with different woods and techniques, discover the nuances of flavor, and create your own unique variations.
Remember, the perfect Smoked Old Fashioned is a symphony of flavors that lingers on the palate, leaving an unforgettable impression.
