Often available at trendy bars with exorbitant price tags to match, the cocktail is something that can be easily enjoyed at home. There are hundreds of cocktail recipes available online for free so you have no excuse not to try your hand at what is relatively straightforward.
To help you on your way, we’ve going to cover a list of things that should assist you in the process of becoming a cocktail expert.
Assess the Balance
One way you could begin is by thinking back to the cocktails that you’ve enjoyed the most. Were they too sweet, too sour, or just right? Most cocktails will have a recognised recipe but there is no harm in deviating from this to find the sweet spot for your tastes.
Knowing what you like is important so we suggest frequenting a few bars and getting a feel for the different ingredients and mixers on offer.
Gather Your Ingredients
One of each popular type of spirit should be enough to get you started. You will at least want a bottle of Gin, Vodka, Whiskey and Rum. The brand isn’t too important but try and buy based on quality rather than price.
You will also need to buy a selection of mixers such as lemonade and cola as well as fruit juices. If you’re feeling adventurous you could also buy a few specialist items such as bitters and vermouth.
Purchase Your Equipment
If you don’t already have any cocktail shakers, strainers and glasses, you’ll have to buy some. They will be available from most large supermarkets but you can also buy online where you will find a better selection. Barwareandmore.com.au stock a large selection of cocktail making accessories but there are several more online based suppliers so do shop around. Delivery can often be made across Australia.
Cocktail Making Techniques
Rather than just pouring a selection of different ingredients into a glass, any good cocktail will have been made through a specific process. The most common ones include;
- Shaking – Any drink containing egg, cream or fruit juices will need to be shaken. These ingredients will be mixed and chill simultaneously with the inclusion of ice cubes. Insert the ingredients into a shaker and give them a good shake.
- Straining – Most cocktail shakers will come with an inbuilt strainer which is perfect for removing any unwanted pips or residue from a mixed drink. If a cocktail requires that it is to be shaken with crushed ice, it shouldn’t be strained.
- Stirring – Some cocktails will need to be stirred with a metal or glass rod to assist in mixing the ingredients. Stir gently and use whole ice cubes to prevent dilution.
- Layering – Some consider this to be the most advanced cocktail making technique. The purpose is to layer ingredients on top of one another, preventing them from mixing together. Place the back of a spoon against the side of a glass and pour each liquid in turn so it runs down the sides.
With these techniques, you’ll be well on your way to creating high class cocktails from the comfort of your home. Don’t be afraid to experiment and remember to have fun.
