Old Fashioned Recipe

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that’s simple yet sophisticated. With just a few quality ingredients and a little technique, you can create a delicious Old Fashioned at home. Here’s a detailed, beginner-friendly guide to get you started.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: Choose a quality brand for the best flavor.
• 1 Sugar Cube or 1/2 tsp Sugar: Traditionally, a sugar cube is used.
• 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters: Essential for the cocktail’s signature flavor.
• Orange Peel: For garnish and a hint of citrus.
• Ice: Preferably a large ice cube or ice sphere.
• Water: A splash, if needed, to help dissolve the sugar.

Equipment:

• Old Fashioned Glass: Also known as a rocks glass.
• Muddler: For crushing the sugar and bitters.
• Bar Spoon: For stirring the cocktail.
• Peeler or Knife: To prepare the orange peel.
• Jigger: For measuring ingredients.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Glass:
   • Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass.
   • Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters directly onto the sugar cube.
   • If using granulated sugar, measure out 1/2 tsp and add the bitters to it.
2. Muddle the Ingredients:
   • Use a muddler to crush the sugar and bitters together until the sugar is mostly dissolved. This step helps to release the flavors and aromas from the bitters.
   • If the sugar isn’t dissolving well, add a splash of water to help.
3. Add Whiskey:
   • Measure out 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey using a jigger.
   • Pour the whiskey into the glass over the muddled sugar and bitters mixture.
4. Stir:
   • Add a large ice cube or ice sphere to the glass. This chills the drink without diluting it too quickly.
   • Use a bar spoon to stir the mixture gently for about 20-30 seconds. This ensures that the flavors blend well and the drink is properly chilled.
5. Garnish:
   • Take an orange peel and express the oils over the drink by holding it over the glass and giving it a good twist. This releases the aromatic oils from the peel.
   • Rub the peel around the rim of the glass, then drop it into the drink as a garnish.
6. Enjoy:
   • Take a moment to appreciate your beautifully crafted Old Fashioned.
   • Sip and savor the balanced flavors of whiskey, sugar, and bitters.

Tips for Success:

• Quality Ingredients: Use good quality whiskey and fresh ingredients for the best results.
• Proper Tools: A muddler, bar spoon, and jigger are essential for making an Old Fashioned correctly.
• Ice Matters: A large ice cube or ice sphere is ideal because it melts slowly, keeping your drink chilled without watering it down.
• Experiment: Once you’re comfortable with the classic recipe, try experimenting with different types of bitters or adding a cherry garnish for a personal twist.

By following these detailed steps, you’ll be able to make a perfect Old Fashioned every time, impressing your friends and enjoying a timeless cocktail. Cheers to your new bartending skills!