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Muddle — Muddle Sugar and Bitters

Beginner15 mins

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Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe: A Classic Guide · Step 1 of 4

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In this video

Use a bar spoon to muddle the sugar cube until it dissolves and combines with the bitters and soda water.

Goal: Dissolve sugar and mix ingredients

Used in this video

  • Bar Spoon (shape: Long and thin, material: Metal, size: Medium, observableFunction: Muddling, distinctiveFeatures: Spiral handle)Muddling and mixing
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FAQs

Beyond the ingredients, what essential bar tools do I need to make an Old Fashioned?

You'll need a sturdy rocks glass for muddling, a muddler to crush the sugar and infuse bitters, and a bar spoon for gentle stirring. A jigger or measuring tool is also helpful for precise whiskey pours, although not strictly necessary.

The recipe specifies bourbon; can I use other types of whiskey or spirits for an Old Fashioned?

While bourbon is traditional, rye whiskey is also a classic choice, offering a spicier profile. You can absolutely experiment with other aged spirits like brandy or even aged rum for a unique twist, but it will subtly change the drink's character.

How do I prevent my Old Fashioned from becoming too diluted or watery?

Use large, dense ice cubes that melt slowly, and stir just enough to chill the drink thoroughly, typically 30-60 seconds. Over-stirring with small ice or using too much ice can lead to excessive dilution, so pay attention to the drink's temperature rather than just the time.

What's the best way to adjust the sweetness and bitterness to my taste?

Start with one sugar cube or a quarter ounce of simple syrup, and 2-3 dashes of bitters. Taste after stirring, then add more sugar or bitters in small increments if desired. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away.

Transcript
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we're gonna garnish it we're gonna take the peel of an orange okay we're going to take a peel of a lemon we express the oils of the orange also express the oils of the lemon when you have two peels like this that's called having bunny ears so here you have

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