To use Old Fashioned stirrings mix, it's important to follow a few key steps to ensure you achieve the perfect cocktail every time. Here's a detailed guide on how to use this mix to create a delicious Old Fashioned:
1. Gather your ingredients: Apart from the Old Fashioned stirrings mix, you'll also need your choice of whiskey or bourbon, ice, and garnishes like an orange peel or cherry.
2. Measure the ingredients: Start by measuring out the desired amount of Old Fashioned stirrings mix. The instructions on the bottle typically recommend a specific ratio, but you can adjust it to your taste preferences.
3. Choose your glass: The traditional glass for an Old Fashioned is a short, wide tumbler. This type of glass allows you to muddle the ingredients properly and also provides enough room for ice and garnishes.
4. Muddle the mix: Put the desired amount of Old Fashioned stirrings mix into the glass and use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently crush any fruit or sugar in the mix. This step helps release the flavors and aromas.
5. Add ice: Fill the glass with ice, leaving enough room for the whiskey or bourbon. The ice will help chill the cocktail and dilute it slightly, so make sure you have enough ice to achieve the desired temperature and dilution.
6. Pour in the whiskey or bourbon: Measure out the desired amount of whiskey or bourbon and pour it into the glass over the ice. The amount of spirit will depend on your personal preference, but a standard Old Fashioned usually contains around 2 ounces of whiskey.
7. Stir gently: Using a long-handled bar spoon or any long spoon, gently stir the cocktail in a circular motion. Be mindful not to shake the glass, as shaking can introduce too much air and water, diluting the cocktail too quickly. Stirring allows for a smooth, velvety texture and ensures all the flavors are properly mixed.
8. Taste and adjust: Give the cocktail a taste and adjust the flavors if necessary. If you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add a splash of simple syrup or a sugar cube. If it's too sweet, you can add a touch of bitters to balance it out.
9. Garnish and serve: garnish your Old Fashioned with an orange peel or cherry. Express the oils from the orange peel by twisting it over the cocktail, then place it in the glass. This adds a lovely aromatic element to the drink. If you prefer, you can also muddle an orange slice or cherry in the glass before adding the other ingredients.
10. Enjoy responsibly: Sip and savor your perfectly crafted Old Fashioned. Take your time to appreciate the flavors and aromas and remember to drink responsibly.
Using Old Fashioned stirrings mix is a convenient way to achieve a well-balanced Old Fashioned cocktail. It provides a blend of essential ingredients, saving you time and effort in preparing each component individually. By following these steps and personalizing the drink to your taste, you can enjoy a classic and delicious Old Fashioned at home.