Infusing whiskey with smoke can add a unique and complex flavor profile to your drink. It's a technique that has gained popularity in recent years, as it adds a touch of smokiness reminiscent of a campfire or a well-aged scotch. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to infuse whiskey with smoke:
1. Gather your ingredients and equipment: You'll need a decanter or a large glass pitcher, bourbon (or any whiskey of your choice), simple syrup, bitters, and a smoking gun. The smoking gun is a handheld device that generates smoke, often used in professional kitchens for adding smoky flavors.
2. Start by preparing the decanter: Make sure it's clean and dry, as any residual flavors or moisture can interfere with the smoke infusion process. You want to ensure that the smoke is the primary flavor you're adding.
3. Measure out the ingredients: Depending on the size of your decanter or pitcher, you'll need to adjust the quantities accordingly. Generally, a good starting point is 2 parts bourbon, 1 part simple syrup, and a few dashes of bitters. Feel free to experiment with the ratios to suit your taste preferences.
4. Add the bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters to the decanter or pitcher. Mix them gently using a cocktail spoon or a stirring rod to combine the flavors.
5. Prepare the smoking gun: Most smoking guns come with a small chamber where you can place wood chips or other smoking materials. Popular choices for wood chips include applewood, hickory, or cherry. Experiment with different types to find the flavor profile you enjoy the most.
6. Ignite the smoking gun: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to light the wood chips and generate smoke. Keep in mind that the smoking gun produces a small flame, so be cautious and work in a well-ventilated area.
7. Infuse the decanter with smoke: Once the smoking gun is producing smoke, place the hose or tube into the decanter or pitcher, ensuring that the smoke is trapped inside. You can seal the container with a piece of saran wrap or a lid to help retain the smoke.
8. Infusion time: The infusion time can vary depending on your preference for smokiness. Start with 1-2 minutes and taste the whiskey periodically to check if the desired level of smokiness has been achieved. Remember, the longer you infuse, the stronger the smoky flavor will be.
9. Remove the smoke and serve: Once you're satisfied with the level of smoke infusion, remove the smoking gun and discard the saran wrap or lid. Give the whiskey a gentle stir to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed. You can now serve the smoky infused whiskey neat, on the rocks, or use it as a base for cocktails.
Remember, smoke infusion can be a personal preference, so feel free to experiment with different wood chips, infusion times, and ratios to find the perfect balance for your taste. Enjoy the smoky complexity of your infused whiskey and savor the unique flavors it brings to your drinking experience.