One drink that is closely associated with jazz is the Sazerac. This classic cocktail has deep roots in New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz, and has become the official cocktail of the city. The Sazerac is a unique blend of flavors, combining cognac or whiskey with absinthe to create a drink that is rich, complex, and full of character.
To make a Sazerac, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 ounces of cognac or rye whiskey
– 1 sugar cube or 1/2 teaspoon of sugar
– 3 dashes of Peychaud's Bitters
– A few dashes of absinthe
– Lemon peel, for garnish
Now, let's dive into the process of making this iconic cocktail step by step.
1. Start by chilling an old-fashioned glass. Fill it with ice and set it aside to chill while you prepare the rest of the drink.
2. In a separate mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with the Peychaud's Bitters until the sugar is dissolved. If you don't have a sugar cube, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of sugar instead. The bitters add a unique herbal flavor to the drink, which is a signature characteristic of the Sazerac.
3. Add the cognac or rye whiskey to the mixing glass. Traditionally, cognac is the spirit of choice for a Sazerac, but rye whiskey is also commonly used. Both options bring their own distinct qualities to the cocktail, so feel free to experiment and see which one you prefer.
4. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the mixture well. The purpose of stirring is to chill the drink and properly mix the flavors together. Stirring also helps to dilute the cocktail slightly, which can enhance the overall taste.
5. Discard the ice from the chilled old-fashioned glass. Add a few dashes of absinthe to the glass, then swirl it around to coat the inside. This step is crucial, as it adds a subtle layer of absinthe flavor to the cocktail and contributes to the unique character of the Sazerac.
6. Strain the mixture from the mixing glass into the absinthe-coated old-fashioned glass. The absinthe-coated glass helps to impart the distinct aroma and flavor of absinthe throughout the drink.
7. garnish your Sazerac with a lemon peel. Twist the peel over the glass to release its oils, then drop it into the drink. The oils from the lemon peel add a refreshing and aromatic element to the cocktail, complementing the other flavors beautifully.
Now, sit back, sip on your Sazerac, and let the smooth jazz tunes transport you to the lively streets of New Orleans. Cheers!