The best fat-wash for rum, in my opinion, is one that combines the richness of bacon fat with the smoothness of rum. This combination may sound unusual, but trust me, it creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
To start, you'll need to render the fat from bacon. This process involves cooking the bacon until the fat is fully melted and separated from the meat. I prefer using thick-cut bacon for this fat-wash, as it tends to have a higher fat content. Once the fat is rendered, you'll want to strain it to remove any impurities or solid bits.
Next, you'll need a high-quality rum. I recommend using a dark, aged rum with complex flavors. The smoky notes from the bacon fat will complement the richness of the rum beautifully. Pour the rum into a glass jar or container that has a tight-fitting lid.
Now comes the fun part. Add the rendered bacon fat to the rum, using a ratio of about 1 ounce of fat per 750 ml bottle of rum. Close the lid tightly and give it a good shake to ensure the fat is evenly distributed throughout the liquid. Place the jar in the refrigerator and let it sit for at least 24 hours, but preferably up to a week.
During this time, the flavors of the bacon fat will infuse into the rum, creating a unique taste experience. The fat will naturally separate from the rum, forming a solid layer on top. Don't worry, this is completely normal. When you're ready to proceed, carefully strain the infused rum through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solid fat.
The resulting rum will have a distinct smoky aroma and a savory, bacon-like taste that lingers on the palate. It's a truly unique flavor profile that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for cocktails. I personally love using this bacon fat-washed rum in an Old Fashioned, where the smoky notes really shine through.
Remember, fat-washing rum is a time-consuming process, but the end result is well worth the wait. The combination of bacon fat and rum may seem unconventional, but it's a delightful pairing that will surprise and impress your taste buds. So go ahead, give it a try and indulge in the rich, savory goodness of a bacon fat-washed rum. Cheers!