How To Make Bitters For Old Fashioned

Ever wondered what makes an Old Fashioned the ultimate cocktail? The secret's in the bitters, my friend! Let's dive into the fun world of DIY bitters, where you'll find history, quirkiness, and a whole lot of flavor.

What's the Deal with Bitters?

Bitters are like the spice rack of the cocktail world. They've been around since the 1800s, when doctors would prescribe them as medicine. Talk about a bitter pill to swallow, huh? But don't worry, we're not drinking medicine here. We're making magic!

Bitters are essentially flavored extracts made from botanicals like roots, barks, and spices. They're super concentrated, so a little goes a long way. And that little goes a long way in adding depth and complexity to your drinks.

Let's Get Started!

Ready to roll up your sleeves and create some magic? Here's a simple recipe for Orange Bitters, perfect for your Old Fashioned. It's like a little taste of sunshine in your glass!

What You'll Need:

• Peel of 2 oranges (organic if possible)
• 1 tbsp dried gentian root
• 1 tbsp dried cinchona bark
• 1/2 tsp whole allspice berries
• 1/2 tsp whole black peppercorns
• 1/2 tsp whole coriander seeds
• 1 cup high-proof alcohol (like Everclear or vodka)
• 1 cup filtered water
• 1/4 cup honey or simple syrup

Now, Let's Get Cooking!

First things first, give your orange peels a good scrub. We want all that delicious oil, none of the dirt. Then, use a vegetable peeler to remove the zest in long strips. Try not to get any of the white pith, it's bitter and we're not about that life.

Next, toss your orange peels and the rest of your ingredients into a jar. Pour in your alcohol, give it a good shake, and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2 weeks. Shake it daily to help things along.

After 2 weeks, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Press down on the solids to get every last drop of goodness out. Then, combine your liquid gold with the water and honey or simple syrup. Give it a good stir until the sweetener dissolves.

Now, taste your bitters. If it's too strong, add more water. If it's too weak, let it sit out for a few days to evaporate some of the alcohol. Once you're happy with the flavor, bottle it up and store it in a cool, dark place. It'll keep for about a year.

The Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail - Flour Child

Time to Make an Old Fashioned!

Now that you've got your homemade bitters, it's time to make a killer Old Fashioned. Here's a simple recipe:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 2 dashes of your homemade orange bitters
• 1 sugar cube or 1/2 oz simple syrup
• Ice
• Orange peel for garnish

In an Old Fashioned glass, muddle the sugar cube (or pour in the simple syrup) with a dash or two of bitters. Add your whiskey and a few cubes of ice. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the drink is well-chilled. Express the oil from the orange peel over the drink, then drop the peel in for garnish.

And there you have it! A delicious, homemade Old Fashioned. Cheers to your newfound bitters-making skills!

But wait, there's more! Bitters aren't just for cocktails. They can add a kick to all sorts of dishes. Sprinkle some on your next steak, add a dash to your chocolate cake, or use them in place of salt in your Bloody Mary. The possibilities are endless!

So go forth, experiment, and have fun! And remember, the best bitters are the ones you make with a smile. Cheers!