How To Smoke Cocktails At Home: Tools, Tips & Tricks
Smoked cocktails have swept over the world of mixology, adding a distinctive and savory touch to classic cocktails. If you've ever wanted to duplicate this enthralling experience at home, you've come to the correct spot. Smoking cocktails at home is simpler than you may think, and with the correct tools, ideas, and methods, you can take your mixology to the next level. In this article, we'll walk you through the entire process on how to smoke cocktails, from the necessary equipment to professional advice and unique ideas.
Essential Tools
- Kitchen Torch
The cornerstone of smoking cocktails. Invest in a quality kitchen torch to achieve the perfect smoky flavor. Mixologist Lee Noble recommends this as the most invaluable tool for the smoking process.
- Smoking Cloche or Smoking Box
Consider investing in a smoke box, such as our Smoke Box. This versatile tool not only excels at infusing smoky goodness into irregularly sized glasses (handling up to four at once), but it also doubles as a charcuterie smoker. With this smoke box, you can elevate your culinary endeavors by smoking meats, cheeses, fruits, hummus, and more. It's a must-have addition for both cocktail enthusiasts and food aficionados, enhancing your ability to craft exceptional smoked cocktails and gourmet smoked dishes.
Choosing the Right Spirits
Not all spirits are created equal when it comes to smoking cocktails. Some spirits harmonize beautifully with the smoky essence, while others may be overwhelmed. Here's a breakdown of spirits suited for the smoking process:
- Beginner Spirits
If you're new to smoking cocktails, start with spirits that already possess robust flavors. Bourbon and rum are excellent choices as they serve as a strong foundation for your smoked concoctions. Additionally, aged rum, whiskey, and certain aged tequilas, which acquire their smokiness from wood barrels, offer a delightful woodiness that complements the smoke.
- Advanced Spirits
For Scotch or mezcal enthusiasts, you need not be excluded from the smoking trend. While these spirits have inherent smokiness, pairing them with delicate wood or spices can create unique and nuanced flavors.
Smoking Other Ingredients
Beyond the spirit itself, mixers and ingredients play a pivotal role in crafting a balanced smoked cocktail. Think outside the box and draw inspiration from grilling and summertime flavors to develop your smoked cocktail repertoire.
Smoking Your First Cocktail
With your equipment and spirit selection in place, it's time to embark on your smoking cocktail journey. Here's a step-by-step guide to smoking your first cocktail:
- Smoke a Glass
To enhance your cocktail smoker experience, begin with a chilled glass or a glass with a small amount of ice for a refreshing twist. Skip the step of wetting the glass and instead, place the cocktail smoker directly on top of the glass to infuse it with that delightful smoky flavor. This efficient method simplifies the process, allowing you to focus on preparing your cocktail on the side if you prefer.
- Prepare Your Cocktail
Mix your cocktail in a shaker or mixing glass.
- Pour and Enjoy
Pour your cocktail into the smoked glass, and it's ready to savor.
Experiment and Have Fun
The beauty of smoking cocktails lies in the freedom to experiment. There are no strict rules, and your only limitation is your imagination. Let your creativity run wild as you explore different spirits and flavors. Remember, the goal is to have fun and discover unique taste combinations.
Smoking cocktails at home opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to customize your drinks according to your taste preferences. Armed with the right tools, spirits, and techniques, you're ready to embark on a smoky mixology adventure. So, gather your ingredients, ignite your creativity, and let the smoke transform your cocktails into unforgettable masterpieces. Cheers to your new smoking cocktail expertise!