Mixing a cocktail from scratch is great for so many reasons you get to flex your mixology skills, but you also get to flex your experimental ones. You can make drinks at home, just like the professionals, no matter if you are having guests or just treating yourself with the best cocktail set. Yet, for the newbies, it can look intimidating. What tools are essential? How do you use them? Where should you start?
But with this guide to cocktail sets, we will get you breaking it down the way you need to be. It is more straightforward than you would believe, from knowing the most important utensils to whipping up simple recipes. Don’t panic mixing cocktails; it is just a process, exploring combinations, and it is all good fun! And, before long, you will be mixing like a pro and making beverages that will amaze your friends and family!
What is a Cocktail Set?
A cocktail set is set of essential tools for drinks preparation, for example, all types of cocktails, and mocktails. Now, these sets can help make the process simple so that anyone can make their own drinks from home. A bar tool set has 5 main tools: a shaker, a strainer, a muddler, a jigger, and a bar spoon and each tool is used for a different process in mixology.
Shaker
The shaker is probably the most recognizable tool from any cocktail set. Only the shaker is specifically used to shake cocktails that require specific ingredients to mix and chill thoroughly, such as juices, syrups, or egg whites the list goes on. The mixing action guarantees the ingredient is combined and you get the necessary texture and flavor to this beverage.
Strainer
Where the strainer comes into play is after you shake to separate the liquid from solids like ice or herbs for a smooth, clean drink. This is an important step when it comes to a smooth looking finish.
Muddler
A tool used to crush or mash elements can be used for fruits, herbs, and/or spices to enhance the effect of soda and ingredient flavors. This is especially vital in cocktails such as mojitos or old fashioneds, where fresh ingredients take center stage.
Jigger
The jigger is essentially a precision measuring tool for ingredients. So whether you’re pouring precisely one ounce of spirit or some less precise amount of syrup, this tool levels all of the ingredients and yields a proper drink.
Bar Spoon
The long, tapered bar spoon is an essential tool for stirring cocktails that need a gentle swirl, rather than a shake. The technique is commonly used in cocktails such as martinis, which are best when mixed without too much dilution.
Become a home mixologist by using these simple tools as a guide, and you’ll be on your way to mixing drinks with the same precision and technique used by professionals.
Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve got your cocktail set ready, it’s time to make your first drink. Follow these simple steps for a delicious result:
Setting Up Your Cocktail Station
Organize your tools, glassware, ice, mixers, and garnishes in a clean and spacious area. An organized station makes mixing easier and adds a professional touch.
Shaking with the Shaker
Fill your shaker halfway with ice, add your ingredients, close the shaker, and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds. The outside of the shaker should feel cold when your drink is properly shaken.
Straining for Smoothness
Place the strainer over the shaker and pour the contents through to remove ice and solids, ensuring a smooth cocktail.
Precision Pouring with the Jigger
Use the jigger to measure your ingredients accurately. This ensures your drink has the right balance of flavors.
Muddling for Flavor
Gently press fruits or herbs with the muddler to release their flavors without over crushing them.
Stirring with the Bar Spoon
For stirred drinks, gently mix the ingredients with the bar spoon for 20-30 seconds to blend them smoothly.
Essential Cocktail Recipes to Get You Started
With all the tools and techniques now in your arsenal, let’s get to mixing up some cocktails! Simply rim a glass with lime juice and salt, and then shake 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, and 1 oz orange liqueur (triple sec) with ice in a shaker for a Classic Margarita. Strain into the glass and garnish with a wedge of lime. Shake, shake, shake.
Mojito: Muddle 6,8 mint leaves with 2 tsp of sugar in a glass. Add 2 oz of white rum, 1 oz of lime juice, and ice. Top with soda water, stir, and garnish with a sprig of mint. Finally, stir a Cosmopolitan by shaking 1 1/2 oz vodka, 1 oz triple sec, 1/2 pour cranberry juice, and 1/4 oz lime juice in ice. QUICK, SIMPLE, AND LITERALLY A BREEZE Shake and strain into a martini glass, garnish with a lime twist or cranberry on a toothpick
Tips for Beginners
Which brings us to practice, as is the case with any new skill. Below are some ways to polish your skills in making cocktails:
Experiment with Flavors
Be daring, try the different ingredients. Use honey instead of simple syrup or flavored liqueurs for a bit of a twist. The possibilities are endless.
Do Not Be Overwhelmed by Multi-sensory Presentation
Garnishes serve more than their attractive appearance; they are a means of experience some added flavor and aroma to your beverage. With the use of fruits, herbs or even edible flowers, Learn to use these to take your cocktails to the next level.
Balance Your Cocktails
Too much of a good thing is never a good thing. Not too strong, not too sweet. When it comes to adding seasoning, it is better to do so along the way because then you can always increase but you cannot decrease.
Have a neat Organization
Ensure that your tools and using ingredients are organized for working seamlessly. Too much mess on your workspace can pollute your efforts and make the process not pleasurable which is not an option.
Study from cocktail videos or classes. Make them or take them. You drink is only as good as your knowledge working for you.
Conclusion
Great cocktail making is a pursuit well worth pursuing the opportunity to discover limitless flavor combinations, techniques and creativity makes cocktail making feel like an art form. Couple it with the right cocktail making set (and a lil practice) and before you know it, you’ll be mixing drinks that will put even the best bars to shame. The biggest secret to being a good bartender is just to keep experimenting, learning, and most importantly, having fun.
Enjoy the journey, enjoy each piece, and feel free to put your spin on it. So pull out your cocktail set, start shaking and enjoy the playful art of mixology. Happy bartending at home, and good luck.
