Whether you're an aspiring mixologist or just looking to elevate your home entertainment game, having the right tools can make all the difference. Say goodbye to mediocre margaritas and flat sours. It's time to raise the bar, literally, in your own home. Here are the top 5-ish essential tools that will turn your kitchen into a cocktail haven.
1. Shaker Set: Shake Things Up
A good cocktail shaker set is the heart and soul of any home bar. The main styles of cocktail shakers include the Boston shaker consisting of two separate metal or glass cups, this is arguably the choice of most professional bartenders and my personal favourite, the Cobbler shaker which has a built-in strainer is the go to shaker used in Japan (psst the cap can double as a measuring device), and the French shaker which is a two-piece shaker with a larger bottom tin and a smaller top tin. Each style has its own advantages and is preferred based on the bartender’s personal technique and preference. With a quality shaker set, you'll be crafting margaritas, daiquiris, and other classic concoctions like a seasoned pro. Just make sure its sealed tight, or you may a have a MESS-arita on your hands...(If you stop reading now I get it)
2. Jigger: Measure Twice, Pour Once
Precision is key when mixing drinks. That's where the jigger comes into play. It's the bartender's secret weapon for ensuring your cocktails pack the perfect punch. Wether its a bell, Japanese, or single basin, a jigger will make sure you're not overdoing it on the gin or underselling the vermouth. It's the Robin to your shaker's Batman.
3. Muddler: Get Muddled Up
Mojitos and Old Fashioneds, here we come! A muddler is your go-to gadget for gently crushing herbs, fruits, and sugar cubes to release their delightful flavors. It's like a tiny, hand-held mashing machine for cocktails, and it's essential for concocting those refreshing and aromatic libations that everyone loves.
4. Strainer: Keep it Smooth
Nobody likes a cocktail with chunks of ice or muddled mint leaves. That's where the strainer comes to the rescue. It's the gatekeeper of your home bar, ensuring that only the smooth, perfectly mixed liquid makes its way into your glass. Say goodbye to unwanted lumps in your libations!
5. Citrus Juicer: Squeeze of the Day
Freshly squeezed citrus juice takes your cocktails to a whole new level. Say goodbye to the pre-packaged stuff; it's time to invest in a citrus juicer. Whether it's limes for margaritas or lemons for your whiskey sours, this tool will guarantee that your drinks are zesty, bright, and bursting with flavor.
The Ish. A bar spoon and stirring glass
Honestly I almost didnt add these because really those extra chopsticks from that family sized order of chinese food you got during the covid lockdown sads and the bottom (big) half of your shaker can acheive basically all the same tasks, that said if your practicing because you want to get into the industry or you just wanna look extra fancy a nice spoon and stirring glass are a solid edition to the kit.
Bonus Tool: Ice Cube Trays – Cool as Ice
Okay, so we couldn't resist sneaking this one in. Ice matters more than you might think. Invest in some fun, funky ice cube trays, and you can turn ordinary drinks into a work of art. Giant cubes for your Old Fashioned? Check. Spheres for your whiskey? Check. Now your ice is as cool as your cocktails.
So there you have it: the top 5-ish (still doin it) essential tools, plus a bonus for your home bar. With these in your arsenal, you'll be mixing up masterpieces, impressing your friends, and hosting the best cocktail parties in town. Cheers to taking your bartending skills to the next level!
Thanks again for reading!
Love yall!
What should we cover next?!
0%Why the odd shapes, different jiggers!
0%Give me the deets, I want more history.
0%Do you even make cocktails?! Give me a damn recipe!
0%My ice Is nice, the methods to make clear ice.
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