Are you looking for a sophisticated yet surprisingly easy cocktail to impress your guests or simply treat yourself? Look no further! This recipe recreates the decadent smoky delight of Eddie V's Smoked Old Fashioned, a drink that perfectly balances sweet, smoky, and strong. It's the ideal addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, elevating any evening. Prepare to be amazed by how this homemade cooking masterpiece comes together with simple ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Bourbon (preferably a high-quality, wheated bourbon)
- 1 sugar cube (or 1 tsp granulated sugar)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel, for garnish
- Smoked cherry wood chips (or other preferred smoking wood)
- Small bowl or heat-safe container
- Cocktail shaker (optional, for chilling)
- Rocks glass
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Smoke:
Place the smoked cherry wood chips in your small bowl. Carefully light the chips using a lighter or match. Once they begin to smolder, carefully cover the bowl with a plate, creating a makeshift smoking chamber. Allow the chips to smoke for about 2 minutes, then remove the plate.
Step 2: Muddle the Sugar:
In your rocks glass, muddle the sugar cube (or granulated sugar) with a few dashes of water until it dissolves completely. This creates a simple syrup base for your cocktail.
Step 3: Add Bourbon and Bitters:
Add the bourbon and Angostura bitters to the glass with the dissolved sugar. Gently stir to combine. If desired, you can chill the glass and bourbon beforehand for a truly refreshing drink.
Step 4: Smoking the Cocktail (Optional):
Carefully place the rocks glass over the smoking wood chips for approximately 15-20 seconds to infuse the drink with smoky notes. Avoid letting the flame come into direct contact with the glass.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve:
Express the oils from an orange peel over the surface of the drink before dropping it into the glass for garnish. Stir gently once more and enjoy your exquisite Smoked Old Fashioned.
Tips for the Best Smoked Old Fashioned:
- Bourbon Selection: The quality of your bourbon significantly impacts the final taste. Experiment with different bourbons to find your favorite profile.
- Smoke Intensity: Adjust the smoking time to control the intensity of the smoky flavor. Start with less time and add more if needed.
- Wood Choice: Feel free to experiment with different smoking woods like hickory, pecan, or applewood for unique flavor profiles.
- Ice: If using ice, add it after smoking the cocktail to prevent dilution.
Variations:
- Spicy Smoked Old Fashioned: Add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of habanero bitters for a fiery kick.
- Maple Smoked Old Fashioned: Substitute maple syrup for the sugar cube for a sweeter, more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on bourbon and sugar used) Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g Protein: Negligible Fat: Negligible
This delicious and easy-to-make Smoked Old Fashioned recipe is perfect for any occasion. It's a healthy indulgence that is sure to impress even the most discerning palate. Whether you're searching for best recipes or just some quick dinner ideas, this delightful cocktail deserves a place in your recipe collection. Enjoy!