Are you looking for a sophisticated yet easy cocktail to impress your guests or simply enjoy a relaxing evening at home? Look no further! This New Fashioned recipe takes the classic Old Fashioned and gives it a delightful twist, perfect for those who appreciate a well-balanced, flavorful drink. It’s a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, making it a perfect healthy choice for a special occasion or a casual get-together. This delicious dish is a testament to the power of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey (choose your favorite!)
- 1 oz Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
- ½ oz Simple Syrup (recipe below)
- 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
- Orange peel, for garnish
For the Simple Syrup:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
Instructions:
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Prepare the Simple Syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Let cool completely before using. This simple step elevates the entire drink!
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Chill your Glass: Place an Old Fashioned glass in the freezer for about 15 minutes to ensure a perfectly chilled drink.
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Muddle (Optional): If you prefer a more intense orange flavor, gently muddle a small piece of orange peel in the bottom of the chilled glass. This releases the essential oils and adds a lovely aroma.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the bourbon (or rye), orange juice, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters to the chilled glass filled with ice.
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Stir Well: Gently stir the mixture for about 20-30 seconds until well-chilled. Don't over-stir; you want to keep the drink slightly bubbly.
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Garnish and Serve: Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink by gently running the peel around the rim of the glass. Then, drop the peel into the glass for an elegant garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best New Fashioned:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of this drink is heavily reliant on the quality of the bourbon or rye. Investing in a good spirit will make a noticeable difference.
- Freshly squeezed juice is key: Avoid using bottled orange juice; the fresh juice adds a brightness and depth that bottled versions simply can't match.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a little more simple syrup. Conversely, if you prefer it less sweet, reduce the amount.
- Experiment with bitters: Different bitters can create vastly different flavor profiles. Feel free to experiment with other types of bitters, like orange bitters or Peychaud's bitters, to find your perfect combination.
Variations:
- Spicy New Fashioned: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the muddling process for a spicy kick.
- Blood Orange New Fashioned: Substitute blood orange juice for a vibrant color and unique flavor.
- Bourbon-less New Fashioned: Use a non-alcoholic spirit alternative for a delicious mocktail.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on using 2 oz of bourbon, and will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
- Sugar: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe is a delicious addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. It’s surprisingly simple to make, yet sophisticated enough for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and creating your own signature New Fashioned!