Are you ready to elevate your cocktail game? Then look no further than this classic Old Fashioned, crafted with the smooth and complex notes of Four Roses bourbon. This isn't just a drink; it's an experience. Forget sugary, overly sweet concoctions; this recipe delivers a perfectly balanced, sophisticated Old Fashioned that's both easy to make and incredibly rewarding. It's the perfect homemade cocktail for impressing guests or simply enjoying a quiet evening in. This easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, a true example of delicious dishes made simple.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Four Roses Bourbon (I recommend Four Roses Small Batch for its versatility)
- 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel, for garnish
Equipment:
- Old fashioned glass
- Muddler
- Jigger or measuring spoons
Instructions:
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Muddle the Sugar: Place the sugar cube (or granulated sugar) in the bottom of your Old Fashioned glass. Add a few dashes of water—just enough to slightly moisten the sugar. Use your muddler to gently crush the sugar, releasing its sweetness. Don't over-muddle; you just want to dissolve the sugar, not create a paste.
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Add Bitters and Bourbon: Add the Angostura bitters to the glass. Then, pour in the Four Roses bourbon.
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Stir Well: Using a bar spoon (or a long spoon), gently stir the mixture for about 20-30 seconds. This helps to chill and combine the ingredients, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Don't be shy with the stirring; a well-stirred Old Fashioned is a happy Old Fashioned.
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Add Ice: Fill the glass with large ice cubes. The larger the ice, the slower it will melt, preserving the drink's temperature and preventing dilution.
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Garnish and Serve: Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink (gently rub the peel around the rim of the glass before expressing). Drop the orange peel into the drink as a garnish.
Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned:
- Use quality ice: Invest in good quality ice for a better tasting drink. Large, clear ice cubes melt slower and will keep your cocktail colder, for longer.
- Don't over-muddle: Gently muddle the sugar; you're aiming for dissolution, not a sugary paste.
- Adjust to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar and bitters to suit your preferences. Some prefer a sweeter Old Fashioned, while others prefer a more bitter profile.
- Experiment with different bourbons: While Four Roses is a fantastic choice, feel free to experiment with other bourbons to discover your favorite flavor profile.
Variations:
- Four Roses Single Barrel Old Fashioned: For a bolder, richer flavor, substitute Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon.
- Smoked Old Fashioned: Add a few drops of smoked bitters for a smoky twist.
- Cherry Old Fashioned: Muddle a few cherries along with the sugar for a fruity variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
- Protein: Negligible
- Fat: Negligible
Making this Old Fashioned is a simple yet rewarding experience. It's a perfect example of how a few quality ingredients, combined with a little care, can produce a truly delicious and memorable cocktail. This recipe is a testament to the art of homemade cooking and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas or impressive party drinks. Enjoy responsibly!