DIY Cocktail Bitters In Less Than 30 Minutes The Seattle Times

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Table of Contents

1. What are bitters?
2. How to use bitters in cocktails?
3. What are the different types of bitters?
4. What can be used as a substitute for bitters?
5. Where can I buy bitters?

What are bitters?

Bitters are a concentrated alcoholic mixture made from herbs, fruit, spices, and botanicals. They are used as a flavoring agent in cocktails to enhance their taste and aroma. Bitters have a bitter and complex flavor and are usually added in small amounts to cocktails, ranging from a few drops to a dash or two.

Bitters have been around for centuries and were originally used for medicinal purposes. Today, bitters are popular among bartenders and mixologists and are an essential ingredient in many classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, and Martini.

How to use bitters in cocktails?

Bitters are usually added towards the end of the cocktail-making process. Here are a few ways to use bitters:

1. Add bitters to the ice

Add a few drops of bitters to the ice in the cocktail shaker or glass before adding the other ingredients. This method allows the bitters to mix well with the other ingredients and creates a more balanced flavor in the cocktail.

2. Add bitters to the glass

Add a few drops of bitters to the glass before adding the ice and other ingredients. This method allows the bitters to coat the inside of the glass and enhances the aroma and flavor of the cocktail.

3. Use bitters as a garnish

Add a few drops of bitters on top of the foam or garnish of the cocktail. This method adds a layer of complexity to the cocktail and enhances its aroma and flavor.

What are the different types of bitters?

There are many types of bitters available in the market, each with its unique flavor profile. Here are a few popular types of bitters:

1. Angostura bitters

Angostura bitters are the most popular and widely used bitters. They have a spicy and bitter flavor and are a key ingredient in many classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned and Manhattan.

2. Orange bitters

Orange bitters have a citrusy and bitter flavor and are usually made from orange peels. They are used in cocktails such as the Martini and Negroni.

3. Peychaud's bitters

Peychaud's bitters have a sweet and spicy flavor and are a key ingredient in the Sazerac cocktail.

4. Chocolate bitters

Chocolate bitters have a rich and dark chocolate flavor and are used in cocktails such as the Whiskey Sour and Espresso Martini.

What can be used as a substitute for bitters?

If you don't have bitters on hand, there are a few substitutes that you can use:

1. Aromatic herbs and spices

You can use aromatic herbs and spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg as a substitute for bitters. Add a small amount of the spice to the cocktail to give it a complex and flavorful taste.

2. Citrus peels

You can use citrus peels such as orange or lemon as a substitute for bitters. Add a small amount of the peel to the cocktail to give it a citrusy and bitter flavor.

Where can I buy bitters?

Bitters are available at most liquor stores and online retailers. You can also find them at specialty stores that sell cocktail ingredients.

Conclusion

Bitters are an essential ingredient in many classic cocktails and are used to enhance their taste and aroma. There are many types of bitters available in the market, each with its unique flavor profile. Bitters can be added to cocktails in various ways, such as adding them to the ice, glass, or as a garnish. If you don't have bitters on hand, you can use substitutes such as aromatic herbs and spices or citrus peels. Bitters are widely available at most liquor stores and online retailers.