There’s only a few instances in which being a show-off really works. One of them happens to be cocktails. If you’re entertaining at home, have perfected the art of cocktails, and just have to be OTT (I feel you), there’s nothing like adding smoke to your cocktails to make them mysterious and dramatic. Here are a few ways bars around the world give their cocktails that irresistible smokey flavour.
Smoke gun:Â The most traditional and possibly the easiest way, opted by bars far and wide, is the smoke gun. Usually the smoke gun is used to smoke a glass with your preferred woodchips, covering them with a glass lid for ideal presentation. When served, take the lid off and pour in your drink to watch the misty magic take place. Or you can also directly smoke it. Go through a manual and keep practicing for different techniques and flavours.
Dry ice: Of course, there’s the age old way of having smoke but not the strong flavour of it. Dry ice makes everything a tad bit more snazzy. Adding dry ice smoke to stirred drinks (non-carbonated) can result in great visuals, photos and a lot of applause.
Garnish:Â Drink your smoke and eat it too, I guess! Set your garnish on fire and then blow it out right before you let your guests have a taste. This not only has a delicious aroma but also tastes oh-so-unique.
Herbs:Â Going for a more subtle smoke flavour? Burn a herb, place it on a plate and place your glass upside down on it before you start pouring the drink. This’ll give you a great, understated flavour that’s going to be the talk amongst your friends for months to come.
Smoked liquor: If you’re less about the visual appeal and more about the smokey flavour, try opting for spirits that taste smoked. You can never go wrong with popular selections such as peated scotch. Get to sourcing!
