How do you add smoke to a classic cocktail? By infusing it with smoke of course!
Adding smoke to this classic cocktail adds depth of flavor that complements the bourbon, while the simple syrup is infused with rosemary, which also plays a role as a swizzle stick. Serve this at your next party for a great conversation piece!
The smoke in this recipe is achieved by using a tool called the smoking gun, which is a hand held cold smoker. By infusing the cocktail with a cloud of smoke and letting it infuse the bourbon, you easily and quickly add nice smokiness. You can use different types of fuel for the smoking gun such as crushed up cigar or even tea to experiment with different flavors! The possibilities are endless!
What I normally do is pour the bourbon of choice into a pitcher and infuse the pitcher with smoke from the smoking gun and cover it with plastic wrap to trap the smoke in. Then, when I’m ready to make the cocktail, the bourbon is already nice and smoky.
How to Make Smoked Ice For Cocktails (no special equipment needed)
If you don’t have a smoking gun, there are other ways to add smoke to cocktails. The next time you smoke something, put a pan of water on your smoker. Let it sit there for the duration of your cook. When finished, use cheesecloth to strain any bits of ash out before pouring into an ice cube mold.
I like to use large block ice molds and freeze them with a sprig of rosemary which makes for an awesome presentation. You can also get creative with your ice options to go with a theme, I’m in love with these alligator ice molds, which could do double duty to stir the cocktail!
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Smoked Old Fashioned
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail
Description
Once you’ve had a smoked old fashioned, which is easily achieved without needing a grill or smoker at home, this will be your new favorite way to enjoy this classic bourbon cocktail.
Ingredients
• 2 oz good quality bourbon
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters, or to taste
• 1 large segment orange peel
• 1 teaspoon simple syrup – (simple syrup is a 1/1 ration sugar/water. Cook with rosemary sprig to infuse flavor into the syrup. Can be stored in the refrigerator for a week for making cocktails).
• 1 maraschino cherry
Instructions
In a decanter or large glass pitcher, add the bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters. Next, turn on your smoking gun and infuse the pitcher with smoke for 1-2 minutes; close the container with a piece of saran wrap so the smoke is trapped into the pitcher. Swirl the bourbon around and then pour it into a old fashioned glass filled with ice. Take the orange peel and swirl around the rim of the glass and then add to the drink. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary. Enjoy!
Notes
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- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: none
- Category: smoked cocktails
- Method: smoke
- Cuisine: cocktails, bourbon
Keywords: smoked bourbon, how to make smoked cocktails, smoked ice, smoked old fashioned cocktail, how to smoke bourbon, how to make smoked cocktails, smoked old fashioned recipe
Do you love smoke and cocktails?
Check out some of my cocktail recipes that can be made on your grill or smoker, like my grilled margarita recipe or my smoky greyhound with grilled grapefruit, vodka and rosemary-ginger-honey!
