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The (Hobby) Cocktail Shaker’s Toolkit
Whether you’re a professional bartender or cocktail shaker, or just want to make cocktails at home for friends, there are certain things you need to make the perfect cocktail. Here are the essential tools you need to put a beautiful cocktail on the table.
The cocktail shaker
By far the most important tool for making and cooling a cocktail is a cocktail shaker. There are few cocktails you can make without it.
There are two types of cocktail shakers: the Boston shaker and the Cobbler shaker. The Boston shaker consists of two metal cups that fit together and are used as a pair to mix the ingredients. The classic Cobbler shaker consists of three parts. It has a metal cup, a tubular top with a built-in strainer that fits a cap. Choosing the right cocktail shaker depends on your personal preference and experience.
The jigger
Another indispensable piece of equipment is the jigger. This is needed to measure the correct amount of drink needed to make the cocktail. It is a small conical measuring cup with two ends in which you can measure two different sizes. When you do it freehand, you often pour more alcohol in than you would like the next morning, we know from experience.
The bar strainer
Pits, pulp, or herbs usually don’t belong in the cocktail. A bar strainer is a sieve that fits exactly on your cocktail shaker. It is used to filter the cocktail and hold back the ice cubes, so that only the liquid cocktail ends up in the glass.
The muddler
The muddler is a pestle that is used to crush and mix herbs, fruit, sugar, or ice. This releases flavors and aromas, allowing them to mix with the other ingredients in the cocktail. It can also change the texture of the cocktail. For example, when you muddle fruit, you get a cloudier texture.
Bar spoon
A bar spoon is a long, thin spoon that is used to stir and mix the ingredients. It is useful to use a bar spoon instead of a regular spoon because the length and shape make it easier to mix the ingredients.
The glass
Choosing the right glass for the cocktail contributes to the taste and atmosphere you want to create. Curious about which glass to choose for which cocktail? Then read this blog.
In cocktail land, new gadgets are constantly being invented, which are a lot of fun, but we advise you to start simple and expand as you get the hang of it.