The theories that explain how cocktails came to be are so many. The first mention of the term cocktail was made in the Farmers Cabinet in the US in 1803. Three years later, a cocktail came to be defined as an alcoholic beverage in New York. There was a man, Jerry Thomas, who published a bartenders’ guide known as How to Mix Drinks and has ten recipes that can be used to make the drink. In the 1900s, cocktails were known to many people, which led to the introduction of the term cocktail party.
The United States prohibited the consumption of wine and beer between 1920-1933, making cocktails more popular because they were easily accessible by many people in the states. During the early 2000s, there was a rise in cocktail culture, mainly through the mixology style. This style mixes traditional cocktails and many other ingredients to create a perfect drink. Some of the famous types of cocktails you will find there include Mojito, Manhattan, and Martini.
Process of making cocktails
There are so many different methods that you can use to make cocktails which include the building method, stirring method, shaking method, blending method, and layering method. We are going to discuss each of these methods in detail.
Building method
In this method, cocktails are made by pouring all the used ingredients one at a time into the glass that is to be served in the bar. After the glass is served, it is then stirred, and in case the recipe calls for ice to be added, that is what you start with and then put in the ingredients later. Some of the best drinks made using this method include Highballs, Rickey, Swizzle, and Hot drinks.
Shaking method
The shaking method, the second one, requires that all the ingredients used to make the drink, including ice, be put in the shaker and mixed thoroughly. After mixing the cocktail completely, you will pour it into the glasses and give it to those ready to drink. This method is mostly used when the recipe has cream, fruit juices, egg, and sugar syrup.
Stirring method
This method is a bit unique from other methods as it involves mixing the ingredients mentioned in the recipe you are using with ice by stirring very quickly in a mixing glass using the stirrer. As soon as the drink is stirred well, it is poured into the glasses and ready to drink. The main reason the stirring is done very fast is to minimize dilution. You need to maintain dilution because the drinks are made from clear liquids such as wines, spirits, and liqueurs.
Blending method
The fourth method of making cocktails combines solid foods, ice, and fruits in an electric blender. This is the best method to use when you want to make many mixed drinks. With this method, you will be able to make a lot of drinks with ease.
Layering method
Our last method of making cocktails is only perfect when the ingredients that are to be used have different colors, sensitivity, and also different flavors. Each ingredient to be used is floated over another ingredient by gently pouring it into a straight-sided glass. Spirits, liqueurs, and syrups are used mainly in the preparation of cocktails by this method.
Cocktail Shakers
A device that can be used when you need to shake and mix beverages that are alcoholic is what we call a cocktail shaker. Plenty of these shakers are available in the market, and it will be wise to make sure that you shop for the best one that will serve you better for a long time. Below are a few shakers you can buy from Amazon.
Cocktail Shaker Set
This 24oz stainless steel martini shaker and drink mixer set with alcohol bar tools are one of the best cocktail shakers you can buy from Amazon at an affordable price, and enjoy fast shipping. In addition, the Shaker Set comes with an ice strainer, jigger, bar spoon, craft cocktail kit recipe guide, and mixology bartender kit.
If you are wondering why this Shaker Set with ice strainer has plenty of good reviews from past users, it is because of how essential it is for any bar. This 3pc drink mixer with an ice strainer includes everything you need to make tasty and flavorful mixed drinks, martini drinks, margarita drinks, and any other alcoholic drinks.
Made of stainless steel material and an elegant finish, the Shaker Set will be able to give you the quality services that you need for a long time. The shaker with ice strainer is rust and leak-proof, meaning that none of your best beverages will go to waste or have a bad taste. Cleaning the stainless steel Shaker Set with an ice strainer is easy as and you can even put it in your dishwasher as often as you like.
24oz Cocktail Shaker Set Bartender Kit by Aozita
When you buy this Shaker Set, offered at an affordable price, you will see that the package comes with a stainless steel martini shaker, mixing spoon muddler, measuring jigger, and a manual of recipes.
This professional shaker set with recipes includes a stainless steel bottom tin that can hold up to the three best beverages with a built-in strainer lid. The shaker set has bottom tin looks desirable and fashionable, and it will be able to last for a long time, making you can keep shaking drinks for many years. You can use this shaker set with recipes for shaking and mixing any kind of drink you want.
Rusty Barrel London Cocktail Shaker Set
This bar set includes a shaker + muddler, strainer, jigger, pourer, spoon, and recipe booklet. The materials used to make this Rusty Barrel London Cocktail Shaker Set is stainless steel, ensuring that the maker will last a lifetime while giving the best services.
With this set, you will be making the best cocktails at home or bar, as it has all the tools you need for that to happen. In addition, the muddler available in this package will ensure that you end up only with the good stuff in your glass and not something you do not love.
This Shaker Set has a mirrored finish, and it is designed not to leak or even rust which means it will remain in your bar for years to come. In addition, a recipe book has been included in the package, which is what will help you get to make many different cocktails in a matter of minutes.
Elevated Craft Hybrid Cocktail Shaker
If you want the best cocktail shaker to use for shaking ingredients and come up with the best cocktails in a matter of minutes, then you need to shop for this Elevated Craft Hybrid Cocktail Shaker. This stainless steel Shaker is available on Amazon at a reasonable price and has plenty of good reviews from the many people who have used it in the past.
The double-wall vacuum insulated design that the shaker has guarded against diluting heat transfer to make super-chilled best beverages you will love. Cleaning is easy as the stainless steel shaker is dishwasher safe. In addition, it has a super high-capacity jigger top which ensures that you can dial your mix from micro to full.
You will also love the twist-lock lid, and top this Cocktail Shaker has, ensuring no more sticky leaks or frozen stick frustrations. The built-in trainer available in this Cocktail Shaker will ensure that all ice solids will be held back so you can get the perfect drink at the end. Unlike the many other tin shakers and cheap glasses available, the Elevated Craft Hybrid Cocktail Shaker is made of pro-grade 18//8 stainless steel, which will never transfer metallic flavor to your cocktail.
Mixology Bartender Kit, a 10-piece bar tool set with a stylish bamboo stand
One of the best cocktail shakers you will find on Amazon with so many good reviews is the silver Mixology Bartender Kit. This shaker has everything you need for shaking and mixing ingredients to create the perfect drink. This Mixology Bartender Kit is indeed what you need whether you are a professional bartender or an amateur because it has the many tools you need, which are displayed ideally using the bamboo stand.
There will be no clutter in your kitchen drawers and cabinets when you have this Mixology Bartender Kit, which will help you win some customers to your bar. You will fall in love with this Mixology Bartender Kit because it is durable enough and can even last for a lifetime, helping you keep shaking your best beverages daily. The Mixology Bartender Kit is made of stainless steel, making it dishwasher safe, and therefore you can forget about wear and tear.
Boston Cocktail Shaker Bar Set by VinoBravo
This Boston cocktail shaker has two weighted shaker tins, a strainer set, a double jigger, a bar spoon, two liquor pourers, and a recipe guide. Undoubtedly, the Boston Cocktail Shaker with double jigger and weighted shaker tins is one of the best shakers you will find on Amazon, which will help you to keep shaking your best beverage.
This Boston shaker is very easy and will make you the best drink in a matter of minutes. No more leaky cocktail shakers because this shaker has top-grade weighted shaker tins. The shaker has a sleek and exquisite look that will improve your décor as it combines luxury and elegance at once.
Regarding durability, the Boston Shaker will last you for a lifetime as the materials used to make it will never wear or tear.
Mixology Bartender Kit with Rustic Wood stand
This copper Mixology Bartender Kit has all the essential tools needed when you want to keep shacking ingredients and making the perfect beverage in the bar. The 11-piece bar toolset includes a 24oz martini shaker, a spiral spoon, jigger, corkscrew, muddler, ice tongs, liquor pourer, and more.
Never will you have to think about buying another Mixology Bartender Kit as this one is very durable because it is made from stainless steel and can even last for a lifetime. In addition, you will have an easy time cleaning the Mixology Bartender Kit, which is dishwasher safe.
FAQ:
How to use a cocktail shaker?
You need to know a few things before using a cocktail shaker:
- Make sure your shaker is clean and dry.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes until it is about two-thirds full.
- Add your ingredients to the shaker.
- Put the lid on the shaker and shake it vigorously for about 30 seconds.
- Strain your drink into a glass and enjoy!
How to open a cocktail shaker?
To open a cocktail shaker:
- Remove the lid by unscrewing it or popping it off.
- Take the strainer off of the shaker.
- Hold onto the shaker with one hand and use the other hand to twist off the cap that is on top of the shaker.
How to open a stuck cocktail shaker?
If your cocktail shaker becomes stuck, there are a few things you can do to try and open it. First, run the cocktail shaker under hot water for a few seconds. This can help to loosen the seal. If that doesn’t work, tap the cocktail shaker on the countertop or use a butter knife to pry it. If all else fails, you can always bring your cocktail shaker to a professional to have it opened.
How to shake a cocktail without a shaker?
If you don’t have a shaker, you can still make cocktails by using a few simple tools. All you need is a glass, a spoon, and some ice.
To shake a cocktail without a shaker:
- Start by adding all ingredients to a glass.
- Hold the glass with one hand and use the other hand to stir the drink for 30 seconds.
- Place a spoon in the glass and quickly move it up and down to create friction.
- Add some ice to the glass and stir for another 30 seconds.
Enjoy your delicious cocktail!
Why does my cocktail shaker leak?
There are a few reasons your cocktail shaker might be leaking:
- Check to make sure the seal on the lid is tight. If the seal is loose, air can escape and cause the shaker to leak.
- Check to see if the shaker is dented or damaged. If there are cracks or holes in the shaker, liquid can escape through them and cause leaks.
- Make sure you’re not overfilling the shaker.
If you fill it too full, liquid can spill out when you shake it.
If you still have problems with your cocktail shaker leaking, try using a different one. There are many different types and styles of cocktail shakers available, so you should be able to find one that doesn’t leak.
Why does my cocktail shaker explode?
There are a few reasons why your cocktail shaker might have exploded. The most likely reason is that the seal on the shaker was not tight enough, and the air could get into the shaker. This can happen if you shake the shaker too vigorously or don’t screw the lid on tightly enough.
Another possibility is that something else in the shaker, like a piece of fruit or straw, prevented the lid from sealing properly. Finally, it’s possible that the cocktail shaker itself was defective and couldn’t hold up to the pressure of shaking. Whatever the reason, an exploding cocktail shaker is definitely a party foul!
Can you shake soda in a cocktail shaker?
Yes, you can shake soda in a cocktail shaker. This will help to create a foamy texture and also help to distribute the carbonation evenly. However, be careful not to shake too vigorously, as this can cause the soda to explode out of the shaker. Also, be sure to release the pressure from the shaker before opening it to avoid any spills.
How to choose a cocktail shaker?
When choosing a cocktail shaker, it is important to consider the following factors:
– The type of cocktail shaker (e.g., Boston shaker, cobbler shaker, French shaker)
– The material of the cocktail shaker (e.g., glass, stainless steel, copper)
– The capacity of the cocktail shaker
– The features of the cocktail shaker (e.g., strainer, jigger, muddler)
– The price of the cocktail shaker
Cocktail Shaker Alternatives
When it comes to making cocktails, a shaker is an essential tool. But if you don’t have a shaker on hand, plenty of other items can do the job just as well. Here are some of the best cocktail shaker alternatives:
1. Mason Jar: A mason jar is perfect for shaking up a small batch of cocktails. Plus, it has a lid that keeps all ingredients from flying out while you shake.
2. Water Bottle: A water bottle can also be used as a makeshift cocktail shaker. Make sure it’s made of glass or metal, so it doesn’t shatter when you start shaking.
3. Thermos: A thermos is another excellent option for shaking cocktails. It’s insulated, so it keeps your drinks cold and has a tight seal to prevent spills.
4. Coffee mug: A coffee mug can also be used as a cocktail shaker. Make sure it’s made of ceramic or glass, so it doesn’t break when you start shaking.
5. Bowl: If you don’t have any of the above items on hand, you can always use a bowl to mix up your cocktails. Just be careful not to spill!
With these cocktail shaker alternatives, you’ll be able to make all of your favorite drinks without any issue. So next time you’re in a pinch, don’t stress – grab one of these items and start shaking. Cheers!
