Looking for a bold, sophisticated drink that brings a touch of drama to your gatherings? This smoked old fashioned recipe offers a delightful spin on the classic cocktail—without alcohol! Combining smoky undertones with a citrusy sweetness, this smoked old fashioned recipe replicates the depth of flavor traditionally found in the old fashioned but replaces the alcohol with innovative alternatives. Perfect for special occasions, cozy nights, or just impressing your guests, this smoked old fashioned recipe is as fun to make as it is to drink.
Ingredients:
Ingredients for the smoked old fashioned recipe:
- 1/2 cup brewed lapsang souchong tea (a smoky black tea)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters (non-alcoholic bitters preferred)
- 1 orange peel (for garnish)
- 1 maraschino cherry (optional garnish)
- Ice cubes
- Wood chips (applewood or hickory for smoking)
- A smoking gun or torch
Execution
Step-by-Step Method for the smoked old fashioned recipe:
- Prepare the smoky tea base:
- Brew a strong cup of lapsang souchong tea and let it cool to room temperature. This tea provides a natural smoky flavor, replacing the traditional whiskey base.
- Mix the mocktail:
- In a mixing glass, combine 1/2 cup of the brewed tea, maple syrup, and aromatic bitters. Stir well to combine the flavors.
- Prepare the serving glass:
- Place a large ice cube in your serving glass. Use a torch or smoking gun to lightly smoke the inside of the glass. Trap the smoke by covering the glass with a lid or coaster for a few seconds to allow the aroma to infuse.
- Pour and garnish:
- Pour the tea mixture into the smoked glass. Garnish with an orange peel twisted over the drink to release its oils and add a maraschino cherry for a pop of sweetness if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, allowing your guests to enjoy the enticing aroma and rich, smoky flavors.
Tips:
For the Best smoked old fashioned recipe:
- Experiment with wood chips:
- Try different wood types like cherry, oak, or mesquite for unique smoky notes.
- Use fresh ingredients:
- Fresh orange peel and high-quality maple syrup elevate the drink’s flavors.
- Enhance the smoke:
- For a bolder smoky effect, you can infuse the tea with smoke before brewing or use a cloche to trap more smoke in the drink.
- Customize the sweetness:
- Adjust the maple syrup to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount slightly.
FAQs:
- What is the best way to smoke an Old Fashioned? The best way to smoke an Old Fashioned is by using a smoking gun or wood chips. Place the cocktail glass over a board or cloche infused with smoke from burning wood chips, like oak or cherry, to add a rich, smoky aroma. Alternatively, torch a wooden plank or a cinnamon stick and capture the smoke in the glass before adding the drink for a rustic and aromatic experience.
- What is the best bourbon for a smokey Old Fashioned? The best bourbon for a smoky Old Fashioned has a bold flavor profile to complement the smoky notes. Options like Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, or Knob Creek work well due to their rich caramel, vanilla, and oaky undertones. For a smokier experience, consider bourbons with a high char barrel finish.
- What wood is best for smoking Old Fashioned? The best woods for smoking an Old Fashioned include:
- Oak: Provides a classic, strong smoky flavor.
- Cherry: Adds a subtle fruity sweetness to the smoke.
- Maple: Imparts a rich, sweet aroma that complements the drink’s ingredients.
- Hickory: Gives an intense, bold smokiness ideal for robust cocktails.
Experiment with different wood chips to customize the flavor.
- How to make a smoked Old Fashioned without a smoke gun? You can create a smoked Old Fashioned without a smoke gun by using a torch and wood plank or chips:
- Lightly torch a piece of oak or cherry wood until it smokes.
- Immediately place a cocktail glass upside down over the wood to capture the smoke.
- Let the smoke infuse for a few seconds before flipping the glass and preparing the cocktail inside.
Another option is to torch a cinnamon stick and hover the glass over it to absorb the smoky aroma.
