Ice has long been overlooked and underappreciated, playing a supporting role to the main attraction of our beverages. But innovative mixologists are changing the game by using perfectly shaped, clear ice cubes to elevate cocktails. In “The Ice Book: Cool Cubes, Clear Spheres, and Other Chill Cocktail Crafts,” author Camper English explains the importance of good ice in drinks. He compares the difference between cloudy and clear ice to drinking champagne out of a styrofoam cup versus a crystal flute. Clear ice not only improves the aesthetic, but it also enhances the overall drinking experience.
Steven Huddleston, a molecular mixologist, emphasizes that ice can have a significant impact on the taste of a cocktail. By adding ice, flavors become more expansive and the spirit opens up, preventing a harsh burn on the palate. Huddleston advises using the best quality ice possible, as recommended by ice expert Camper English, to ensure the highest quality drink.
At home, it’s important not to skimp on presentation when making cocktails. Sonja Overhiser, co-founder of A Couple Cooks, believes that even small touches like using clear ice can make a difference in the overall experience. Clear ice not only looks visually appealing, but it also cools the drink without diluting it too quickly, ensuring a slower melt and better taste.
To achieve clear ice, it’s crucial to use good-tasting water, preferably filtered. Boiling the water is unnecessary, as it doesn’t remove impurities or make the ice clearer. However, it’s essential to store the ice properly to prevent it from absorbing odors from the freezer or refrigerator.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes of ice cubes, as they can impact the way a drink tastes and looks. From cylindrical shapes to round spheres, there’s a variety of options to choose from. Additionally, the current trend for smaller pebble ice cubes, known for their ability to keep drinks colder for longer, has become popular among ice enthusiasts.
For those seeking ultimate clarity in their ice, directional freezing is the way to go. Mimicking the natural process of freezing in bodies of water, this technique forces water to freeze from one direction to another, pushing impurities away from the point of freezing. Using a hard-sided cooler and following the proper freezing method can result in clear, professional-grade ice cubes.
In conclusion, ice is no longer just an afterthought in cocktails. Mixologists have recognized its importance, and the quest for perfectly shaped, clear ice cubes is on the rise. By understanding the role ice plays in a drink and using high-quality ice, anyone can elevate their cocktail experience and impress their guests.
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