What Do Bartenders Use To Mix Drinks
Bartending use shakers, strainers, jiggers, bar spoons, and muddlers to mix drinks. For example, a Boston shaker is often used to blend ingredients for a classic Margarita. In this article, we’ll explore the tools that bartenders used to mix drinks in depth. They are essential for all bartenders: mixologists, flair bartenders, and the resident barman.
1. Jigger: The Bartender’s Measuring Maestro
The jigger is a measuring tool bartenders use to ensure precise portions of liquid ingredients for balanced cocktails. It typically has two ends, such as 1-ounce and 2-ounce capacities. For example, bartenders use the 2-ounce side for tequila and the 1-ounce side for lime juice when making a Margarita to maintain the correct ratio.
Metal jiggers are popular for their durability, with styles like the Japanese jigger, known for its slender design, and the bell jigger, which offers an ergonomic grip. Choosing a comfortable jigger ensures quick and accurate measurements while mixing drinks.
2. Shaker
The shaker is an essential tool for mixing cocktails that require a smooth blend of ingredients. It typically includes a mixing tin, lid, and built-in strainer. Bartenders use it to combine liquids like spirits, juices, and syrups, shaking them with ice to chill and mix evenly. For example, a shaker is crucial when crafting a Whiskey Sour to emulsify the citrus and egg white for a frothy texture.
Stainless steel shakers are popular for their durability and secure fit, ensuring no leaks during shaking. Common types include the Boston shaker, preferred for its two-piece design, and the Cobbler shaker, which features an integrated strainer for convenience.
3. Mixing Glass
The mixing glass is a tool bartenders use to stir cocktails and combine ingredients smoothly. A sturdy, thick-bottomed glass is ideal for stability and to prevent spills during stirring. For example, it’s perfect for preparing a Martini or Manhattan, where gentle stirring is key to preserving clarity and balance.
While traditional glass is common, some bartenders opt for metal or plastic mixing glasses for added durability and less risk of breakage.
4. Mixing Spoon
The mixing spoon is a must-have tool for stirring and blending cocktail ingredients. Its long handle and spoon-shaped head make it ideal for dissolving sugar or salt and gently mixing liquids. For example, bartenders use it to stir a Negroni, ensuring the ingredients are evenly combined without over-diluting.
Mixing spoons come in various sizes and styles, often featuring a twisted handle for better grip and control while stirring.
5. Cocktail Strainer
The cocktail strainer is a tool used to filter out ice, pulp, and other solids when pouring a mixed drink. It typically features a fine mesh screen and a bowl-shaped frame with a handle. For example, bartenders use a Hawthorne strainer after shaking a Daiquiri to ensure a smooth, clean pour.
Many bartenders keep two types of strainers: a Hawthorne strainer for shaken drinks and a Julep strainer for stirred cocktails like a Manhattan. Each is designed to fit different mixing methods and ensure a flawless presentation.
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6. Zesters
The zester is a tool bartenders use to create citrus twists or peels for garnishing cocktails. Its metal blade with tiny holes allows for precise and clean peeling, adding a burst of aroma and flavor to drinks. For example, bartenders use a zester to create a lemon twist for a Martini or an orange peel for an Old Fashioned.
Available in various shapes, zesters are essential for adding a professional touch to cocktails while enhancing their visual appeal and aroma.
7. Muddler
The muddler is a tool bartenders use to crush and mix fresh ingredients, releasing their flavors into a cocktail. It’s essential for drinks like the Mojito, where mint leaves are gently muddled with sugar to extract their aroma and oils without tearing them.
Muddlers come in various materials such as wood, metal, or plastic, and are designed to efficiently crush fruits, herbs, and sugar directly in the glass or shaker, enhancing the cocktail’s flavor profile.
8. Reamer
The reamer is a tool bartenders use to extract juice from citrus fruits like lemons and limes. Its pointed end and ridged body make it easy to press into the fruit, maximizing juice extraction. For example, bartenders use a reamer to quickly juice fresh limes for a Margarita or lemons for a Whiskey Sour.
Some reamers come with added ridges or ergonomic handles to enhance efficiency, making them a must-have for creating fresh, flavorful cocktails.
9. Bottle Opener
The bottle opener is a simple yet essential tool for safely and efficiently opening bottles. Designed in various shapes and sizes, it ensures quick access to beer or soda without the risk of damage or injury. For example, bartenders use a flat bar blade opener to swiftly pop the caps off multiple bottles during busy shifts.
Compact and durable, a reliable bottle opener is a must-have for any bartender’s toolkit.
10. Cutting Boards
Cutting boards are essential for slicing fruits, garnishes, and other ingredients while keeping surfaces clean and scratch-free. Typically made from wood, plastic, or metal, they provide a safe and stable area for precise cutting. For example, bartenders use a cutting board to slice lemons and limes for garnishing cocktails.
Some cutting boards feature raised edges to contain juices and prevent spills, making them practical and easy to clean.
11. Peeler
A peeler is a handy tool for quickly and efficiently removing the skin from fruits and vegetables. Its curved blade allows for smooth peeling, perfect for creating citrus peels or ribbons for cocktail garnishes. For example, bartenders use a peeler to create long orange or lemon strips for drinks like the Old Fashioned.
A good peeler ensures clean, precise results, adding a polished touch to any cocktail presentation.
12. Ice Tongs
Ice tongs are essential for handling ice cubes hygienically and with precision. Featuring small scoops or teeth at the ends, they allow bartenders to lift and place ice cubes into glasses without using their hands, ensuring cleanliness and a professional presentation. For example, bartenders use ice tongs to add perfectly shaped ice cubes to a Whiskey on the Rocks, enhancing both the drink’s appearance and hygiene.
Investing in tools like ice tongs ensures you’re equipped to craft cocktails with finesse and professionalism, creating a memorable experience for your patrons.