How To Bacon Wash Bourbon: The Surprising New Way To Enjoy Your Favorite Spirit
What To Know
- By adding rendered bacon fat to bourbon and allowing it to steep for a period of time, you can create a spirit that combines the bold flavors of both.
- Instead of rendering the bacon fat, wrap the bourbon bottle in bacon and cook it in the oven.
- Whether you enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, bacon-washed bourbon adds a unique and unforgettable touch to any drinking experience.
Bacon washing bourbon is a unique and innovative technique that infuses the rich, smoky flavors of bacon into bourbon whiskey. By adding rendered bacon fat to bourbon and allowing it to steep for a period of time, you can create a spirit that combines the bold flavors of both.
Benefits of Bacon Washing Bourbon
- Enhanced Flavor: Bacon washing adds a layer of smoky, savory notes to bourbon, creating a complex and intriguing flavor profile.
- Unique Experience: It offers a unique and memorable experience that elevates the enjoyment of bourbon.
- Versatility: Bacon-washed bourbon can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, adding a distinctive touch to any drink.
How to Bacon Wash Bourbon
Materials Needed
- 1 bottle (750ml) of bourbon
- 1 pound of bacon
- Cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer
- Jar or container with a lid
Instructions
1. Render the Bacon Fat: Cook the bacon until crispy. Reserve the bacon for another use (e.g., salads or sandwiches).
2. Strain the Bacon Fat: Place the cheesecloth or strainer over a jar or container. Pour the rendered bacon fat into the lined jar.
3. Add the Bourbon: Pour the bourbon into the jar containing the bacon fat.
4. Steep: Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 24-48 hours. The longer the steeping time, the more intense the bacon flavor will be.
5. Filter the Bourbon: After steeping, line a new cheesecloth or strainer over a clean jar. Slowly pour the bourbon-bacon fat mixture through the strainer to remove any solids.
6. Bottle and Enjoy: Bottle the bacon-washed bourbon and store it in a cool, dark place. It can be enjoyed immediately or aged for additional depth of flavor.
Variations
- Different Bacon Cuts: Experiment with different cuts of bacon, such as applewood-smoked or thick-cut, to create unique flavor variations.
- Infused Bourbon: Add other ingredients to the bacon fat before steeping, such as herbs, spices, or citrus peels, to enhance the flavor profile.
- Bacon-Wrapped Bourbon: Instead of rendering the bacon fat, wrap the bourbon bottle in bacon and cook it in the oven. This method imparts a stronger bacon flavor.
Cocktails with Bacon-Washed Bourbon
- Bacon Old Fashioned: Combine bacon-washed bourbon, simple syrup, bitters, and an orange peel for a smoky twist on the classic cocktail.
- Bacon Manhattan: Mix bacon-washed bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters for a rich and savory take on the Manhattan.
- Bacon Sour: Shake bacon-washed bourbon, lemon juice, simple syrup, and an egg white for a refreshing and complex sour cocktail.
Pairing Bacon-Washed Bourbon with Food
- Grilled Meats: The smoky flavors of bacon-washed bourbon complement grilled meats, such as steaks, burgers, and ribs.
- Smoked Cheese: Pair bacon-washed bourbon with smoked cheddar, gouda, or blue cheese for a harmonious combination of flavors.
- Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Stuff dates with bacon and wrap them in bacon-washed bourbon-soaked bacon for a sweet and savory appetizer.
The Bottom Line: A Revolution in Bourbon
Bacon washing bourbon is a transformative technique that opens up a world of new flavor possibilities. Whether you enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, bacon-washed bourbon adds a unique and unforgettable touch to any drinking experience. Embrace the smoky indulgence and elevate your spirits with this culinary masterpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long can I store bacon-washed bourbon?
A: Bacon-washed bourbon can be stored for up to 6 months in a cool, dark place.
Q: Can I use bacon fat from a jar instead of rendering my own?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought bacon fat, but it may not have as intense a flavor as freshly rendered bacon fat.
Q: What type of bourbon is best for bacon washing?
A: A high-proof bourbon with a strong flavor will stand up well to the bacon washing process. Consider using bourbons with a proof of 90 or higher.
Q: How do I clean the cheesecloth after straining the bourbon?
A: Soak the cheesecloth in hot water with dish soap. Rinse thoroughly and allow it to air dry.
Q: Can I bacon wash other spirits?
A: Yes, you can bacon wash other spirits such as whiskey, rum, or vodka. However, the flavor profile will vary depending on the spirit used.
