‘Equal Parts’ Cocktails: The Amateur Mixologist’s Cheat Sheet To Mastering Ratios
No fancy mathematics, no precise calculations. An equal parts cocktail is nothing but a drink which is prepared using the same measurement of every ingredient. This easy blending ratio can actually lead to the making of very interesting, elegant mixes that offer a lot of flavour complexity as a result of three to four ingredients coming together in equal measure.
Yet, for an amateur, getting the ingredients to mix well in a balanced fashion might be more complex than it sounds. Making equal parts cocktails requires paying close attention to precise measurements and to ingredient combinations which are so designed that the different flavour notes in the spirits and mixers work together in perfect harmony.
Are you an amateur mixologist trying your hands at these equal parts cocktails? Read on below for a cheat sheet complete with different tips and hacks to get these drinks just right:
Start With A Tried-And-Tested Template
One reason why an equal parts cocktail works for beginners is that it is balanced by design. A spirit, a sweet flavour and a sour or bitter agent come together in one single measure to craft a sophisticated blend. So, the first pro tip for an amateur would be to stick to a tried-and-tested template of ingredients which can be brought together in equal parts.
This means, choose 3 to 4 ingredients such as one base spirit, one liqueur, one sweetener and one citrus juice or bitter element as a golden formula to blend the drink. Think back to the last word cocktail: a mix of 30 ml gin, green chartreuse, maraschino liqueur and lime juice each, which leads to the making of a citrusy, herbal and complex blend.
Also Read: 3 Equal Parts Cocktails To Master For An Upcoming Weekend Hang
Measure Precisely – Always
When it comes to blending equal parts cocktails, measuring consistency is key. Whether you are opting for a tablespoon or an espresso cup or a measuring spoon or a proper jigger, it’s imperative to use the same unit of measure across all ingredients. This is the only way to ensure that the ingredients required for the cocktail come together in equal quantities.
Another factor to look out for is how tightly filled the measuring tool will be. Whether you are filling it to the brim or you are adding just enough ingredients so the measuring tool is full without running the risk of spills – all essentials should be uniformly levelled. This will keep the ingredient proportions consistent within the same measuring unit.
Shake If Citrus, Stir If Spirits
This is an interesting hack to ensure that all the ingredients in the cocktail have combined well. Sometimes, equal parts citrus and spirit might have difficulty mixing into each other unless they are blended well, because of differing densities. Use a sturdy shaker to build cocktails that contain this citrusy element in the form of orange juice or lime juice.
On the other hand, drinks like the boulevardier or the negroni are generally prepared using equal parts of different spirits and liqueurs. These are elements whose flavours can open up gradually as the drink chills on a bed of ice. Stirring this cocktail is the best way to bring all of its different ingredients together while retaining its silky, smooth texture.
Choose Harmonious Flavours
After you have mastered the basic equal parts cocktails, start looking for more diverse flavour explorations balanced by a similar ratio. All the while, make sure the ingredients being pulled together contain complementary flavours that interact well with each other.
Think 30 ml bourbon and bitter Italian aperitifs brought together with equal parts of a spritzer to prepare a fresh and fizzy drink at a sundowner.
Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
