Using Jam In Cocktails: All Your FAQs Answered — Part II
To be fair, jam cocktails aren’t a recent phenomenon. But the trend has been catching on lately, and it’s easy to see why. The two blend well together so it’s no surprise why everyone is back on the bandwagon. If you’re curious, but have a couple of ifs and buts about the process, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about using jam in cocktails.
Read the part 1 of this article here
Q. How can I balance the sweetness of jam in cocktails?
You could start by adjusting the quantity of jam you add to the cocktail. If you’re not a sweet tooth and like a subtle sweetness, add a little jam. Even if you love sweets, keep the amount moderate because you don’t want the jam to overpower the drink. If you use fresh citrus juices instead of ready-made packs, it will also help in balancing the sweetness with their own flavour profiles. Finally, if it’s still too sweet, you can always dilute it with some ice, soda water, or club soda. But be sure to experiment and keep tasting what you’re creating to see that it meets your liking.
Q. What are the best garnishes for jam-based cocktails?
Some of the best garnish for jam cocktails are the simplest ones: fresh fruits, citrus zest, herbs such as rosemary and mint, cinnamon sticks, star anise, sugar rims, fruit skewers, and even whipped cream. But these all have their places in very specific cocktails so be sure that they complement the flavours in the drink.
Q. Should I strain out any fruit pieces from the jam or marmalade before using it in cocktails?
This depends entirely on your personal preference. If you like a very smooth and liquid-like consistency, then you should strain it. If not, then the bits can be the most flavourful at times and are thoroughly enjoyable!
Q. Can I make large batches of jam cocktails in advance for a party?
You certainly can! All you have to do is multiply the single servings by the number of people that you’d like to serve. Just be sure not to add too much ice and save that just before serving because it could dilute the original flavour profile.
Q. Are there any dietary considerations with jam in cocktails?
There are a couple of things to keep in mind. If you’re vegan, you’ll have to ensure that the ingredients in the jams are plant-based. If you’re sensitive or allergic to certain ingredients such as nuts or soy, be sure they’re not in the ingredients. Also, jams tend to be very sweet and calorific, so if you’re diabetic or counting calories, be sure to be mindful of these factors.
Q. Can jam-based cocktails be made as mocktails?
Yes! All you have to do is choose a non-alcoholic base such as sparkling water, soda water, ginger ale, and you can create your very own jam-based mocktails!
Q. How long do jam cocktails stay fresh?
This depends on several factors. If your jam cocktails have non-perishable ingredients, then it’s likely to have a longer shelf life than those that have fresh fruits. If you store it correctly in an airtight container and refrigerate it, it’ll also stay fresh for long. If you’ve added sodas or other aerated drinks, it’s best to consume it in a couple of hours since it was made. Typically, jam cocktails made with non-perishables remain fresh for up to two weeks if stored and refrigerated correctly.
Remember to enjoy your drinks in moderation!
