Get Bitters…
Blood Orange Bitters by Stirrings
…Cocktail bitters! Want to spice up your cocktails? Then reach for exotic bitters they are sure to add a little extra kick to your cocktails. What are bitters exactly? Great question! They are cocktail flavorings made from roots, bark and herbs. Most mixologists, that’s bartender for the lay person, are using them in uber trendy bars, but now they are available for the at home mixologist.
These bitters are now featured in the Food Network Magazine’s May 2010 issue.
Stirrings ($5 for 12 ounces) – It is alcohol free and can be used to spice up seltzers. Check out their website for loads of cocktail recipes and ideas.
Urban Moonshine
Urban Moonshine ($11 for 2 ounces) – Maple-flavor bitters fresh from Vermont. Their site also features healthy tonics too!
The Bitter Truth
The Bitter Truth ($18 for 5 ounces) – These bitters hale from Germany and come in flavors likecelery and chocolate mole.
Here are some cocktail recipes you can make at home with your bitters.
Blood Orange Champagne Cocktail from Stirrings
Create a celebration in contradictions: a bittersweet combination of Champagne and Blood Orange Bitters.
1/2 part Stirrings Blood Orange Bitters
5 parts Champagne or sparkling wine
1 sugar cube
Garnish: lemon twist
In a Champagne flute, soak a sugar cube in Blood Orange Bitters, then fill flute with chilled Champagne. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Toronto Tower from The Bitter Truth
Inspired by the sky-high towers of downtown Toronto, this long refreshing cocktail blends Grey Goose vodka with fresh lime, complemented perfectly with a garnish of mint and lemongrass. Created for and served at the 2009 Toronto Film Festival.
Ingredients:
- 50ml Grey Goose vodka
- 25ml freshly squeezed lime juice
- 20ml sugar cane syrup
- 3 dashes The Bitter Truth Celery Bitters
- Top with sparkling water
Build cocktail in a highball glass and stir. Garnish with lemongrass and a sprig of fresh mint