SHAKEN, NOT STIRRED
MANY COCKTAIL RECIPES require the ingredients to be shaken in a cocktail shaker before serving. This technique doesn’t just look impressive and give you a chance to use your new shiny cocktail mixing set; it helps blend the flavors and dilute and aerate (add air to) your drink. For a beginner, a three-piece shaker with a built-in strainer is a lot more user-friendly.
IF YOU want to master a really great shake, practice with rice. Its weight helps improve your muscle memory, and the loud noise helps you create an even rhythm.
1. ADD YOUR INGREDIENTS to the shaker. If it’s your first shaking attempt, start with the cheapest ingredient first. This is to avoid wasting expensive items if you make a mistake and have to start again.
2. FILL YOUR SHAKER halfway with ice, using tongs for hygiene purposes. Ice cubes are essential, as they cool and dilute the drink. They also make the distinctive loud rattling sound associated with cocktail shaking.
3. HOLD THE SHAKER in both hands and place your thumb over the top to ensure the top is tightly secured. Shake hard for the allocated time, usually 10–15 seconds, to thoroughly mix the flavors and to introduce air into the ingredients.
4. STRAIN THE LIQUID into a chilled glass. Some recipes may require you to “double strain” to ensure small pieces of ice and fruit are blocked from the entering the glass. To do this, pour through a fine strainer, as well as the built-in strainer.