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Every home bar needs these spirits, says Ina Garten
Ina Garten, the beloved Barefoot Contessa, is not only a master in the kitchen, but also an expert when it comes to stocking a home bar. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to enjoy a well-crafted cocktail at home, Garten’s recommendations for essential spirits will ensure you have everything you need to create delicious drinks for any occasion.
Garten’s Essential Spirits
According to Ina Garten, there are four essential spirits that every home bar should have: Scotch, vodka, bourbon, and gin. These versatile spirits are the foundation for a variety of cocktails and can be enjoyed on their own. With these spirits on hand, you’ll be able to whip up classic drinks like vodka sodas, gin and tonics, and scotch on the rocks.
Stock your home bar
In addition to essential spirits, Garten recommends stocking your home bar with a few mixers. Tonic, club soda, and ginger ale are must-haves for creating refreshing and bubbly mixed drinks. These mixers can be paired with any of the recommended spirits to create a wide variety of cocktails.
Garten also suggests having red and white wines on hand for those occasions when you prefer a glass of wine with your meal. Having a selection of wines allows you to cater to different tastes and ensures that you have something for everyone.
Expand your bar selection
Once you have the essential spirits and mixers, Garten encourages you to expand your bar selection based on your personal preferences and those of your friends. If you have room for more bottles, consider adding rum, tequila and other spirits that you and your guests enjoy. This will give you the flexibility to create a wider range of cocktails and cater to different tastes.
Signature Cocktail Recipes
If you’re looking to impress your guests or just want to try something new, Garten’s website offers a collection of signature cocktail recipes. Some of her notable creations include the Pomegranate Gimlet, which combines pomegranate and lime juices with gin; the Hot Apple Cider, which is infused with “good” bourbon; and the Extra Citrus Vodka Collins, which features both lemon and limoncello. These recipes showcase Garten’s creativity and expertise in mixology and are sure to raise your home bartending game.
Pairing Drinks with Snacks
No home bar is complete without some delicious snacks to accompany your drinks. Garten’s website also offers a variety of appetizer recipes that pair perfectly with cocktails. From fig and goat cheese toasts to chipotle and rosemary roasted nuts, these snacks will enhance the overall experience of enjoying drinks at home and impress your guests with their delicious flavors.
In conclusion, Ina Garten’s recommendations for essential spirits and mixers, along with her signature cocktail recipes and snack pairings, provide a comprehensive guide to creating a well-stocked and impressive home bar. By following Garten’s advice and adding your own personal touch, you’ll be able to make delicious cocktails and create memorable experiences for yourself and your guests. Cheers!
FAQS
What are the essential spirits that Ina Garten recommends?
Ina Garten recommends stocking your home bar with scotch, vodka, bourbon, and gin.
What cocktails can I make with these essential spirits?
These essential spirits can be used to make a variety of classic cocktails, such as vodka sodas, gin and tonics, and scotch on the rocks. They also serve as the base for many other cocktail recipes.
What mixers should I have in my home bar?
In addition to essential spirits, Ina Garten suggests stocking tonic, club soda, and ginger ale as essential mixers for creating refreshing and effervescent mixed drinks.
Should I have wine in my home bar?
Yes, Ina Garten recommends keeping both red and white wine on hand for those who prefer wine with their meals or as an alternative to cocktails.
What other spirits should I consider adding to my home bar?
If you have room for more bottles, Ina Garten suggests considering spirits like rum, tequila and other options that you and your guests enjoy to expand your bar selection and offer a wider variety of cocktail choices.
Are there any of Ina Garten’s signature cocktail recipes that I can try?
Yes, Ina Garten’s website offers a collection of signature cocktail recipes, including the Pomegranate Gimlet, Hot Cider with Bourbon, and Extra Citrusy Vodka Collins. These recipes showcase her creativity and expertise in mixology.