How to pour alcohol using the free pouring technique
The free pouring technique is one of the most commonly used techniques by bartenders to pour alcohol in cocktails. This technique requires skill and precision, but once mastered, it can make a difference in preparing an excellent drink.
In this article, we will explore the necessary steps to learn how to pour alcohol using the free pouring technique. We will see what tools are needed, how to regulate the liquid flow, and how to count seconds to obtain the right amount of alcohol.
But before we begin, it's important to emphasize that practice is fundamental. Don't be afraid to make mistakes because only through experience can you become an expert in free pouring.
What you need for free pouring
- Bottles of alcohol
- Jigger or measuring cup (optional)
- Shaker or mixing glass
- Non-slip mat
In addition to these tools, it will be useful to have a timer or clock on hand to control the pouring time of the alcohol.
Necessary Tools for Free Pouring
To execute the free pouring technique, it's important to have the right tools at your disposal. Here's a list of what you'll need:
- Bottles with droplet spout: These bottles are essential for pouring alcohol precisely and controlled.
- Jigger: A jigger is a measuring tool used to dose ingredients. Make sure you have a jigger with correct measurements for your favorite cocktails.
- Mixing glasses: These glasses are used to mix ingredients before pouring them into the shaker or glass. They are available in various materials such as stainless steel and glass.
- Mixer: If you're preparing many cocktails at once, it may be useful to have an electric mixer to simplify the mixing process.
- Glasses: Make sure you have a variety of glasses for each type of cocktail you want to prepare. Tall, short, tulip-shaped, etc. Each cocktail requires a specific glass.
Remember that the free pouring technique requires practice and patience. Don't get discouraged if you don't get the right amount of alcohol immediately. Keep practicing, and soon you'll be able to pour precisely like a professional.
Free Pouring Technique Step by Step
To execute the free pouring technique correctly, it's necessary to follow some simple steps. Here's how to do it:
1. Prepare the right tools
Before starting, make sure you have everything you need on hand: shaker, measuring cup, strainer, and of course, the bottles of alcohol you intend to use.
2. Hold the bottle with your dominant hand
The dominant hand is the one with which you are more skilled in making precise and controlled movements. Typically, if you are right-handed, you will hold the bottle with your right hand (and vice versa).
3. Slowly pour the alcohol into the measuring glass
While holding the bottle with your dominant hand, slowly pour the alcohol into the measuring glass held by your non-dominant hand. Remember to tilt the bottle slightly to facilitate the flow of alcohol.
4. Check the amount poured
Carefully observe the level of alcohol in the measuring glass to verify that you are respecting the doses specified in the cocktail recipe.
5. Pour the alcohol into the serving glass
After checking the amount poured, pour the alcohol into the serving glass. Remember to hold a strainer over the glass to filter out any impurities.
6. Repeat with other alcohols
Repeat the previous steps with other alcohols specified in the cocktail recipe. Remember to clean the measuring glass thoroughly between uses to avoid contamination.
7. Mix the cocktail
After pouring all of the alcohols, mix the cocktail with a shaker or bar spoon until you achieve your desired blend.
By following these simple steps, you will be able to execute free pouring technique precisely and controlled, always achieving excellent results!
Common mistakes to avoid during free pouring
Despite being relatively simple, there are some common mistakes that beginner bartenders can make when using free pouring. Here are some of them:
- Pouring too quickly: When pouring alcohol too quickly, it's easy to pour too much and spill out of the glass. Additionally, a fast pour can cause an uneven mixture.
- Pouring at the wrong angle: If you pour at the wrong angle, the alcohol may end up on the edge of the glass instead of mixing correctly in the drink.
- Not considering the size of the glass: Each glass has a different capacity, and pouring too much alcohol into a small glass can easily make it overflow.
- Not paying attention to the consistency of the drink: If the consistency of the drink is not uniform, it could mean that you haven't mixed well enough or that you have poured ingredients incorrectly.
- Not calculating exact ingredient amounts: To achieve perfect blending, it's important to measure ingredient amounts accurately. Not doing so could compromise the taste of your drink.
Always remember to take your time when pouring alcohols with free pouring technique. Practice and experiment to find the right balance between speed, angle, and amount of alcohol that works best for you.
Conclusion and practical advice
In conclusion, free pouring technique may seem intimidating at first, but with a little practice it becomes easy and fun. Always remember to follow safety and hygiene rules to avoid accidents and contamination.
Here are some practical tips to improve your skill:
- Practice with water before moving on to alcohol to get comfortable with timing and necessary amounts;
- Keep the bottle spout close to the glass rim to avoid splashes or spills;
- Maintain a consistent arm position while pouring, so you have a steady flow;
- If you need precise measurements, use a jigger or measuring cup instead of free pouring.
Remember that free pouring technique takes time and practice to master, but once acquired it will allow you to create perfect cocktails without having to measure every single ingredient.
Conclusion of the article
As we have seen, free pouring technique is one of the most used techniques by professional bartenders for pouring alcohol into cocktails. This technique requires some practice and skill, but over time it will become easy and allow you to create perfect cocktails without having to measure every single ingredient. Always remember to follow safety and hygiene rules to avoid accidents and contaminations. Use the practical tips we provided to improve your skill in free pouring technique.
Michael Anderson - Software Engineer
My name is Michael Anderson, and I work as a computer engineer in Midland, Texas.
My passion is sharing my knowledge in various areas, and my purpose is to make education accessible to everyone. I believe it is essential to explain complex concepts in a simple and interesting way.
With GlobalHowTo, I aim to motivate and enrich the minds of those who want to learn.
