Bourbon Sour

Introduction

History

The Bourbon Sour is part of the larger family of sour cocktails, which have been popular since the 19th century. The basic formula of spirit, sugar, and citrus has been adapted in countless ways, but the Bourbon Sour specifically has its roots in the American South, where bourbon is king. The exact origins are a bit murky, as with many classic cocktails, but it's clear that by the late 1800s, the Bourbon Sour was a well-established favorite.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To make the perfect Bourbon Sour, ensure your ingredients are of high quality. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is a must for the best flavor. When shaking the cocktail, do so vigorously to properly dilute the drink and add a nice frothiness to the texture. Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less superfine sugar.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bourbon Sour in a classic whiskey sour glass or a coupe glass for an elegant presentation. A slice of orange or a cherry can be added as a garnish for an extra touch of sophistication.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing a Bourbon Sour is the shake. A vigorous shake not only chills the drink but also properly integrates the ingredients, creating a smooth and cohesive flavor profile.

Ingredient Substitutions

If bourbon isn't your spirit of choice, feel free to substitute it with another whiskey or even a dark rum for a different take on the classic sour. Agave syrup can be used as a vegan alternative to superfine sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

While the Bourbon Sour is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare a large batch of the lemon juice and sugar mixture ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and simply add bourbon and ice when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with a thin slice of lemon or orange and a cherry for a classic look. For a more modern presentation, try a dehydrated lemon wheel or a sprig of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

Pairing Recommendations

The Bourbon Sour pairs beautifully with savory appetizers like bacon-wrapped dates or cheese platters. It also complements grilled meats and barbecue, balancing the richness of the food with its refreshing acidity.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

As a cocktail, the Bourbon Sour is not suitable for storage or reheating. It should be prepared fresh and enjoyed immediately.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A standard serving of Bourbon Sour contains approximately 150 calories. The majority of these calories come from the bourbon itself, with a smaller contribution from the sugar.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Bourbon Sour contains approximately 4 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the lemon juice and sugar. This makes it a relatively low-carb option for those monitoring their intake.

Fats

The Bourbon Sour is virtually fat-free, making it a light and refreshing choice that can fit into various dietary preferences.

Proteins

This cocktail contains negligible amounts of protein, as it is primarily composed of bourbon, lemon juice, and sugar.

Vitamins and minerals

Lemon juice provides a modest boost of vitamin C, an essential nutrient known for its antioxidant properties and support of the immune system. However, the amounts are relatively small given the serving size of the drink.

Alergens

The Bourbon Sour is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, gluten, and soy, making it suitable for individuals with these dietary restrictions. However, those with sensitivities to alcohol should obviously abstain.

Summary

Overall, the Bourbon Sour is a relatively low-calorie cocktail option that is low in carbohydrates and fats, contains minimal protein, and offers a small amount of vitamin C. It is also free from common allergens.

Summary

The Bourbon Sour is a timeless cocktail that combines the warmth of bourbon with the tang of lemon juice, balanced by a hint of sweetness. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a versatile drink that can be enjoyed in its classic form or customized with various twists. Whether you're a cocktail aficionado or new to the world of mixed drinks, the Bourbon Sour is a delightful addition to any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha's house for a small gathering. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most amazing aroma. Martha was busy mixing ingredients in a cocktail shaker, a mischievous smile on her face.

"Hey there, Helen! Have you ever tried a Bourbon Sour before?" she asked, handing me a glass filled with a golden liquid.

I took a sip and was instantly hooked. The combination of bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup was like nothing I had ever tasted before. It was sweet, tangy, and had just the right amount of kick from the bourbon.

"Martha, this is incredible! How did you come up with this recipe?" I asked, feeling a wave of curiosity wash over me.

Martha chuckled and explained that she had learned the recipe from her grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, each person adding their own twist to make it their own.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this cocktail for myself. I begged Martha to share the recipe with me, and she happily obliged. As she wrote down the ingredients and instructions on a scrap piece of paper, I couldn't wait to try it out in my own kitchen.

The next day, I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work making my very first Bourbon Sour. I carefully measured out the bourbon, lemon juice, and simple syrup, following Martha's instructions to a tee. After shaking it all together with ice, I strained the mixture into a glass and garnished it with a cherry.

I took a sip and was transported back to Martha's kitchen, the memories of that warm summer day flooding back to me. The cocktail was just as delicious as I remembered, and I knew I had found a new favorite drink.

Over the years, I continued to make Bourbon Sours for family and friends, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own taste. Some liked it a bit sweeter, others preferred it more tart, but everyone agreed that it was a winning combination.

As I shared the recipe with others, I began to realize just how special it was. It wasn't just a drink, but a piece of history passed down from generation to generation. The Bourbon Sour had a story to tell, and I was honored to be a part of it.

One day, as I was making a batch of Bourbon Sours for a family gathering, my granddaughter came into the kitchen and asked what I was up to. I explained the recipe to her, the origins of it, and the memories it held for me.

"Grandma, that sounds amazing! Can you teach me how to make it too?" she asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

I smiled and nodded, knowing that I was passing down more than just a recipe to her. I was passing down a piece of our family's history, a tradition that would hopefully live on for generations to come.

As my granddaughter and I made Bourbon Sours together, I couldn't help but feel grateful for all the recipes I had collected over the years. Each one held a special place in my heart, each one a reminder of the people and places that had shaped me into the cook I was today.

And as we raised our glasses in a toast to family, tradition, and good food, I knew that the Bourbon Sour would always hold a special place in our hearts. It wasn't just a cocktail - it was a story, a memory, a piece of who we were. And that, to me, was the true beauty of cooking.

Categories

| American Recipes | Bourbon Drink Recipes | Lemon Juice Recipes | The Bartending School's Recipes |

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