Fat-washing 101

May 9, 2023

Fat-washing 101

Fat-washing liquor is an exciting new way to infuse your spirits with all sorts of amazing flavors. By using fat as a carrier, you can impart the flavor and aroma of any ingredient into your favorite spirit. This method has been used in professional kitchens for years, but now it’s becoming more accessible to home bartenders looking to make unique and flavorful drinks. From bacon-infused bourbon to olive oil-washed vodka, there are endless possibilities when it comes to fat-washing liquor! So if you’re looking for a fun and creative way to mix up your cocktails, then why not give fat-washing liquor a try? You won’t be disappointed!

The Technique

Fat-washing liquor is a technique that involves infusing spirits with fatty ingredients like butter, bacon, or olive oil to add unique and interesting flavors. To make fat-washed liquor, you need to melt the fat of your chosen ingredient and mix it with your chosen liquor. The mixture is then left to sit for a while to allow the fat to infuse into the alcohol. Once the fat has settled to the bottom, the liquor is strained through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove any remaining fat or impurities. The resulting liquor has a rich, complex flavor profile that is perfect for cocktails. This technique is not only limited to spirits, but can also be used with wine, vermouth, or other fortified wines. Fat-washing liquor is a simple, yet effective way to elevate the flavors of your cocktails and impress your guests with your mixology skills.

Ingredients

To fat-wash vodka with olive oil, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 1 bottle of vodka (750ml)

– 1 cup of extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions:

1. Begin by placing the bottle of vodka in the freezer for a few hours. This will help to prevent the olive oil from clouding the vodka when added.

2. In a small saucepan, warm up the olive oil over medium heat until it becomes liquid.

3. Once the vodka is chilled, add the warm olive oil to the bottle of vodka.

4. Shake the bottle vigorously until the oil and vodka are well combined.

5. Allow the mixture to rest at room temperature for a few hours, or until the olive oil has completely infused with the vodka.

6. Place the bottle in the freezer once again to solidify the fat.

7. Once the fat has settled at the bottom of the bottle, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter. This will remove any remaining impurities and fat, leaving you with a smooth, flavorful vodka.

8. The fat-washed vodka can be used in a variety of cocktails. It has a rich and complex flavor that pairs well with savory and sweet ingredients alike.

 

Fat-washing vodka with olive oil is an innovative technique that allows you to create unique and delicious cocktails. It’s a simple yet effective way to add depth and complexity to your drinks without using artificial flavorings or additives. Give it a try and impress your guests with your mixology skills!

Visit The Wine and Spirits Cellar in Maryville, Tn for everything you need to get started experimeting with fat washing. Follow us on instagram for all our latest updates.