Boston SourCocktail recipe
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The Boston Sour is a classic cocktail that enhances the traditional Whiskey Sour by adding a luxurious textural element through the inclusion of egg white. It's a harmonious blend of tart lemon juice, the sweetness of sugar syrup, and the rich, full-bodied complexity of bourbon.
The addition of egg white creates a silky, frothy top layer, which not only adds a visual appeal but also a creamy mouthfeel that complements the sharpness of the citrus and the warmth of the whiskey. The Boston Sour is often served in a cocktail glass and is garnished with a lemon peel twist that adds an aromatic finishing touch to this sophisticated and balanced drink.
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Cocktail Colin says:
The Boston Sour is a delightful twist on the classic Whiskey Sour, adding a creamy, frothy dimension with the egg white that beautifully balances the sharpness of the lemon juice and the richness of bourbon. This cocktail mixes sweetness, acidity, and the velvety texture to create a sophisticated, multi-layered drink that comes alive with each sip, particularly suited for those who appreciate a deeper, aromatic cocktail experience.
Method
How to make a Boston Sour
- Bourbon 60ml, Lemon Juice 22.5ml, Sugar / simple Syrup 15ml, Egg 1 egg white
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- Add all the liquids and the egg white to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well
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- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon peel twist before serving
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Find out more- Perform a 'dry shake' (shaking without ice) first to emulsify the egg white, then add ice and shake again to chill.
- Double strain the cocktail to ensure a smooth texture by removing any potential ice shards or egg white clumps.
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FAQ's
What garnish is recommended for a Boston Sour?
A classic garnish for a Boston Sour is a cherry or a slice of orange. Sometimes, a lemon twist is also used to add a bit of elegance and to complement the citrus notes of the cocktail.
Can I make a Boston Sour without egg white?
Yes, you can make a Boston Sour without egg white, though the egg white is what gives the cocktail its distinctive frothy top and smooth texture. If you're avoiding egg white, you can use aquafaba (chickpea water) as a vegan alternative to achieve a similar frothiness.
What is the history behind the Boston Sour?
The Boston Sour is an evolution of the classic Whiskey Sour, with the addition of egg white to create a frothier, smoother drink. It originated in the late 19th or early 20th century, when the practice of adding egg white to cocktails to enhance their texture was becoming popular. The 'Boston' distinction was likely added to associate the drink with a sense of refined sophistication.
What is the best type of bourbon to use for a Boston Sour?
For a Boston Sour, it's recommended to use a bourbon that's well-balanced, with a good mix of sweetness and oakiness. A bourbon with a proof between 80 to 100 gives a nice balance without overpowering the other ingredients. Maker's Mark, Buffalo Trace, and Woodford Reserve are popular choices that complement the flavors of the cocktail.
How do I know if the egg white is safe to use in a cocktail?
To ensure the egg white is safe to use, consider purchasing pasteurized eggs, which have been treated to kill bacteria without cooking the egg. Alternatively, you can use liquid egg whites that are sold in cartons and are pasteurized. Always store your eggs properly and use them before the expiration date to minimize the risk of salmonella.
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