Why do you add egg white to co*cktails?
Egg white contains proteins that emulsify when it’s shaken up. This traps little pockets of air, which gives a drink like the Whisky Sour a very silky meringue-like texture that adds some lovely body to a co*cktail without changing the taste thereof. In sour drinks, it balances the mouthfeel with added texture, plus the creamy head looks very fancy! It’s no wonder this classic drink features on the IBA’s list of official co*cktails.
Learn more: Your Guide to Making Egg White co*cktails the Easy Way
How to handle raw eggs safely
When using egg whites in co*cktails, it’s very important to keep your workstation and utensils hygienic and clean. Start by washing your hands with warm, soapy water and drying them properly. Then do the same with your equipment, and also take care to wipe down your work surface with a warm, soapy cloth before drying it well. Repeat the process after you’ve made your classic Whiskey Sour co*cktail with egg white to leave things nice and hygienic.
Learn more co*cktail-making skills: 22 Sour co*cktail Recipes | Simple Syrup Recipe
How to make it vegan
Keen to try the Whiskey Sour but not too sure about the egg whites? No problem – there is a vegan version you can try! First things first, you’re going to need a tin of chickpeas. The liquid it comes in has been infused with the proteins from the chickpeas and goes frothy when whipped – just like egg whites.
It’s called aquafaba (‘bean water’), and you can use between 1.5 and 2 ounces of this liquid in the place of a single egg white. Just chill it well beforehand.
More tips for vegan drinks: Your Guide to Making Creamy Vegan co*cktails
When to serve a Whiskey Sour with egg whites
This easy Whiskey Sour recipe with egg white is super versatile. However, if we have to pinpoint a few occasions on which it is likely to steal the show, we’d recommend serving it as:
After-dinner co*cktails
The delightfully creamy texture of this drink makes it an excellent choice as an after-dinner co*cktail, especially if you weren’t planning on serving something sweet. Instead, you can invite your guests to relax in the lounge while you whip up a few drinks. Quite debonair!
More drinks like this: Best After Dinner Drinks to Delight Your Guests
Fall co*cktails
With its compelling notes of caramel and vanilla, slight lemony sourness, and perfectly sweet finish, the classic Whiskey Sour recipe with egg white is one of our favorite fall co*cktails. It provides a lovely counterpoint to the heavier dishes we tend to serve in cooler seasons but still has the warm and inviting flavor profile we crave when the leaves start to turn.
Sound good? Snuggle Up with These 10 Irresistible Fall co*cktails
What is the best type of whiskey for a Whiskey Sour?
When it comes to choosing the best type of whiskey for a Whiskey Sour, you’ll want to consider certain characteristics to ensure a balanced and delicious co*cktail. The following are some general guidelines:
Bourbon or rye whiskey. These are the most commonly used types of whiskey for a Whiskey Sour. Bourbon tends to be slightly sweeter and smoother, while rye whiskey offers a spicier and more robust flavor profile.
Quality and flavor. Opt for a mid-range to high-quality whiskey with a well-rounded flavor. Whiskey with a good balance of sweetness and complexity can elevate the taste of your Whiskey Sour.
Personal preference. Choose a whiskey that aligns with your personal taste preferences. If you enjoy the sweeter notes, go for a bourbon; if you prefer more spice and complexity, opt for rye.
Cask strength vs. standard. Cask-strength whiskeys have a higher alcohol content, which can significantly impact the co*cktail’s overall taste. If using a cask-strength whiskey, consider adjusting the amount of whiskey or sweet and sour components to achieve the desired balance.
Experimentation. Don’t hesitate to try different types of whiskey to find the one that best suits your taste buds. The Whiskey Sour is a versatile co*cktail that can work well with various whiskey styles.
Remember, the ideal whiskey for a Whiskey Sour ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the flavor profile you desire. It’s always a good idea to experiment with different whiskeys to discover the perfect one for your taste.
More of our favorite co*cktails with egg whites
Tickled by the idea of making frothy drinks with a silken mouth feel? Here are a few more of our favorite co*cktails with egg whites to try:
Clover Club co*cktail
Pisco Sour
Amaretto Sour
Gin Sour
Tequila Sour
More Whiskey Sour twists to try
New York Sour
Cranberry Orange Whiskey Sour
Pickle Juice Whiskey Sour
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