Daily Toast is an irreverent, drink-of-the-day app for the iPhone and Android™. It provides a different special occasion every day and a cocktail to match.

Tipsy's Tips: Mixers and Garnishes, Part 2

April 22, 2012

There is no limit to the number of mixers and garnishes that give an otherwise ordinary mixed drink its distinctive and complex flavor. Here are some of the not-so-basic ones:

  • Bitters (there are many, but the most popular is Angostura)
  • Worchestershire sauce
  • Tabasco sauce
  • Green olives and cocktail onions (martini-licious!)
  • Coffee (just brew it already-no instant coffee!)
  • Agave nectar (use instead of sugar, simple syrup, honey, and molasses, just reduce by 1/2 or 1/4, depending on how sweet you want it)

Cocktail recipes ask for all sorts of mixers and garnishes. Be prepared! Don't just read the ingredient list-read the directions, as well. Very often, garnishes are not even listed until the bottom of the recipe. And be creative! Presentation can elevate an average drink to an awesome drink!