Black Walnut Bitters co*cktail Recipe (2024)

FAQs

How much bitters to use in a co*cktail? ›

Many classic co*cktails, like the Old Fashioned and Manhattan, call for a dash or two of Angostura to add bitterness and spice. A dash is anywhere between ⅛ and ¼ of a teaspoon. Be careful not to add too much as the bitters are strong in flavor and could overwhelm your co*cktail.

Ingredients. The botanical ingredients used historically in preparing bitters have consisted of aromatic herbs, bark, roots, and/or fruit for their flavor and medicinal properties. Some of the more common ingredients are cascarilla, cassia (Chinese cinnamon), gentian, orange peel, and cinchona bark.

It has an ABV (alcohol-by-volume) percentage of 6.4%, or said another way, Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters is 12.8 proof.

Bitters are concentrated flavor extracts made by infusing herbs, spices, roots, and other botanicals in alcohol. They are mostly used to add depth and complexity to co*cktails, enhancing the overall flavor profile and creating a more well-rounded drink.

There is anecdotal evidence of digestive issues, like diarrhea and stomach pain, caused by using black walnut. However, these and other possible side effects are not documented in studies or reviews. Only use black walnut supplements as directed to prevent potential adverse events.

Most recipes will call for a few dashes, this does not mean a few drops, it does indeed mean a few shakes into your co*cktail. You'll most likely be adding anywhere from ½ to a full teaspoon of bitters. If you're using a bottle with a dropper cap, remember that a couple of drops make a dash.

Some of the best co*cktail bitters available are Angostura, Regans' Orange, Peychaud's, Bittermens, and The Bitter Truth. A boom of commercially accessible bitters in myriad diverse tastes has accompanied the 21st-century co*cktail revolution. There are hundreds of different variations to pick from.

With bitters, a little bit goes a long way. Two or three drops will add much depth to your Old Fashioned.

For the most part, while bitters are great as a co*cktail enhancer, they shouldn't be something you consume on their own.

Liver health benefits

Bitters give the liver a boost by aiding in the elimination of toxins and detoxification, coordinating the metabolism of sugar and fats, and helping release gallbladder-supporting hormones like cholecystokinin (CCK).

Why are bitters not illegal? ›

During Prohibition, bitters emerged as a so-called cure-all. Though the stuff — a strong solution of herbs, spices, roots and a base spirit — can pack a 90-proof punch, stores labeled the bottles “non-potable,” allowing people to buy it legally.

If your gastrointestinal tract is working well on its own — or if it's already working overtime — consuming bitters may actually backfire. Bitters create more gastric acid in your stomach, which can actually contribute to digestive issues in people who are predisposed to them: Acid reflux. Bloating.

Building Your Bitters

Yes, it's a little weird, but that's the industry standard. The ratio is 4:1 (alcohol:plant parts) for dried plants and 2:1 (alcohol:plant parts) for fresh or frozen.

How Long Do Bitters Last? While we hate to see a bottle of bitters collecting dust on your home bar they do last indefinitely. They are bottled at about 70 proof or 35% alcohol, so they are perfectly preserved. However, it is possible that the flavor will change over time.

Black walnut uses

Due to its antibacterial properties, black walnut extract is used in wormwood complex supplements. Wormwood complex is a tincture made from black walnut hulls, a plant called wormwood, and cloves. It's a natural remedy against parasitic infections.

Black walnut is used to treat parasitic worm infections and certain other infections including diphtheria and syphilis. It is also used for leukemia. Some people use black walnut as a gargle, apply it to the scalp as hair dye, or put it on the skin to treat wounds.

As an herbal supplement, take 1/2-2 mL (approx. 14-56 drops) two to three times daily in juice or water before meals and/or at bedtime. This product is best used by gradually increasing dosage over a two week period with a one week break before repeating.

Black walnut (Juglans nigra) is a tree native to the US that's harvested for its wood and edible nuts. The tree bark has been used in traditional medicine. Black walnut contains high concentrations of chemicals called tannins, which can reduce pain and swelling and dry up body fluids such as mucous.