Setting up a home bar doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few essential tools, you can easily make a wide variety of classic cocktails. Here are the 5 must-have pieces of equipment to get your home bar started:
1. Cocktail Shaker
A shaker is crucial for mixing and chilling drinks like Margaritas and Mojitos. It helps blend the ingredients and break up solids (like herbs or fruit). A Cobbler Shaker is great for beginners since it includes a built-in strainer.
2. Jigger
This small measuring tool ensures precise pours, which is key for a balanced cocktail. A standard jigger typically has measurements for 1 oz and 1.5 oz, making it easy to follow recipes and get consistent results.
3. Strainer
After shaking, you'll need to strain your drink to remove ice and other solids. The Hawthorne Strainer is the most common and fits snugly over your shaker to filter your drinks smoothly.
4. Muddler
If you’re making cocktails like Mojitos or Old Fashioneds, a muddler is essential for crushing ingredients like mint, fruits, or sugar. It helps release their natural flavors for a better-tasting drink.
5. Glassware
The right glass can elevate your drink experience. At a minimum, you’ll want highball glasses (for drinks like Gin & Tonic), rocks glasses (for whiskey-based drinks like Old Fashioneds), and cocktail glasses (for drinks like Martinis).
With these 5 tools, you'll have everything you need to make most classic cocktails and enjoy the art of bartending at home!