Ice Pick and Ice Scoop: Essential Tools for Mastering Ice in Mixology
In the art of cocktail making, the ice pick and ice scoop are fundamental tools, each serving a specific and crucial role. An ice pick is indispensable for precisely shaping and sizing ice, while an ice scoop ensures hygienic handling and efficient ice transfer into glasses or shakers. Understanding and skillfully using these tools is key to crafting exceptional cocktails.
The Essential Roles of the Ice Pick and Ice Scoop
- Ice Pick: This tool is vital for breaking down large ice blocks into smaller, more manageable pieces. It allows bartenders to create custom-sized ice chunks perfect for different cocktail styles, from a large cube for a slow-melting Old Fashioned to crushed ice for a refreshing Mint Julep.
- Ice Scoop: A must-have for sanitary reasons, the ice scoop prevents direct hand contact with ice. It’s also crucial for efficiently transferring ice from the bin to the glass or shaker, maintaining the high-paced service flow in a busy bar.
Selecting the Right Ice Tools
When choosing an ice pick and scoop:
- Ice Pick: Look for a sturdy, well-balanced pick with a comfortable grip and control for precise ice breaking.
- Ice Scoop: Choose a durable scoop made from materials like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic with a shape that easily gathers and dispenses ice.
Cocktail Recipes Using Ice Pick and Scoop
Classic Old Fashioned (Ice Pick for Custom Ice Cube)
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 1 Sugar cube
- A few dashes of Angostura bitters
- Large ice cube (crafted with an ice pick)
- Orange twist for garnish
Instructions:
- Carve a large ice cube using the ice pick and place it in a rock glass.
- Muddle the sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water.
- Add whiskey and stir over the ice cube.
- Garnish with an orange twist.
Mint Julep (Ice Scoop for Crushed Ice)
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 1/2 oz Simple syrup
- Fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice (scooped)
- Mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
- Muddle mint leaves with simple syrup in a julep cup.
- Add bourbon.
- Use the ice scoop to fill the cup with crushed ice.
- Stir until the cup is frosty.
- Top with more crushed ice and garnish with a mint sprig.
Read more: In the equipment category, you can learn about the following bar tools and the recipes that can be prepared with them: atomizer, bar spoon, cold dripper, dehydrator, electric mixer, fine grater, ice pick and ice scoop, juicers, knife, lemon squeezer, measuring cup, mixing glass, muddler, shaker, strainer, tea strainer, tongs, and whipping siphon and soda siphon.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of the ice pick and ice scoop is a fundamental aspect of professional bartending. These tools enhance the efficiency and hygiene of the cocktail-making process and contribute significantly to enjoying a well-crafted drink’s aesthetic and sensory experience.