Create Perfectly Clear Cocktail Ice With Directional Freezing
Crystal clear ice may not improve the flavor of the cocktail, but it will definitely make it more elegant and sophisticated. Using a process called directed freezing, you can make huge batches of perfectly clear ice without any expensive equipment.
In this video from the Cocktail Chemistry YouTube channel, you will learn how to use it to create glass-like ice that can be added to various cocktail styles. All you need is a small refrigerator with the lid removed and a serrated knife and hammer to cut ice. Fill the cooler with water (tap water will work), then put it in the freezer for about 24 hours. By then, there should be crystal clear ice. Then place a piece of clear ice on a cutting board and carve. You can make small ice cubes for general use, large whiskey cubes, and long cocktail cubes in tall glasses.
As the video explains, the cloud cover you see in most of the ice forms towards the end of the freezing process. Directional freezing in an insulated refrigerator – a process originally developed by Camper English of Alcademics – causes the water to freeze from top to bottom, which prevents the water in the cooler from freezing completely . In fact, you don’t want the water to freeze completely, because that’s when pollution starts to form. Using filtered or boiled water will help reduce turbidity to some extent, but this method guarantees maximum clarity.
Cocktail Chemistry – Pure Ice | Youtube