Kevin Kos’ Ultimate Mixologist Guide

The Ultimate Mixologist’s Guide: Special Ingredients to Elevate Your Cocktails

For those who are passionate about creating exceptional cocktails, knowing which special ingredients to use can make all the difference. In a recent collaboration, Kevin Kos, the renowned mixologist and YouTube star, takes us through an episode he had been eager to create for a long time. In this video, Kevin shares his shopping list of essential cocktail ingredients, explaining not only where to find them but also how and why they should be used. As your partner in premium ingredients, Special Ingredients Europe is proud to support Kevin in showcasing these must-haves for any aspiring or professional mixologist.

The Basics: Acids for Balance and Depth

One of the first key components discussed is acids. Acids like citric acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, and ascorbic acid powders are highlighted for their ability to enhance flavor and lower pH in cordials, allowing them to act as both sweet and sour components in cocktails. Acids can also improve mouthfeel, as Kevin mentions from his insights gained through Liquid Intelligence by Dave Arnold. Want to experiment with these acids in your creations? Check out our selection of food-grade acids that are available in a variety of sizes.

Emulsifiers and Stabilizers: The Secret to Silky Cocktails

Kevin then moves on to emulsifiers, stabilizers, and gelling agents like Gum Arabic and Xanthan Gum, which are used to stabilize and thicken mixtures, preventing oil and water from separating. He shares how these ingredients have been game-changers for him when creating unique textures and foams in cocktails. Whether it’s a vegan egg-white replacement with Methyl Cellulose or a stabilizing agent for syrups, these ingredients are indispensable. Explore our range of emulsifiers and stabilizers to start experimenting.

Clarifying and Adding Texture with Specialty Agents

For those who love clear cocktails, Kevin recommends agar agar and Pectinex for their ability to clarify juices and cordials without altering the taste. These ingredients help trap solids for easy filtration, resulting in crystal-clear beverages. Discover our clarifying agents and thickeners to achieve stunning presentations in your drinks.

Enhancing Flavor and Aroma

Flavoring agents are essential for depth and character. In the video, Kevin discusses using Almond Flavor Drops for clear orgeat and essential oils for aromatics. He stresses the importance of using high-quality, food-grade oils, such as lemon, lime, orange, and mint oils. Browse our wide variety of natural flavoring agents to add the perfect touch to your cocktails.

Decorative and Unique Garnishes

To add a touch of elegance, Kevin introduces isomalt as a versatile sugar substitute ideal for creating stable, edible decorations. From meringue garnishes to sugar art, isomalt offers endless possibilities. Check out our isomalt and other decorative ingredients for your next masterpiece.

A Perfect Gift for Cocktail Enthusiasts

Kevin concludes the episode by recommending the Modern Gastronomy Kit, a curated bundle that includes 11 specialty ingredients and equipment essential for the modern mixologist. This kit, complete with recipes from an award-winning chef, is perfect as a holiday gift or personal treat. Get your hands on one of our Gastronomy Kits to elevate your home cocktail experience.

Ready to Transform Your Cocktail Game?

If you’re inspired by Kevin Kos’s approach and want to experiment with new ingredients, Special Ingredients Europe has you covered. Our curated collection of premium ingredients will help you achieve professional-quality cocktails at home or in your bar. Check out our full range on our website and elevate your mixology skills to the next level.

Until next time, cheers!