Understanding Cocktail Jiggers: A Beginner’s Guide
If you’re new to bartending, you may be overwhelmed by the various tools and techniques that come with the job. One essential tool you’ll need is a cocktail jigger – a measuring device used for measuring out precise amounts of liquid ingredients. But how do you read the measurements on a cocktail jigger?
Types of Cocktail Jiggers
Before we dive into how to read measurements on a cocktail jigger, it’s important to understand the different types of jiggers available. There are two main types: Japanese-style and American-style. Japanese-style jiggers have a more elongated shape and typically measure in milliliters, while American-style jiggers are shorter and measure in ounces.
How to Read a Japanese-Style Jigger
To read a Japanese-style jigger, look for the markings along the inner wall. These will typically be marked in milliliters and may include additional measurements like centiliters or ounces. To measure a specific amount of liquid, fill the jigger to the appropriate marking and pour into your cocktail shaker or glass.
How to Read an American-Style Jigger
To read an American-style jigger, look for the markings on the inner wall. These will be marked in ounces, with larger measurements on one side of the jigger and smaller measurements on the other. To measure a specific amount of liquid, fill the jigger to the appropriate marking and pour into your cocktail shaker or glass.
Tips for Accurate Measurements
When using a cocktail jigger, it’s important to be as precise as possible. Here are some tips for accurate measurements:
- Make sure the jigger is clean before use
- Hold the jigger at eye level for the most accurate measurements
- Pour slowly and steadily into the jigger to avoid spills or overflow
- Practice measuring water to get a feel for how the jigger works
- Use a conversion chart if needed to convert between ounces and milliliters
