Fancy Garnishes

Published March 05, 2014

Have you ever wondered how bartenders make those little rose garnishes or fruit rind twizzles that arrive on the edge of your cocktail? The time and effort bartenders take to make these creations for dinner plates and beverages always impresses me.

Some of these little garnishes are quite easy to make at home (if you’re in the mood to impress your neighbours). But really, I have tried one or two and believe it or not, there are a few that even I can do.

So next time you whip up that lemon drop martini, why not try one of these to slip on the edge of your favourite guest’s glass?

Lemon/Lime Twist

This is supposedly one of the easiest cocktail garnishes to make. I tried it and my husband was even impressed.

Next time you’re in your local grocery store, pick up a few large-size lemons. You will also require a lemon or lime zester that can be found in any kitchen supply or department store.

Hold the lemon in your left hand and with the zester in your right hand, start at the top of the lemon and scrape the zester around in concentric circles all the way down the lemon. The best scenario is to do it all in one piece.

Once you have your lemon zest, curl it around a bamboo skewer as tightly as possible. Gently pull it off the skewer and cut it into small pieces to use as a twist garnish on the rim of a martini glass or champagne flute.

Orange Peel Rose

Roses are always pretty but when they’re made especially for a garnish they are something to be admired. This is no exception. It may look difficult to make at first but after a couple of tries you’ll be an expert.

First, using a small paring knife, make an orange peel approximately one-inch wide and three to four inches long. Once you have your peel, carefully roll it in your hand, skin side out, into a cylinder. Be sure to push up the centre roll so it takes on the appearance of a rose.

Once you’re satisfied with the size and shape of the rose you can either secure it with a small toothpick or make an incision through all the layers on the bottom and gently place it on a glass rim.

Star Fruit

I saved the easiest for last. If you happen to see star fruit at your local grocery store orspecialty grocer be sure to pick up a few. These beauties make wonderful garnishes and all you have to do is simply slice them into one-quarter-inch slices and insert them on the edge of a glass.