The spelling of "angostura bitters" might seem complicated, but it becomes clear when using International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) phonetic transcription. "Angostura" is pronounced /æŋɡəˈstjʊrə/, while "bitters" is pronounced /ˈbɪtərz/. The word "angostura" comes from a city in Venezuela, and "bitters" refers to the bitter taste of this concentrate used to add flavor to drinks. Despite its intricate spelling, "angostura bitters" is a popular ingredient in cocktail recipes and a staple in many bars around the world.
Angostura bitters refers to a highly concentrated, alcoholic botanical preparation that imparts a distinctive and aromatic flavor to various cocktails and culinary creations. It is a type of aromatic bitters that originated in Venezuela, specifically from the city of Angostura, hence its name.
Angostura bitters is made from a secret formula that includes a variety of botanical ingredients, primarily the extracts from the gentian root, a plant known for its medicinal properties. These botanicals are infused in a neutral spirit base and left to macerate for a considerable period. The resulting liquid is then aged in oak barrels, allowing the flavors to blend and mature.
This reddish-brown aromatic bitters offers a complex and intense flavor profile, characterized by its combination of bitter, sweet, and herbal notes. It has a slightly floral aroma accompanied by hints of spices, such as cloves and cinnamon. Due to its concentrated nature, only a few dashes or drops of Angostura bitters are needed to enhance the taste of a cocktail or dish.
Beyond cocktails, Angostura bitters is also commonly used as a culinary ingredient to add depth and complexity to various recipes. It can be employed in marinades, sauces, desserts, and even in non-alcoholic beverages to provide a unique and robust flavor.
Angostura bitters has become a staple in the world of mixology and cooking, appreciated for its ability to elevate the taste and aroma of a wide range of culinary creations.
The word "Angostura" in "Angostura Bitters" comes from the town of Angostura, which is now called Ciudad Bolívar, located in Venezuela. The term "Angostura" itself means "narrow" or "constricted" in Spanish, referring to the narrow passage of the Orinoco River near the town.
The bitters were originally created by a German physician named Dr. Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert in the early 19th century. Dr. Siegert was a Surgeon General in Simon Bolívar's army, and he created the bitters as a medicinal remedy to treat stomach ailments that were common among soldiers. He used a mix of botanicals and spices, including gentian root, along with the medicinal qualities of Angostura bark, which gave the bitters their name.