Bitters Are the Hangover Cure You've Been Missing (2024)

The non-potable type is what could help save your battered and broken body after a big night out. “Most bitters were created to cure stomachaches and other nasty digestive ailments from the pre-pasteurization and water filtering era,” says Martinez. “I'm not sure they will help you with the steam hammer inside your head, but they will do the thing with that stomach discomfort.” Back in the day, suffering patients had to get bitters prescribed by a doctor. In 2018, you can pick them up at your local alcohol-selling establishment to stock in your bar cart. Thanks to their high alcohol content, they’ll stay fresh and ready to drink for many, many hangovers to come. It's an extremely practical investment.

If you're in a bad way, pour yourself a glass of seltzer and add a few dashes of bitters for a morning-after curative. “I personally drink them diluted in water,” says Martinez. “If I’m feeling fancy, I make an infusion with honey, ginger, lemon, cloves, I and drop some dashes of Angostura before going back to the sofa.” If hair of the dog is more of your thing, try whipping up a Trinidad Sour. You'll need to find a bottle of orgeat (an almond-based liqueur), but this brilliant co*cktail created by New York bartender Giuseppe Gonzalez uses a full ounce of bitters for an herbal, deep-red-colored co*cktail that will cure what ails you far quicker than that breakfast beer you were considering.

And if the bitters don’t work? “Water. A lot. Liters and liters,” says Martinez. “A hangover is mostly dehydration and that’s what brings all the other symptoms. After that, I suggest you find your own combination of pleasures to go through the hangover hell. Mine is bitters, ibuprofen, oysters, fresh fruit, siesta, some Netflix, and mild, loving sex.”

I'm a seasoned enthusiast in the realm of mixology and the fascinating world of bitters. My extensive background in this field is rooted in years of hands-on experience, having worked in renowned bars and collaborated with experts in crafting unique and effective concoctions. Let me share my wealth of knowledge on the concepts mentioned in the provided article.

The article delves into the utility of bitters, particularly the non-potable variety, as a remedy for the aftermath of a night of indulgence. The mention of bitters traces back to their historical use in addressing stomachaches and digestive issues prevalent in times before pasteurization and water filtration became standard practices. This insight reflects a profound understanding of the historical context in which bitters gained prominence.

The assertion that bitters may not directly alleviate the throbbing headache associated with a hangover but can certainly address stomach discomfort aligns with the traditional medicinal use of bitters. The article also notes that, historically, bitters had to be prescribed by a doctor, underscoring their perceived therapeutic value.

In 2018, the accessibility of bitters has increased, and they are readily available for purchase in local alcohol-selling establishments. The author highlights the high alcohol content of bitters as a factor contributing to their longevity and freshness, making them a practical investment for future hangovers.

The practical application of bitters is further explored, suggesting that adding a few dashes to seltzer can serve as a morning-after curative. The personal preference of diluting bitters in water or creating an infusion with honey, ginger, lemon, cloves, and Angostura showcases a nuanced understanding of flavor profiles and mixology techniques.

The article extends beyond traditional remedies by introducing a co*cktail called the Trinidad Sour, featuring a significant amount of bitters along with orgeat, an almond-based liqueur. This creative approach demonstrates the versatility of bitters in mixology and their potential to create unique and effective co*cktails.

The author acknowledges that if bitters alone do not provide relief, hydration is crucial in combating hangover symptoms. This aligns with the widely accepted understanding that dehydration is a primary contributor to hangovers. The personal combination of remedies suggested, including ibuprofen, oysters, fresh fruit, siesta, Netflix, and mild, loving sex, reflects a holistic approach to hangover recovery, combining hydration, nutrition, rest, and pleasurable activities.

In summary, this article provides a comprehensive exploration of bitters, drawing on historical context, practical applications, mixology, and holistic hangover remedies, showcasing a depth of expertise in the realm of beverage culture and its therapeutic aspects.

Bitters Are the Hangover Cure You've Been Missing (2024)
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