7 Specialty Citrus Tools You Need For Your Home Bar

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Citrus juices and garnish shows up in so many cocktail recipes. Just a few simple tools will make it so much easier to squeeze juices and shape garnishes.

Most single use tools aren’t really necessary, but that’s not true of many citrus tools. For example, you could juice an orange by sticking the rounded end of a knife into it, but then you’ve got seeds falling out all over the place.

Yellow citrus squeezer on wooden cutting board

And there are some other tools that are much easier than a knife for making citrus garnishes. When you’re setting up your home bar, you can include all of these or just one or two. It depends on your preferences.

The Specialty Citrus Tools You Need For Your Home Bar

Juicing Tools

So many recipes call for juicing citrus fruit. Having a juicy tool that strains out the pulp and seeds is crucial for any home bar.

Zesting Tools

Zesting is a technique that involves removing the outermost layer of citrus fruit, which contains the flavorful essential oils in very thin strips. Specialty zesting tools such as microplane graters and channel knives are perfect for this task.

Microplane graters are ideal for creating fine citrus zest, while channel knives allow for the creation of long, elegant citrus twists.

Note that you can use the finest side of a simple cheese grater for this task, too.

Peeling Tools

Peeling citrus fruits for garnish requires precision and finesse. Traditional peelers may not always produce the desired results.

This is where specialty citrus peelers come into play. Tools like Y-peelers and citrus strippers are designed specifically for efficiently and neatly peeling citrus fruits, ensuring that you get consistent and visually appealing results every time.

Choosing the Right Tools

When selecting specialty citrus tools for cocktail garnish, it’s important to consider factors such as durability, ease of use, and versatility. Stainless steel tools are often preferred for their longevity and resistance to corrosion.

Ergonomic designs and non-slip grips can make the garnishing process more comfortable and efficient. And less accident-prone.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance will make sure your tools stay in great condition for years to come. Most tools can be easily cleaned with warm soapy water and a brush to remove any residual citrus oils and pulp. Some are also dishwasher safe.

It’s also important to store the tools in a dry environment to prevent rust or corrosion.

Creative Garnishing Techniques

Once you have acquired the right specialty citrus tools, the possibilities for creative garnishing are endless. Experiment with different types of citrus fruits, varying cuts, and combinations to create visually stunning and flavorful garnishes that will impress your guests and elevate the overall cocktail experience.

Showcasing Your Skills

Incorporating specialty citrus tools into your cocktail preparation not only enhances the visual appeal of your drinks but also showcases your dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or working behind the bar, mastering the art of citrus garnishing will set you apart as a skilled mixologist.

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Last Updated:

January 8, 2024