38 Facts About Angostura

What is Angostura?

Angostura is a name that rings a bell for many, especially those who enjoy a good cocktail. But there's more to Angostura than meets the eye. From its origins to its uses, let's dive into some fascinating facts about this iconic brand.

1. 01Angostura bitters were first created in 1824 by Dr. Johann Siegert, a German surgeon in the Venezuelan army.
2. 02The name "Angostura" comes from the town of Angostura (now Ciudad Bolívar) in Venezuela.
3. 03Originally, Angostura bitters were intended as a medicinal tonic to aid digestion and cure sea sickness.
4. 04The recipe for Angostura bitters remains a closely guarded secret, known only to a few people.
5. 05Angostura bitters are made from a blend of herbs and spices, including gentian root, which gives them their distinctive flavor.
6. 06Despite their name, Angostura bitters do not contain angostura bark.
7. 07The bitters are produced by the House of Angostura, a company based in Trinidad and Tobago.
8. 08Angostura bitters are a key ingredient in many classic cocktails, including the Old Fashioned, the Manhattan, and the Pink Gin.
9. 09The distinctive oversized label on the Angostura bottle was the result of a mistake. The label was too large for the bottle, but the company decided to keep it as a trademark feature.
10. 10Angostura bitters have won numerous awards, including the Gold Medal at the Vienna World Exposition in 1873.

Uses of Angostura Bitters

Angostura bitters are not just for cocktails. They have a variety of uses that might surprise you. Here are some interesting ways people use Angostura bitters.

11. 11Angostura bitters can be used to flavor food, such as soups, stews, and sauces.
12. 12A few drops of Angostura bitters can enhance the flavor of a fruit salad.
13. 13Some people use Angostura bitters as a remedy for hiccups.
14. 14Angostura bitters can be added to soda water to create a refreshing non-alcoholic drink.
15. 15They can be used to marinate meat, adding a unique flavor to dishes.
16. 16Angostura bitters can be used in baking, adding depth to cakes and cookies.
17. 17Some chefs use Angostura bitters in their barbecue sauce recipes.
18. 18Angostura bitters can be used to make a unique ice cream flavor.
19. 19They can be added to coffee or hot chocolate for an extra kick.
20. 20Angostura bitters can be used to flavor whipped cream, making it a perfect topping for desserts.

Health Benefits of Angostura Bitters

While Angostura bitters are primarily known for their flavor, they also have some health benefits. Here are a few ways they can be good for you.

21. 21Angostura bitters can aid digestion, helping to relieve bloating and indigestion.
22. 22They can stimulate appetite, making them useful for people who have trouble eating.
23. 23Angostura bitters have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
24. 24They can help relieve nausea and motion sickness.
25. 25Angostura bitters can be used as a remedy for stomach cramps.
26. 26They have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
27. 27Angostura bitters can help improve circulation.
28. 28They can be used to relieve stress and anxiety.
29. 29Angostura bitters can help boost the immune system.
30. 30They can be used as a natural remedy for colds and flu.

Fun Facts About Angostura

Angostura bitters have a rich history and some fun trivia associated with them. Here are some fun facts that you might not know.

31. 31Angostura bitters were used by British Royal Navy officers in the 19th century to prevent seasickness.
32. 32The House of Angostura also produces rum, which is highly regarded in the spirits industry.
33. 33Angostura bitters were featured in the James Bond novel "Dr. No" by Ian Fleming.
34. 34The House of Angostura has a museum in Trinidad and Tobago dedicated to the history of the company and its products.
35. 35Angostura bitters are used in the famous Trinidad Sour cocktail, which features a full ounce of bitters.
36. 36The company produces over 20 million bottles of Angostura bitters each year.
37. 37Angostura bitters have been used in cooking competitions, such as the Iron Chef series.
38. 38The House of Angostura has a butterfly collection, which is one of the largest in the Caribbean.

The Final Sip

Angostura bitters have a rich history and a unique flavor that’s made them a staple in bars and kitchens worldwide. From their medicinal roots to their secret recipe, these bitters have stood the test of time. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or just curious, knowing these facts can deepen your appreciation for this iconic ingredient.

Remember, Angostura bitters aren’t just for drinks. They can enhance the flavor of various dishes, adding a complex, aromatic touch. Next time you’re mixing a drink or cooking, consider adding a dash of Angostura bitters. You might be surprised by the depth it brings.

So, next time you see that little bottle with the oversized label, you’ll know there’s a lot more to it than meets the eye. Cheers to discovering the fascinating world of Angostura bitters!