Inn the Kitchen Q & A: What Is Angostura Aromatic Bitters? (And How Can I Cook With It?)

Although I had heard of Angostura® aromatic bitters years ago, I had no idea what it actually was (or was used for) until I met Rodney Williams of the Strawberry Creek Inn B&B. Introduced to me as an exotic ingredient in many of his Caribbean-influenced recipes, Rodney’s knowledge and recommendations allowed me to explore the flavor and world of Angostura® aromatic bitters (including its uses in cocktails, cooking, baking and more) while photographing food for their upcoming cookbook. Because so many of you have asked, “What is Angostura® aromatic bitters?” I’m sharing the scoop with you today.

Currently distilled in Trinidad, its nearly 200-year-old recipe still a fiercely-guarded secret, Angostura® aromatic bitters experienced humble beginnings in the year 1824 at the hands of German doctor, Johann Gottlieb Benjamin Siegert. Determined to discover a natural cure for stomach disorders and fevers while working as Surgeon General in Simon Bolivar’s military hospital in Angostura, Venezuela, Siegert analyzed and combined tropical herbs, plants and spices in effort to bring his patients relief, calling his formula, at the time, “Amargo Aromatico.”

In short order, praise for Siegert’s aromatics spread from the port of Angostura on Venezuela’s Orinoco River across the world and “Amargo Aromatico” was in high demand: Exportation to England and Trinidad began in 1830. By the time of Siegert’s death in 1870, Angostura® aromatic bitters was internationally known and consumed, as it continues to be today.

Produced using the same recipe Dr. Siegert developed in 1824, Angostura® aromatic bitters is a versatile, natural, liquid flavor enhancer used in international and Caribbean recipes across the globe. Often described as “bitter-sweet,” “spicy,” and “robust,” Angostura® aromatic bitters is used to enhance the flavor of chocolate brownies, braised pork, Caribbean dressing, key lime pie, a variety of cocktails & mocktails, coffee, orange juice, and ice cream, among a variety of other foods & drink.

Is Angostura® aromatic bitters bitter?

While not bitter in flavor (when added to food and drinks), the term “bitters” is simply “the generic category for products made from gentian, aromatic herbs and spices.” ~ Angostura® Bitters – Fun Facts

Does It Have More Unusual Uses?

If you consider using natural, aromatic herbs and spices as a mosquito repellent unusual, then yes: Angostura® aromatic bitters is rumored to repel mosquitoes, although I have yet to try this and find out. Note: Angostura® aromatic bitters will stain any surface (cloth, wood, fibers, clothes, etc.) where it is allowed to come in contact and dry. For that reason, please use extreme caution if experimenting with this product as a personal mosquito repellent, or if you’re merely a messy cook in the kitchen.

Anything Else I Should Know?

For more information on Angostura® aromatic bitters, I recommend the following sites and articles:

• Angostura® aromatic bitters
• Angostura bitters

Where Can I Find & Buy Angostura® Aromatic Bitters?

This product should be easily found at any large grocery store (be sure to inquire in the liquor/mixer section), or at any well-stocked liquor shop. You can also save yourself the thrill of the hunt and purchase this product now through Inn Cuisine’s Amazon Store—in a matter of days it will be shipped directly to your door!

Have You Used Angostura® Aromatic Bitters In Your Own Cooking, Baking or Drink Mixing?

If so, consider leaving a comment on this post and sharing your experiences with other readers of Inn Cuisine

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