Rich, flavorful, and with smoky undertones, bourbon is the quintessential gentleman’s drink. The barrel-aged American whiskey has a storied history, originating in southern Kentucky. 

Starting its journey from the fermented mash of grain, yeast and water, bourbon must age for at least two years to earn its moniker. Anything less and it’s just another whiskey.

The distinct taste, characterized by hints of vanilla, butterscotch and honey, the amber alcoholic drink is best enjoyed neat. For decades, the drink has been the preferred alcoholic beverage in restaurants across the globe to elevate a dish. That means you can do more than enjoy a drink. 

Whether you’re a novice cook or an old hack and haven’t added bourbon to your repertoire yet, what are you waiting for? Below, we’ll give six reasons to cook with bourbon.

#1. Depth of Flavor

Food writer and photographer Lori Rice tells The Alcohol Professor that bourbon has a rich depth in flavor. This is something that other spirits lack. Toasted oak notes and peppery spice makes it the perfect accompaniment to savory dishes.

The preferred choice is to select a bourbon with spicy undertones. The Weller Full Proof, included in the Weller Bourbon lineup, encapsulates the sweetness of vanilla and candied caramel, while layers of oaky notes bring the heat and spice.

#2. Southern Cuisine

Author and restauranter Chef Edward Lee explores the history of bourbon in the Bluegrass state in his latest cookbook Bourbon Land. The spirit is at the heart of every recipe, from bourbon-cured salmon salad to slow-grilled Chinese eggplant in bourbon miso. 

Chef Edward tells Garden & Gun that the drink’s versatility makes it more than just an accompaniment to grilling and barbecue. He hopes to ingrain bourbon’s culinary legacy into Kentucky culture. 

Lee’s best advice to cooks is not to take an entire bottle and reduce it down. Bourbon is more subtle. Take your time when cooking and slow down. And no, it doesn’t need to be an expensive bourbon.

The Liquor Bros says spirit aficionados can purchase a decent bottle below $30 without compromising quality and flavor.

#3. Sweet and Smoky

Kentucky Derby Chef Robert Lopez cooks with bourbon in stews, cakes, breads and pies. He believes the nuance and flavor celebrate the spirit’s inventiveness.

Chef Robert says the overriding flavors in bourbon make a huge difference when cooking with it. Lean into the flavors that highlight sweet and smoky notes. This makes it ideal for sauces and marinades.

He adds that homemade bourbon barbecue sauce highlights the complex flavors of bourbon. Choose a bottle with brown sugar or honey notes to get to the heart of the sauce.

#4. Unique Twist

Baking with bourbon can unlock a whole new taste profile. Experts advise adding a splash to your favorite cookie or cake recipe. The spirit pairs well with dark chocolate, pecans and caramel. 

Desserts merit a bold sprinkling of heady spice and sweet fruit notes. Hints of nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger work well with baked desserts to heighten the robust flavor profile. 

Even an otherwise bland dessert deserves imagination. Elevate it with a high-rye bourbon.

#5. Sophisticated Upgrade

Something magical happens when bourbon is added to banana bread, says The Manual. 

The delicious baked treat is a comforting reminder of home. But what if you could elevate the flavors even more? The publication suggests adding a splash of bourbon to your gran’s traditional recipe can increase the mildly sweet taste of something out of this world.

Banana bread gets an instant upgrade that “feels gourmet and special,” says The Manual. Caramel, smoke and spice complement the warm, natural sweetness of banana bread. 

#6. Succulent Steaks

A good marinade or barbecue sauce is an integral part of cooking the perfect steak. When bourbon enters the picture, it can make a difference. And here we’re talking about wheated-bourbon. 

Renowned for its smoother, sweeter profile, wheated-bourbon is made by replacing traditional rye grain with wheat in the mash bill. The result is a smoother, milder taste.

Wheated-bourbons go well with steak. Pour a shot over the top and let it mix with the meat’s juices. 

The iconic American whiskey is enjoying a renaissance, thanks to chefs incorporating the spirit into their specialty dishes. From desserts to barbecues to glazes, there’s no telling how far the imagination can stretch.

Get in on the fun and let your creativity run wild. Experimenting with the perfect bourbon could yield some recipes you’ll be proud of.