When it comes to measuring a shot without a shot glass, don’t worry, there are several handy alternatives that you can use in a pinch. While a shot glass is the standard tool for measuring shots, sometimes you might find yourself without one. So, let’s explore some creative methods to help you measure your shot accurately!
1. Use a Tablespoon
If you don’t have a shot glass on hand, a tablespoon can be a great substitute. As a general rule, one tablespoon is equivalent to half an ounce or about one shot. So, you can simply pour your preferred spirit into a tablespoon and use that as a reliable measurement.
2. Utilize a Medicine Cup
Another option you can consider is using a medicine cup. These small plastic cups that often come with liquid medications are usually marked with measurement lines. Many medicine cups have markings for ounces, making them a suitable substitute for a shot glass.
3. Measure with a Jigger
A jigger is a bartending tool used for measuring and pouring liquors. It typically has two sides, with one measuring one ounce and the other measuring half an ounce. If you have a jigger lying around, it can be an excellent alternative to a shot glass.
4. Get Creative with a Small Glass
If you can’t find any of the aforementioned options, don’t fret. A small glass, such as a juice glass or even a narrow water glass, can work in a pinch. Keep in mind that shot glasses are usually around 1.5 ounces, so use a smaller glass and measure accordingly.
5. Use a Kitchen Measuring Cup
If all else fails, your trusty kitchen measuring cup can come to the rescue. Most measuring cups come with ounce markings, making it easy to measure out the desired shot amount. Just remember to use the appropriate conversion if you need a shot that is less than an ounce.
6. Consider Using a Shot Dispenser
If you frequently find yourself without a shot glass, investing in a shot dispenser can be a practical solution. Shot dispensers are specially designed to pour a specific shot amount, making it simple to measure without any guesswork.
7. Improvise with a Bottle Cap
When in dire need, a bottle cap can be surprisingly handy. While it may not provide the most precise measurement, a bottle cap usually holds about one ounce, making it a reasonable substitute for a shot glass in a pinch.
8. Use a Digital Kitchen Scale
If you have a digital kitchen scale at home, it can be a useful tool for measuring shots. Simply place your glass or container on the scale, zero it out, and pour your desired spirit until you reach the desired weight equivalent to a standard shot size.
9. Eyeball It
If you’re feeling confident, you can always try eyeballing the shot. While this method is far from precise, it can work if you have a general sense of the shot size you’re aiming for. Just be aware that it may not be accurate, and you might end up with a stronger or weaker shot than expected.
10. Measuring Spoon
If you have a measuring spoon set in your kitchen, you can use it to measure out a shot. Typically, a tablespoon measures around half an ounce, while a teaspoon measures around one-sixth of an ounce. Pick the appropriate spoon and adjust the quantities accordingly.
11. Use a Syringe
While it may not be the most common method, a syringe without a needle can be a viable option for measuring a shot. Syringes often have clear markings for different units of measurement, allowing you to accurately measure the desired shot size.
12. Practice the Pour Count
If all else fails, you can rely on the pour count method. Experienced bartenders often develop an instinct for pouring shots by counting the seconds it takes to pour. By perfecting this technique, you can consistently pour shots without the need for any measuring tools.
