A slotted spoon is an implement used in food preparation. Most of its uses involve separating solid foods from liquids, such as taking vegetables from a pot of boiling water. A significant exception is the traditional absinthe ritual. In the beginning of absinthe preparation, a special absinthe spoon helps to flavor the cocktail. The spoon holds a sugar cube above a glass while the preparer pours cold water over the sugar. This counters possible bitterness from the wormwood in the liquor. Absinthe enthusiasts have expressed that the preparation ritual is one of the drink's attractions.

External links

• Hormel Foods culinary description of slotted spoons
• History Magazine article about slotted spoons and absinthe
• Drinknation.com article about the absinthe ritual
• SF Weekly a detailed narrative of an absinthe ritual
• Absinthe Spoons Vintage spoons at The Virtual Absinthe Museum.