Uses for bitters besides cocktails

[roxlet]

My husband received a gift of every type and flavor of bitters for Christmas the year before last (grapefruit, orange, lemon, mint and peach). Since that time, they have sat, unused and taking up space, in a cabinet next to a cocktail shaker. At the time, I thought it was a brilliant gift idea for him since he loves to mix up unusual cocktails, but somehow these drinks never seem to include bitters. There must be other uses for them. Has anyone ever used bitters for anything other than cocktails?

[gingershelley]

I drink bitters and soda water all the time. I like the slightly bitter edge. I am not a fan of sweet soda, so this is very refreshing, usually with a slice of orange, lemon or lime as well, depending on the bitters I am using.

[magiesmom]

people take them as digestive aids in water.

[Caitlin McGrath]

I've been wanting to try this Chow recipe for preserved lemon and bitters vinaigrette (and the fennel and celery salad it goes with): http://www.chow.com/recipes/11136-pre...

It calls for Angostura bitters, but also might give you some ideas for your flavored bitters.

[JungMann]

F&W had an article about the culinary uses for bitters last year, but I have yet to try one of the recipes. The pork chops, though, sound rather good.
http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/ci...

[coll]

I'm told it is a very good hangover remedy.....

[gourmanda]

Try them in a glass of 7-Up, tonic or soda for a subtle flavor. I've used angostura bitters in the past when cooking beef and still use them often when I'm using fake meat.

Cheers!

[katecm]

The baked goods idea is great. I'd use it in simple flavored baked goods, like citrus. A lemon pound cake with the grapefruit or orange bitter, for example? I also wonder if they might be good in herbal tea, or even in a salad dressing?

[todao]

You can use them in baked goods (cakes, cookies, cupcakes)