A Lewis bag is a heavy canvas sack designed to hold ice. You fill it with ice cubes, fold the top over, and pound it firmly with a wooden mallet or rolling pin until the ice is crushed to the desired consistency. The canvas absorbs some of the moisture and keeps the crushed ice dry rather than wet. It's the simplest, most reliable way to make crushed ice at home without a commercial ice machine.
Why It Matters
Crushed ice is essential for Mint Juleps, Swizzles, and Caipirinhas. A blender can work but often produces uneven results. The Lewis bag gives you control over the final texture.
Where You'll Use It
Any recipe calling for crushed ice.