What method is used to prepare a Side Car cocktail?

The Side Car cocktail is traditionally prepared using the shake/strain method. This technique involves combining ingredients with ice in a cocktail shaker, shaking it to chill and mix the components thoroughly, and then straining the mixture into a glass, typically a coupe or cocktail glass. This method is essential for cocktails like the Side Car, where the balance of flavors is important, and the chilling effect is needed to create a refreshing drink experience.

In contrast, the pour method involves simply pouring ingredients directly into a glass without shaking or stirring, which would not achieve the desired texture and cooling for a Side Car. The blend method incorporates a blender to mix ingredients, typically used for frozen drinks or cocktails that require a smooth consistency. The layer method, on the other hand, is used to create distinct layers of liquids in a drink, often based on density, which is not applicable to a classic cocktail like the Side Car. Thus, the shake/strain method is the correct choice for properly preparing this cocktail.