The Dirty Martini is a bold and savory twist on the classic martini. Known for its blend of gin or vodka and briny olive juice, this cocktail is perfect for those who love a flavorful, sophisticated drink. Here’s how to make the perfect Dirty Martini at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ ounces gin or vodka
- ½ ounce dry vermouth
- ½ ounce olive brine (from the olive jar)
- Ice
- Olives for garnish
Instructions:
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Chill the Glass: Fill your martini glass with ice water and set it aside to chill.
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Mix the Drink: In a cocktail shaker, combine gin or vodka, dry vermouth, and olive brine. Adjust the brine to your taste—more for a "dirtier" martini.
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Add Ice: Fill the shaker with ice to chill the mixture.
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Shake or Stir:
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For a shaken martini: Seal the shaker and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
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For a stirred martini: Stir with a spoon for about 30 seconds for a smoother drink.
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Strain and Serve: Discard the ice from the chilled glass and strain the cocktail into the glass.
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Garnish: Add a few green olives on a pick for garnish. You can even add a splash of olive brine if you like your martini extra dirty.
Customization Tips:
- Gin vs. Vodka: Gin adds botanical flavors, while vodka creates a smoother base. Choose according to your preference.
- Olive Brine: Experiment with more or less brine to control how "dirty" the drink is. Some people also add a splash of the brine as a garnish for extra flavor.
The Dirty Martini is the ideal cocktail for those who appreciate a briny, savory taste alongside the crispness of a classic martini. Cheers! 🍸