The Classic Dirty Martini is a beloved cocktail known for its briny, savory twist on the traditional martini. Perfect for those who appreciate a drink with character, this recipe combines gin and dry vermouth with a splash of olive brine for an extra depth of flavor.
Gin: The cornerstone of any martini, gin provides a botanical base that defines the cocktail. Choose a quality gin you enjoy as its flavor will shine through.
Dry vermouth: This fortified wine adds complexity and depth, softening the gin's boldness. Use a fresh bottle for the best results.
Olive brine: The signature ingredient of a Dirty Martini, the brine introduces a salty, umami element. Adjust the amount to suit your personal taste preferences.
Olives: The classic garnish, olives not only enhance the presentation but also infuse a hint of their flavor into the drink.
A Dirty Martini is best appreciated with a simple appetizer like marinated olives, smoked almonds, or a charcuterie board. Its bold flavors pair well with salty and savory snacks.
Start by filling a mixing glass with ice. This will ensure your drink is well chilled and nicely diluted. Grab your gin, dry vermouth, and olive brine, and measure them out. Pour 2 1/2 oz of gin into the glass, followed by 1/2 oz of dry vermouth. Finally, add 1/2 oz of olive brine. Using a long spoon, stir the mixture thoroughly. This action chills and mixes the ingredients while giving the drink a smooth finish.
Once everything is well combined and icy cold, you're ready to strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass. This step is crucial to achieving the classic martini presentation. Finally, garnish with 2 to 3 olives skewered on a cocktail pick, resting them gently on the glass rim.
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