If you enjoy alcoholic beverages, you’ve probably considered mixing some martinis at home. There are many to choose from, so here are six well-received martinis you can make at home with easily found ingredients.
1. Espresso Martini
Great for a pick-me-up, this drink is usually espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur. There are many different coffee liqueurs you can use, so choose what is readily available. If you like Absolut coffee drinks, consider using this brand to make your espresso martini. When adding espresso, you can use a coffee machine if you have one. You can also use cold brew concentrate. The idea is to keep the ingredients chilled and don’t dilute your beverage. When finished adding the liquids, consider garnishing with coffee beans to create a picture-perfect look.
2. Classic Martini
There are several different stories as to how the drink came about. Also called a dry martini, this classic calls for gin and vermouth with a few orange bitters and lemon twists. It is usually called dry because of the small amount of vermouth used. However, there are many variations available; it just depends on what sort of taste you enjoy. You can make this cocktail shaken or stirred or switch up the alcohol used. As with any cocktail, your drink will only be as good as the ingredients you use, so choose the best quality that you can.
3. Dirty Martini
Sometimes controversial, the dirty martini is another well-known martini variation. This one calls for gin or vodka, vermouth, and olive brine. This cocktail is a go-to choice for those who like savory cocktails. You can even eat the olive garnish when you finish the drink. This cocktail is easy to make and only requires a handful of ingredients. Just stir the ingredients together, strain into a chilled glass, and add your garnish.
4. Vodka Martini
While some argue an actual martini contains gin, vodka martinis are still popular with many people. This cocktail includes vodka, vermouth, orange bitters, and a lemon twist garnish. You need to stir the ingredients in a glass with ice for about 25 seconds and then strain the drink into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon, and you are finished.
5. Smoky Martini
A smoky martini is a departure from the classic martini. Instead of using vermouth, you use scotch. This cocktail isn’t for the faint of heart, as it does pack a punch. You can use affordable or higher quality spirits, depending on your budget. The thing to keep in mind when choosing a gin and scotch is how well they taste together. It may take some trial and error to get the combination just right. The drink is simple and easy to make, as it only requires three ingredients. Use gin, blended Scotch whisky, and a lemon twist for a garnish. Add the liquids into a mixing glass with ice, and stir. Next, strain into a martini glass and add the garnish.
6. Breakfast Martini
This martini is unusual as it combines gin, orange liqueur, lemon juice, and orange marmalade. People that like a sweet and tart taste will appreciate this drink. However, while the beverage does have a breakfast theme, you can enjoy it in the evening as well. Add the ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake well. Then, strain the mixture into a glass and garnish with a lemon wheel.
There are dozens of different martini combinations out there. These are five popular variations that can easily be made at home to enjoy. Also, keep in mind that you can customize your drink however you like and with whatever ingredients you have. However, for best taste, use quality ingredients.