What better way to end this week than with something strong, and a little sprinkle of pep… Let’s shake up an Espresso Martini!
When I think of martinis, I think of sipping at a small smoky French street-side cafe in the evening, people watching from the curbside tables while everyone brushes off a long day of work. Please, someone take me there! I have tried my had at quite a few martinis, but with the addition of our newest kitchen baby, the Nespresso machine, I had to give this one a try. Turns out its actually quite good, and thats a statement even my anti-coffee husband has made! If you’re running away from this evening drink because it contains caffeine, hold your horses and take a breath, we have modifications here. Let’s shake.
Shopping and Preparation Suggestions
Espresso: If you’re thinking it – stop. No you cannot just substitute with coffee and get away with it. I do highly recommend straight espresso. If you don’t have a machine at home, make a quick coffee run and ask for a couple espresso shots. If you’re at Starbucks they will even give you the most adorable espresso-shot sized cup for your prize. Other than this, the espresso world is your oyster. Take it full-caf, half-caf, or decaf to please. Make it vanilla, hazelnut, Colombian, or whatever flavor your little heart desires. I personally like a decaf or half-caf in the evening, especially if I plan to make more than one, but I do truly enjoy the taste regardless of the level of caffeine. If you’re a Nespresso lover, try Decaffeinato Intenso version, or if you’re feeling a little extra the Diavolitto is ah-mazing here.
Coffee Liqueur: Between you and me, I definitely have a favorite. I’d pick Kaluha every time for this drink, but I’ll let you be the judge. This recipe can be altered in many ways by your choice of coffee liqueur. I have tried it with Rumchata, and with versions of Irish cream Liqueur but for me Kaluha tops them all. It is the only one which leaves the dark espresso color intact, and doesn’t turn it milky. I personally am not a milky or creamed out coffee fan so this might be different for you as well! I did notice that Kaluha also takes away some of the bite of the vodka, opposed to Irish creams and rum chat, but I digress. I know my love but if I ran out I would still drink it the other ways too.
Vodka: Top shelf vodkas are meant for martinis. These drinks are strong and stout, and deserve to be paired with something smooth. Though perhaps not top shelf, I chose to pair with New Amsterdam, but it would go very well with a Grey Goose. Try your hand and do some taste tests until you find your perfectly palated vodka.
Garnish: The STAPLE here are the 3 coffee beans. Each bean traditionally stands for health, wealth, and happiness… are you willing to risk this? You can also top with some whipped cream, cinnamon, or nutmeg if you’re willing to go the extra mile!
Make it a Mocktail!
Shake up the following recipe!
- 2 parts espresso
- 1 part vanilla syrup
- 1 part water
- shake all ingredients and strain into a cocktail glass, garnish with three coffee beans, and whipped cream if so desired!
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Cant wait to see you next time!