How to make a Martini: Martini recipe and tips

HOW TO MAKE A MARTINI:
5 EASY STEPS
A martini is basically a combination of gin, vermouth and an olive. When mixed
together in the correct quantities they are a symbol of distinction and excellence.

The secret to a good martini is in the vermouth. Vermouth is a fortified wine flavoured with a mix of botanicals and herbs. There are two kinds of vermouth, one sweet and amber in colour (originating in Italy), the other dry and clear (originating in France). When people ask for a 'dry martini' they mean less vermouth - the less the amount of vermouth the drier the martini.

Ingredients
- Martini Shakers
- Martini Glasses
- Vermouth
- Gin
- Garnishes

Step 1
Fill a Martini Shaker with ice shaved ice.
Step 2
Pour a 1/2oz of Vermouth into the ice
Step 3
Using a long spoon, quickly stir the vermouth in the ice, cover with strainer and pour vermouth down the drain.
Step 4
Pour in 2 1/2oz of your favourite gin or vodka. Stir the liquor quickly but calmly until the shaker becomes cold.
Step 5
Put 1 olive on a cocktail pick and place it into a chilled martini glass. Pour liquor over the olive. Add a hint of dry vermouth.

Basic Martini Recipe
- 2 1/2oz gin or vodka depending on you preference.
- Hint of dry vermouth. A guideline is 8 parts gin or vodka, to 1 part vermouth.

Dirty Martini Recipe
- 2 1/2oz vodka or gin of choice.
- 1/2oz or less of the brine from the cocktail olives depending on how dirty you want the martini to be.

HOW TO MAKE A DIRTY MARTINI: VIDEO TUTORIAL


To Shake or To Stir?
These are two options which are an important step in the process of creating a martini. Both chill, and slightly dilute the liquor making it softer and more pleasant to drink. Stirring however, preserves the clarity of the liquor which many find appealing. I prefer to shake as I enjoy the thin flecks of ice that form on top - it is also a lot more fun to make. Try them both to find the option that appeals to you.

MARTINI TIPS:
You will need lots of vodka and/or gin. It is worth investing in the better brands as you will be able to taste the difference in your martini.
Like wine, vermouth has a short shelf life when opened. It is therefor better to buy a small bottle of vermouth which needs to be kept refrigerated.
Invest in some steel or glass martini shakers. Try to find ones that you can also stir drinks in.

You are now well on your way to creating that perfect martini!

View our cocktail measurements conversion table for oz, ml, shots, cups etc.

If you want to know more about the basic martini and it's variations these books are a good place to start.



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