If you're a coffee lover who also enjoys a good cocktail, the espresso martini is the perfect drink for you. It's a rich and flavorful cocktail that combines the smoothness of espresso with the boldness of vodka, resulting in a delicious and energizing drink that's perfect for any occasion.
While the origin of the espresso martini is somewhat disputed, it's widely believed to have been created in the late 1980s by a London bartender named Dick Bradsell. According to legend, a customer approached Bradsell and asked for a drink that would "wake her up and f**k her up." Bradsell then combined espresso, vodka, and a touch of sweetness to create the now-famous cocktail.
Today, the espresso martini is a staple at bars and restaurants around the world. However, if you want to enjoy this delicious drink in the comfort of your own home, it's surprisingly easy to make. The only question is: should you shake or stir your espresso martini?
The traditional method for making an espresso martini involves shaking the ingredients together in a cocktail shaker. This method helps to create a foamy, frothy texture that's characteristic of the drink. To make an espresso martini this way, you'll need the following ingredients:
1 shot of espresso (or 1-2 ounces of strongly brewed coffee)
1 1/2 ounces of vodka
1 ounce of Kahlua (or another coffee liqueur)
Ice
Cocktail shaker
To make the drink, start by brewing your espresso or coffee and letting it cool to room temperature. Then, add the espresso, vodka, and Kahlua to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake the ingredients vigorously for 10-15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty. Strain the drink into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a few coffee beans, if desired.
However, some bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts argue that the espresso martini should be stirred rather than shaken. This method can result in a smoother, less frothy texture that's still delicious. To make an espresso martini this way, you'll need the same ingredients as the shaken method, as well as a stirring glass and a bar spoon.
To make the drink, start by adding the vodka and Kahlua to a stirring glass filled with ice. Stir the ingredients gently for 10-15 seconds, then add the espresso or coffee and stir again until the drink is well-combined. Strain the drink into a chilled martini glass and garnish with coffee beans or a twist of lemon, if desired.
So, which method is better for making the perfect espresso martini? Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a frothy, foamy texture and a slightly sweeter flavor, the shaken method may be your best bet. However, if you prefer a smoother, more subtle cocktail with less sweetness, stirring your ingredients together may be the way to go.
Whichever method you choose, making an espresso martini at home is a fun and easy way to enjoy this classic cocktail. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of know-how, you can impress your friends and family with your bartending skills and enjoy a delicious drink at the same time