I am a very big fan of cilantro, I even grow my own I use so much of it. Cilantro is a strong flavor and people either love it or hate it. I've never known anyone to shrug and say they can take it or leave it. (Turns out there's actually a genetic reason for this.)
This martini reminds me a little of a Gimlet, the lime is a co-star but, of course, secondary to the cilantro. The muddled cilantro infuses it's distinctive aroma and flavor into the mix when muddled with the lime juice and sugar in the shaker. It's a sublime and surprising experience for cilantro lovers.
I don't strain my Cilantro Martini at all, I love the little bits of cilantro that float around in the martini visually as well as enjoying those little bits of bursting flavor on my palate.
I truly love this martini, I find it a nice change from all the sweet and creamy martinis often requested of me and I treat myself often. I even do it in a version with ginger and with dill, but this one remains my favorite.
The
CILANTRO
MARTINI
INGREDIENTS
Handful Fresh Cilantro
Juice of 1/2 Fresh Lime
3 Tsp. Sugar
2 Oz. Vodka
Splash of Soda
Garnish: Sprig of Cilantro, Lime Twist
DIRECTIONS
Add the cilantro, lime juice and sugar to a cocktail shaker and muddle to release the herb oils and dissolve the sugar.
Add ice cubes then pour in the vodka and shake until chilled.
Add a splash of soda and pour into a chilled cocktail glass.
