A raspberry martini is the perfect drink for Valentine's Day. Make this awesome cocktail for your special someone and score major brownie points.
I've never been much of a hard liquor. Â drinker, give me a tall glass of wine or an ice cold amber beer any day! But sometimes it's kinda nice to sit back after a busy week and sip on a cocktail if I'm feeling fancy. I have been known to make a few margaritas disappear, like this Blood Orange margarita or if you love cilantro, try my Grapefruit and Cilantro margarita. Both of these go really well with a giant bowl of fresh ceviche!
If I do have a cocktail It has to be the kind that's not too sweet and not so harsh from the liquor, I'm looking at you Mr. Manhattan! I'll pass on the dessert cocktails too, those tiramisu-tini's and mocha cocktails are just like dessert in liquid form. Super sweet and sticky.
What's in a raspberry martini?
But this raspberry martini is almost top level and who doesn't already love raspberries? But do you know what's really cool? Flavored vodka. With so many different flavors available, they'll convert the liquor naysayers like me into permanent cocktail likers.
You don't have to source a bunch of ingredients to make my raspberry martini either. The vodka is the expensive buy, but even that was only $9 and I know I'll use it again in another cocktail. Fresh lime juice and simple syrup to cut the tartness of the raspberries is pretty much all that's in it. You can either buy simple syrup or you can make your own at home, it's really easy and cheap too.
How to make a simple syrup
To make a simple syrup, just boil equal amounts of water and sugar, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved. Be sure to allow it to cool completely before using it. I love adding flavorings to it after the boiling stage. So feel free to steep some fresh herbs, cinnamon or lemon in it. Try adding the flavored syrups to sparkling water for a really refreshing summer drink!
FAQ's about martini making
Gin or vodka, which is better? The classic martini is made with gin but vodka can be easily substituted. Just make sure to have your liquor option ready before you order.
Which is stronger, gin or vodka? Vodka is pretty much the same no matter the brand with an ABV (alcohol by volume) of 40% and proof of 80. Gin can go vary though from 75-94 proof.
Shaken or stirred? Shaking creates air so in a classic martini, that wouldn't be needed. A simple stir is best. Shaken cocktails are for fruit juice based or sweet cocktails.
How much does a martini glass hold? A typical traditional glass holds 8oz, or 1 cup.
