Name: Extra Dry Martini Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1½ oz gin; 1 drop dry vermouth

The extra dry martini is a timeless classic, perfect for those who appreciate the refined taste of a well-crafted cocktail. This sophisticated drink is known for its simplicity and elegance, making it a staple in the world of mixology. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, an extra dry martini is sure to elevate any occasion.

Photos of Extra Dry Martini Recipe

When preparing an extra dry martini, you'll need just two ingredients: gin and dry vermouth. While gin is a common spirit found in most households, dry vermouth might not be as readily available. Make sure to pick up a good quality dry vermouth from your local supermarket or liquor store to ensure the perfect balance of flavors in your martini.

Ingredients for Extra Dry Martini

gin: A distilled alcoholic beverage made from grain and flavored with botanicals, primarily juniper berries.

dry vermouth: A fortified wine flavored with various botanicals, including herbs and spices, which adds a subtle complexity to the martini.

One reader, Kermie Forsyth says:

This extra dry martini is perfection! The balance of gin and just a hint of vermouth creates a crisp, refreshing drink. It's simple yet sophisticated, making it my go-to cocktail for any occasion. Cheers!

Kermie Forsyth

Mastering the Techniques for an Extra Dry Martini

How to shake a cocktail: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, add the ingredients, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. How to strain a cocktail: Use a strainer to pour the liquid from the shaker into a glass, leaving the ice behind.

How To Make Extra Dry Martini

Made with a drop of dry vermouth, this extra dry martini is as dry as it gets! Enjoy the strong herbal notes of gin in this boozy treat.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½ozgin
1dropdry vermouth

Instructions

Shake the gin and dry vermouth in a cocktail shaker with ice.
Strain into a cocktail glass.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 111.89kcal
Carbohydrates: 0.00g
Sugar: 0.00g
Protein: 0.00g
Sodium: 0.85mg
Calcium: 0.00mg
Potassium: 0.06mg
Iron: 0.00mg

One Simple Technique for Elevating Your Extra Dry Martini

To achieve the perfect extra dry martini, make sure to use high-quality gin and dry vermouth. Instead of shaking, try stirring the gin and dry vermouth with ice for about 30 seconds. This method will chill the drink without diluting it too much, resulting in a smoother and more refined cocktail.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Your Martini

Pre-chill your ingredients: Keep your gin and dry vermouth in the freezer so they are already cold, reducing the need for extensive shaking.

Use a jigger: Measure your gin and dry vermouth accurately with a jigger to save time and ensure consistency.

Prepare your glassware: Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer ahead of time to keep your martini cold longer.

Batch your cocktails: If making multiple martinis, pre-measure your gin and dry vermouth for each serving to streamline the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Extra Dry Martini Recipe

gin - Substitute with vodka: Vodka provides a neutral base that allows the other flavors to shine, making it a suitable replacement for gin in a martini.
dry vermouth - Substitute with white wine: A dry white wine can mimic the slightly sweet and herbal notes of dry vermouth, though it may be a bit less intense.

Perfecting the Presentation of Your Martini

Chill the glass: Place your cocktail glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before serving to ensure your martini stays perfectly cold.
Use premium ingredients: Opt for high-quality gin and dry vermouth to elevate the flavor profile of your martini.
Measure precisely: Use a jigger to measure 1½ oz of gin and one drop of dry vermouth to maintain the perfect balance.
Shake with finesse: Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and shake the gin and dry vermouth vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to achieve the ideal chill and dilution.
Strain with care: Use a fine strainer to pour the mixture into your chilled cocktail glass, ensuring a smooth and clear martini.
Garnish elegantly: Add a single olive or a twist of lemon peel to the rim of the glass for a sophisticated touch.
Serve promptly: Present the martini immediately to maintain its optimal temperature and freshness.

Essential Bar Tools for Crafting the Perfect Extra Dry Martini

Cocktail shaker: A cocktail shaker is essential for mixing the gin and dry vermouth with ice to chill and dilute the drink slightly.
Strainer: A strainer is used to separate the ice from the liquid as you pour the martini into the glass, ensuring a smooth, cold drink.
Cocktail glass: A cocktail glass is the traditional serving vessel for a martini, allowing the drinker to appreciate the aroma and presentation.
Jigger: A jigger is a measuring tool used to ensure the precise amount of gin and vermouth is used, maintaining the balance of the cocktail.
Ice: Ice is crucial for chilling the ingredients in the shaker, which helps to blend the flavors and create a refreshing drink.

Surprising Facts About the Extra Dry Martini

A classic extra dry martini is known for its minimal use of dry vermouth, which allows the gin to be the star of the cocktail.

Is Making an Extra Dry Martini at Home Cost-Effective?

The extra dry martini recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With only gin and a drop of dry vermouth, the ingredients are minimal and affordable. A standard bottle of gin costs around $20-$30, and dry vermouth is about $10. Given that each martini uses just 1½ oz of gin and a drop of vermouth, a single bottle can make numerous servings. For a household of 4, the approximate cost would be around $2-$3 per serving. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is an Extra Dry Martini Healthy or Unhealthy?

The extra dry martini recipe, while a classic cocktail, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

High alcohol content: With 1½ oz of gin and only a drop of vermouth, this drink has a high alcohol concentration. Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can lead to various health issues, such as liver damage, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of certain cancers.
Low in nutrients: The ingredients in this recipe offer little to no nutritional value. Gin is a distilled spirit that lacks essential vitamins and minerals, and vermouth is a fortified wine with minimal nutritional benefits.
Empty calories: The calories in this drink come solely from alcohol, providing no essential nutrients. Consuming empty calories can contribute to weight gain and other health problems when consumed in excess.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of gin to 1 oz and increase the vermouth to ½ oz. This will lower the overall alcohol content while maintaining the martini's flavor profile.
Opt for a high-quality, organic gin that is free from artificial additives and preservatives. Some craft gins even incorporate botanicals with potential health benefits, such as juniper berries, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Garnish your martini with a twist of lemon or a small skewer of antioxidant-rich olives. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also provide a small boost of nutrients.
Consider enjoying your martini as an occasional treat rather than a regular indulgence. Moderation is key when it comes to consuming alcoholic beverages.
Pair your martini with a balanced meal that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to ensure you're getting the nutrients your body needs.

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on the Extra Dry Martini

This extra dry martini recipe is a minimalist's dream, highlighting the purity of the gin. However, shaking the ingredients can dilute the drink and create unwanted ice shards. Stirring with ice would better preserve the martini's clarity and texture. The single drop of dry vermouth is a bold choice, emphasizing the gin's botanicals, but consider a lemon twist or olive garnish to add a subtle layer of complexity.

Enhance Your Extra Dry Martini Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine the earthy aroma of mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cheese, herbs, and a hint of garlic. These bite-sized delights are the perfect companion to your extra dry martini, offering a burst of flavor with every bite.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: Prosciutto-Wrapped Melon: The sweet juiciness of melon wrapped in the salty embrace of prosciutto creates a harmonious balance of flavors. This elegant and refreshing side-dish will elevate your martini experience to new heights.

Smoked Salmon Canapés: Smoked Salmon Canapés: Delicate slices of smoked salmon atop crisp cucumber rounds, garnished with a dollop of cream cheese and a sprinkle of dill. These canapés are a sophisticated and delightful pairing for your martini.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. This classic Italian appetizer brings a burst of freshness and flavor that complements the crispness of your martini.

Mini Caprese Skewers: Mini Caprese Skewers: Skewers of cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze. These colorful and tasty bites are a delightful and visually appealing addition to your martini.

Discover Delightful Alternatives to the Classic Extra Dry Martini

Classic Negroni: Classic Negroni: A timeless cocktail that combines gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Stirred to perfection and garnished with an orange twist, this drink is a symphony of bitter and sweet.

Gin Gimlet: Gin Gimlet: A refreshing blend of gin and lime juice, sweetened with a touch of simple syrup. This cocktail is both tart and sweet, perfect for a summer evening.

French 75: French 75: A sophisticated mix of gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, topped with champagne. This sparkling cocktail is ideal for celebrations and special occasions.

Tom Collins: Tom Collins: A classic cocktail featuring gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and club soda. Served over ice with a lemon slice and cherry garnish, it's a refreshing choice for any time of day.

Why trust this Extra Dry Martini Recipe:

This extra dry martini recipe is a classic, trusted by bartenders worldwide. Using just gin and a hint of dry vermouth, it delivers a crisp, clean taste that martini lovers crave. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures a pure, unadulterated flavor, while the precise measurements guarantee consistency. Perfect for both novice and experienced cocktail enthusiasts, this recipe is a testament to the timeless elegance of a well-made martini.

Share your thoughts and experiences with the Extra Dry Martini Recipe in the Cooking Techniques forum.

FAQ:

Can I stir the martini instead of shaking it?

Absolutely! Stirring the martini instead of shaking it will give you a smoother, clearer drink. Just make sure to stir it well with ice to chill it properly.

What type of gin should I use?

You can use any gin you like, but a high-quality London dry gin is a classic choice for an extra dry martini. Experiment with different brands to find your favorite.

How do I measure a drop of dry vermouth?

A drop of dry vermouth is literally just a drop. You can use a dropper or even dip a toothpick into the vermouth and then into the gin. The idea is to keep it minimal.

Can I add a garnish to my martini?

Definitely! A classic garnish for an extra dry martini is a lemon twist or an olive. Feel free to add whichever you prefer or even both.

Should I use a specific type of ice?

Using large, clear ice cubes is ideal because they melt slower and won't dilute your martini as quickly. If you don't have large ice cubes, regular ones will work just fine.