Lychee Martini

Julia Restoin-Roitfeld declares that her absolute favorite food combination is the sea bass enhanced with a lychee martini at Indochine in the East Village, this is what she always orders when dining there. If you are in the mood for an exotic treat, try the refreshing lychee martini which is inspired by flavors of Asian influence. Lychee trees grow natively in southeast Asia and the fruit bears a slight citrus flavor with floral tones that makes for a delightful drink. Below is a recipe to mix your own lychee martini.

Ingredients

• 3 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce lychee syrup
• 1 ounce Triple Sec
• 4 ice cubes
• 1 or 2 lychees, peeled and pitted

Preparation

1. Add 3 ounces vodka, 1 ounce lychee syrup, 1 ounce Triple Sec, and 4 ice cubes to shaker.
2. Cover and shake.
3. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
4. Garnish with peeled lychees and serve.

Here are a few tips to help you achieve the perfect lychee martini... The quality of the lychee flavor determines the authentic taste of the martini and colors the drink experience. Natural lychee syrup from fresh fruit imparts the best flavor as purists say that lychee liquor can leave a processed taste behind. If fresh lychees are not in season, use lychee juice as a substitute. Garnish with fresh peeled and seeded lychees on a skewer. If you cannot find fresh fruit, frozen or canned lychees will work instead. Dip the rim of the martini glass into crystallized ginger before you pour your drink from the shaker, this unusual mixture lends a distinct oriental zing to the cocktail. If you do not like vodka or prefer a different taste, try soju, sake, or champagne for a twist. Visit lycheesonline.com for more fun lychee recipes.

Lychee martini photograph courtesy of Conexión Brando.

Comments

[Milla]

Nobu in London do a fabulous lychee martini as well. Great taste Julia!

[kellina]

Good to know, Milla, thank you for the heads up. It sure looks savory...