Strawberry Jalapeno Martini
Jalapenos are the most popular chile peppers in the US. This is probably due to the availability and versatility of the chile. Jalapenos have a balanced combination of flavor and heat.
The demand for these have caused breeders to develop a broad range of varieties. You can now get jalapenos with various heat level and sizes. These can be used in salsas, stuffed, or eaten straight with cheeseburgers (my personal favorite).
Ingredients:
For the Strawberry Simple Syrup (makes enough for 4-6 drinks):
2 c. filtered water
1 c. raw sugar
1 c. organic strawberries
1 capful vanilla extract
1 capful lemon extract
For the Martini:
3-4 oz. vodka
4-5 Tbsp cooled strawberry simple syrup
1 lemon, juiced
4 slices jalapeno (2 each)
1 strawberry, sliced (garnish)
glassful ice
Instructions:
Makes 2 drinks.
Start by making the simple syrup. Bring the water and sugar to a bubble (over medium high heat), turn down to medium heat and stir, occasionally, cooking for another 5 mins.
Next, add the strawberries, let cook on medium heat for 5 more minutes, turn down to medium low and add the extracts.
Cooking for another 10 minutes, smash the strawberries, or for a more smooth consistency, use a hand emerson blender to blend the syrup to a puree like consistency. Or you could let cool and blend in a blender, but be sure not to add it too hot.
Let syrup cool before using it for drinks. I usually can’t wait too long, so I put it in the freezer, I also make sure to pour it over a glassful of ice.
To make the drinks. Add 2 slices jalapeno to each glass. Add the ice, vodka, simple syrup, and 1/2 lemon juiced per drink. Mix by pouring to and from another glass. Serve with strawberry garnish.
From thetalkingkitchen.com