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Kokum Martini Cocktail Recipe
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Kokum Martini Nutrition Facts
Calories:210
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:15g
Alcohol:14%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: January 7, 2024
Contents
History
The Kokum Martini is a unique and refreshing twist on the classic martini, inspired by the flavors of India. The star ingredient, kokum, is a fruit native to the western coastal regions of India and is known for its tangy and slightly sweet taste. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with new flavors and appreciate the fusion of traditional and modern mixology.
How Kokum Martini Tastes?
The Kokum Martini has a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and tangy flavors. The fruity notes of the kokum blend beautifully with the herbal undertones of the gin, while the lime juice adds a refreshing zing. The overall taste is light, crisp, and invigorating.
Interesting facts about Kokum Martini
- Kokum is a fruit native to India and is known for its numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion and acting as an antioxidant.
- The Kokum Martini is a modern fusion cocktail that combines traditional Indian flavors with classic mixology techniques.
- This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with new flavors and appreciate the fusion of traditional and modern mixology.
Ingredients
- Gin: 2 oz(60ml)
- Kokum syrup: 1 oz(30ml)
- Fresh lime juice: 0.5 oz(15ml)
- Ice: As needed
- Garnish: Lime wheel
A few good options for Kokum Martini are:
- Brockmans
- Silent Pool Gin
- Hendrick's Gin
Gin
Gin is the spirit backbone of our martini. It provides a complex botanical profile that can range from juniper-forward to more floral or herbal expressions. Using 2 oz ensures a robust yet balanced flavor that doesn’t overwhelm the kokum's unique taste. Too much gin could turn your drink into a juniper juice fest, and too little? Well, you might as well call it kokum limeade. A possible alternative like vodka would give a cleaner taste, letting the kokum shine more.
Alex Green
Kokum Syrup
Kokum syrup brings a sweet and tangy taste that is quintessential in a Kokum Martini. It contrasts against the botanicals in gin and freshness of lime. If we skip this, we lose the cocktail's heart and its name, as it’ll no longer be a Kokum Martini! Use less, and it won't stand up against the gin; use more, and it might just overpower everything else. As an alternative, tamarind syrup could offer a similar tang with a hint more sweetness.
Mary Mitkina
Fresh Lime Juice
Lime juice adds that necessary zing and brightness to lift the flavors and balance the sweetness of the syrup. Half an ounce is enough to cut through without turning the drink into a sour pucker-fest. No lime means the drink could end up feeling flat; too much, and it might become a lime-ony sideshow. If limes are out of reach, lemon juice could substitute for a different kind of tartness.
Emma Rose
Ice
Ice is our undercover chill agent; it cools and dilutes the cocktail to perfection. Without it, the martini wouldn’t be served 'shaken' or 'stirred' to that crisp, icy finish. Just the right amount ensures a smooth, cold cocktail; too little won’t chill it enough, and too much could water down the party.
Alex Green
Garnish: Lime Wheel
The garnish isn’t just a fancy hat for your drink; it's the final touch that adds a bit of charm and an extra hint of citrus aroma. Without it, your cocktail could still pass muster, but it might miss that Instagram-worthy look and subtle scent that completes the sensory experience.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Kokum Martini Drink
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add 2 oz of gin, 1 oz of kokum syrup, and 0.5 oz of fresh lime juice to the shaker.
- Shake well until chilled and combined.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a lime wheel on the rim of the glass.
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality gin for the best flavor.
- Make sure to use fresh lime juice for a brighter and more refreshing taste.
- Chill the martini glass before pouring the cocktail to ensure the drink stays cold.
Perfect Pairings
Appetizers
- Grilled seafood: The acidity of the lime juice and the tanginess of the kokum would complement the smokiness of grilled shrimp or calamari.
- Spicy Indian snacks: The sweetness of the kokum syrup can counterbalance the heat from snacks like samosas or pakoras.
- Cheese platter: Opt for mild cheeses, as the gin’s botanicals will harmoniously blend with the creaminess.
Main Courses
- Tandoori chicken: The bold spices of the dish are balanced by the cocktail's refreshing tartness.
- Pan-seared fish: A light and flaky fish like sole would pair nicely, as the cocktail won’t overpower its delicate flavor.
Desserts
- Fruit tarts: The citrus notes in the cocktail will echo the tartness of the fruit, creating a pleasant continuation of flavors.
- Dark chocolate: Chocolate and kokum can create a surprisingly delightful contrast, especially with darker varieties.
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What you could change in Kokum Martini
- If kokum syrup is unavailable, you can use a combination of pomegranate molasses and tamarind paste as a substitute.
- For a non-alcoholic version, replace the gin with tonic water or soda water.
Explore all drinks starting with K here
And of course - twists🍹
Spiced Kokum Martini
Add a pinch of ground cardamom to the shaker before shaking. The spice will introduce a warm, aromatic depth that harmonizes with the gin's botanicals and kokum's tanginess. Garnish with a star anise for an exotic twist.
Kokum Martini with a Herbaceous Twist
Muddle a few fresh basil leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. Basil's fresh, peppery flavor will complement the botanicals in gin and add a garden-fresh nuance to the cocktail.
Tropical Kokum Martini
Swap out the gin for coconut rum. The coconut rum will bring a tropical sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tangy kokum, transforming the martini into a beachy escape. Garnish with a small slice of coconut or a tropical flower for full vacation vibes.
In case you forgot basics how to make Kokum Martini
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Kokum Martini
What is the origin of the name 'Martini'?
The martini is believed to have evolved from a cocktail called the Martinez served sometime in the early 1860s. The Martinez cocktail is named after the California Gold Rush town of Martinez, which is where it was reputedly first concocted.
What other cocktails can I make with gin?
Gin is an incredibly versatile spirit for cocktails. Some other popular gin-based cocktails include the Gin & Tonic, the Tom Collins, the Negroni, and the Gin Fizz.
Can I use a different type of garnish if I don't have a lime wheel?
Yes, you can garnish your cocktail with other citrus fruits such as a lemon slice or orange peel. Just ensure that the garnish complements the flavors of your cocktail.
I've never tried kokum before. What other cocktails can I make with it?
Kokum is not a common ingredient in cocktails, but its sweet-tart flavor can be used in a variety of drinks. Try it in place of lemon or lime in a Gin Sour, or add it to a Mojito for a unique twist.
What type of glassware is best for serving martinis?
Martini cocktails are typically served in a martini glass, which is a stemmed glass with a wide, inverted cone bowl.
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