Go Back
Dirty Martini Cocktail Drink

Dirty Martini Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
3 from 1 vote
Unwind with this straightforward, Dirty Martini recipe! Crafted with vodka or gin, olive brine, and a whisper of dry vermouth, this savory cocktail is a flawless companion for a relaxed evening.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 160

Ingredients
 

  • 2 oz Vodka or Gin
  • 1 tsp olive brine
  • 1 tsp dry Vermouth
  • Ice cubes
  • Olive - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Mixing Glass
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Bar spoon
  • Strainer
  • Martini Glass

Instructions

  • Chill Glass: Place your Martini glass in the freezer or fill it up with ice, to chill.
  • Add Olive Brine: Measure and pour 1 tsp olive brine.
  • Add Dry vermouth: Add 1 tsp dry Vermouth to the mix.
  • Add Spirit: Measure and pour 2 oz Vodka or Gin.
  • Stir Well: Ice up the mixing glass and stir the ingredients with a bar spoon for about 45 revolutions.
  • Strain: Strain the mixture into your chilled Martini glass with no ice.
  • Garnish: Garnish with olives.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Vodka/Gin: I often use gin for its botanical flavor, but vodka works perfectly if you prefer a smoother taste. I've also tried Aquavit for an herbal twist.
  • Olive Brine: If you run out of olive brine, pickle juice can be a fun alternative, giving the drink a unique tang.
  • Dry Vermouth: In a pinch, white wine with a splash of vinegar can replace dry vermouth, altering the drink's character but maintaining its essence.

Making a Pitcher of Dirty Martini:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, use 16 oz of vodka or gin, 8 bar spoons of olive brine, and 8 bar spoons of dry vermouth.
  • Mix: Combine the ingredients in a large ice-filled pitcher and stir well.
  • Serve: Strain the mixture into chilled Martini glasses, garnish with olives, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Vodka/Gin Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic spirit like Seedlip Spice for a complex, aromatic flavor.
  • Proceed As Usual: Replace the alcoholic ingredients with the non-alcoholic substitutes and follow the original steps to enjoy a non-alcoholic Dirty Martini.

Making it Vegan:

  • Vegan Olive Brine: Ensure the olive brine is cured from olives without animal products. Some olives are fermented with whey, so look for brands that specify they are vegan.
  • Vegan Vermouth: Choose a vermouth that doesn't use animal products in the fining process. Many brands are now offering vegan-friendly options.